1974 Jaguar XJ12 L

Highlights

  • Genuine low mileage of only 28,474 miles
  • Show winner and holder of numerous Jaguar Driver's Club awards
  • Huge history file 
  • All-original paintwork
  • Time warp condition
  • 5.3 litre v12

The Appeal

It’s not often one gets to witness a special car that has been preserved as it should. Frequently, at some point during their long life and string of owners, it’s common that someone could have either mistreated or neglected it. Well, quite the opposite is true of this Jaguar XJ12L. In fact, it can only be described as in time warp condition. 
With just a handful of owners over the years, two of which had it for 18 years each, it has been treated almost as one of the family, with every effort made to keep the historical paperwork in order, almost as if you were preserving old letters from a childhood penpal. It’s a beautiful thing to witness, as this XJ12’s rarity and condition alone are enough to get excited about, but with its impeccable history file, it makes it almost too good an opportunity to let pass. 
The ‘L’ refers to the car’s long wheelbase, providing extra legroom for rear passengers. It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cars of its era, with those sleek lines, elegant curves and distinctive front grille. Under the bonnet you’ll find a 5.3 litre V12 engine producing 244 bhp and 282 lb-ft of torque, a marvel of engineering, producing smooth and effortless power while maintaining a refined and luxurious driving experience. 
 

The History and Paperwork

  • Supplied new in 1974
  • V5c present 
  • Genuine documented mileage of only 24,474 miles
  • All-original paintwork with no recorded changes
  • Multiple show winner
  • Owner’s manual, service book, original wiring diagrams present
  • Excellent service history with large file of invoices and receipts
  • Many MOT certificates going back through the years
  • MOT expires 17/6/23
  • 2 keys
  • Spare wheel, jack and brace
 

The Interior

  • Original green leather interior in fabulous condition throughout
  • No rips, tears or marks on the sumptuous seats
  • The cabin oozes that wonderful air of Jaguar luxury, crafted with high quality materials
  • Dashboard and trim present incredibly well, the only minor imperfection noticeable is a crack on the glove box 
  • Electric windows
  • Central locking
  • Air conditioning
  • All gauges and electrics work as they should
  • Door cards in excellent shape
  • Carpets all in very good condition
  • Clean carpeted boot with full-size spare alloy wheel
 

The Exterior

  • Original British Racing Green paintwork is in outstanding condition
  • Minute dent above headlight to offside front wing – hardly noticeable
  • Tiny dent to the chrome on the driver’s quarter window as shown in the pictures
  • Two minor scratches on the roof. These have been left where they are in order to preserve the originality of the car
  • In truly fantastic condition 
  • Tyres all have plenty of tread
  • Original wheels look immaculate
  • Lights all work and are free from any cracks or damage
  • Wing mirrors and trim all present well including the door handles and the bumpers
 

The Mechanics

  • 5.4 litre V12 engine
  • 3-speed automatic gearbox
  • Clean engine bay with original stickers
  • Great service history
  • All electrics reported to function correctly
  • The vendor advises that the car is an absolute joy to drive. Pulls beautifully through the gears and handles impeccably. It is in fine mechanical shape, starting on the button with no issues to report 
 

The Summary

Normally a car in such condition would be a popular choice for any collector or Jaguar enthusiast, but this one stands head and shoulders above so many others. Its genuine rarity is sure to attract a lot of interest, but perhaps more importantly, it’s the significance a car like this holds as representing the pinnacle of British automotive engineering and design. 
 Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

Vehicle specification
  • Year 1974
  • Make Jaguar
  • Model XJ12 L
  • Colour Green
  • Odometer 28,474 Miles
  • Engine size 5343
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Faringdon
  • Location Oxfordshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
21 bids
  • Ba•••• £20,000 17/04/23
  • r-•••• £18,000 17/04/23
  • r-•••• £15,750 17/04/23
  • rj•••• £15,500 17/04/23
  • r-•••• £15,000 17/04/23
  • rj•••• £14,500 17/04/23
  • r-•••• £13,500 17/04/23
  • Ba•••• £12,500 17/04/23
  • si•••• £11,500 17/04/23
  • Ba•••• £11,000 16/04/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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