Description
Coming to auction at Wilton House for the Concours Des Legendes, 19-21 June, full catalogue now online, search Dore & Rees Motoring for further info.
1971 Jaguar XJ6 Series 1 4. 2 SWB Saloon
Registration Number: GPL 734K
Chassis Number: 1L19745BW
Recorded Mileage: c. 42, 000 miles
- Formerly in single ownership for 34 years
- Genuine low ownership, low mileage example in super condition
The first example of the XJ model was known as the project number XJ4 internally, which emerged as the 1968 Jaguar XJ Series I. Lyons oversaw the bodywork and styling of the new vehicle with the idea of replacing the E-type with a GT 4 seat model for the American market, following the popular trends for the region. Both front and rear ends were inspired by the E-type with a 2 door version. As the work progressed on the new model, it was decided that the addition of rear doors was necessary, along with a shortening of the front and rear ends with enhancements to the grille and the inclusion of four headlights. Engineering was directed by Bob Knight, the genius behind Jaguar’s independent rear suspension. For the new model, he modified the design which was used to achieve both ride comfort and top notch handling on the road.
The new model made its debut just prior to the London Motor Show on September 26 of 1968. It was advertised as Jag’s best saloon car that embodied sportiness, comfort, performance and style. The final version presented to the world featured a base model with a 2. 8 litre engine with a lower price that was minus the leather trim. The 4. 2 engine as a straight six with twin carbs, was moderately priced for its class, and with a healthy 245bhp could reach 0-60 in 9 seconds with a top speed of 124mph. It was available with a four speed manual gearbox or an automatic. It won “Car of the Year” in Britain, but was not considered for the European distinction overall. These models cleared production lines and didn’t spend much time on showroom floors as their popularity soared.
First road registered in the autumn of 1971, this very genuine example was specified in Sable with a tan leather interior and the optional 3-speed Borg-Warner automatic transmission. The car was sold by Clarke's of Pirbright to manufacturing business James Walker & Co. of Woking, Surrey, being retained by the business until the Jaguar was sold into private ownership in 1978.
The next keepers, Paul & Ian Cain, kept the XJ6 for a further 34 years, regularly exhibiting at Jaguar Driver's Club events in their ownership. The Jaguar was finally sold to a Mr. John Pape in 2012, being lovingly maintained until 2022 when it was purchased by the most recent owner from respected classic car dealer Hurst Park Automobiles Ltd for the sum of £26, 500.
Showing just in the region of 42, 000 miles from new, this highly original example has in the recent past been fitted with a replacement roof lining, and the paintwork professionally ceramic coated to protect it for many years to come.
This wonderful Jaguar is offered complete with its original handbook pack containing the factory 'Passport to Service' book, previous registration documents, MoT certificates, and a quantity of other invoices and papers. By far the most practical in the range to own, this super smooth 4. 2 litre Series One has become the most desirable XJ6 model to own in recent years, with values starting to eclipse those of its predecessor, the Mark II. An extremely stylish and now rare classic, which is surprisingly modern and comfortable to drive.
