1973 Jaguar XJ12 SWB

Vendor supplied photos 

Highlights


  • Early and rare SWB example of the Series I XJ12
  • Solid dry-state import for restoration
  • UK registered with all NOVA and duties settled
  • Complete and structurally appears sound

THE APPEAL


A V12 was always part of the original vision for the Jaguar XJ launch line-up, but a lack of initial budget meant that fans of the stylish saloon had to wait almost four years before the ultimate example appeared.

The high-performance XJ12 was announced in July 1972 alongside the mechanically identical Daimler Double Six, featuring a flatter and less stylised radiator grille, and powered by Jaguar's 5.3-litre V12 engine that had earned its wings thus far in the Series 3 E-Type. It was offered only with GM’s Borg-Warner Model 12 transmission.

At the time of its launch, the XJ12 was the only mass-produced 12-cylinder, four-door car in production and according to Jaguar’s sales literature, was the "fastest full four-seater available in the world".

This one is a dry-state USA car, originally supplied by Jaguar’s import agent in New York to a dealer in the southern states. It’s a project with a big job list attached to it, but is critically solid in all of the important areas. 




THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK


  • Manufactured in April 1973 and dispatched from Browns Lane on May 15
  • Supplied to Jaguar Concessionaires in New York and supplied via its dealer network to a dry southern state
  • Imported to the UK in 2023
  • Full UK V5C just issued – registered as VNP 953L
  • NOVA declaration complete and all import duties settled
  • Jaguar Heritage Certificate



THE INTERIOR


  • Biscuit hide leather seats in poor overall condition – driver’s seat is split and damaged and rear armrest has sun rot. Other seats may be salvageable but there will be trimming work required
  • Carpets and roof lining in fair order – most likely resuable
  • Door trims and side panels also appear to be retrievable
  • Dashboard veneers are faded but wood dash is in generally straight order
  • Some small cracks to upper dash top
  • Door pulls (not attached) are included
  • Original push-button radio
  • Electric windows (untested)
  • Air conditioning (untested)
  • Left-hand-drive
  • Will require more or less complete interior overhaul



THE EXTERIOR 


  • Original Regency Red paint is substantially faded, but areas may be recoverable
  • Critically, the car appears to be very solid underneath with no major structural problems
  • Original steel sports wheels but centre caps are missing
  • Sills and exterior panels in apparently sound order
  • Genuine V12 grille
  • Side marker lights as per US regulations
  • Most chrome and trim is present with some pitting to brightwork
  • Centre part of rear bumper is absent



THE MECHANICS 


  • 5.3-litre V12
  • Appears complete 
  • Will need new fuel tank
  • Three-speed Borg Warner auto
  • Currently a non-runner – the engine turns and is not seized so the mechanical condition is unknown
  • Potential buyers should assume a comprehensive mechanical overhaul may be required



SUMMARY


There are two ways to look at this car. The first is as a great source of panels and parts, as well as a V12 engine. The second, and more exciting, is as a project car to return to its former glory, and being a rare short-wheelbase in apparently solid order there’s a lot of potential here. A lot of work, too, but the great thing is that none of it appears to be structural. It’s no weekend project, but it’s not a basket case either…

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.

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1973
  • Make Jaguar
  • Model XJ12
  • Colour Regency Red
  • Odometer 60,000 Miles
  • Engine size 5343
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Halifax
  • Location Yorkshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
14 bids from 5 bidders
  • An•••• £1,400 21/09/23
  • pa•••• £1,300 21/09/23
  • An•••• £1,200 21/09/23
  • J.•••• £1,100 21/09/23
  • pa•••• £1,000 21/09/23
  • J.•••• £900 21/09/23
  • pa•••• £800 21/09/23
  • J.•••• £700 21/09/23
  • pa•••• £600 21/09/23
  • Jo•••• £500 21/09/23

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