Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- One of only 720 SWB RHD V12 Series 1 cars
- Significant recent mechanical, suspension and welding work
- Recent full service and starts at first turn of key
- Gunmetal Grey metallic, blue leather and Webasto roof
- Interior veneers fully refurbished in 2022
The Appeal
Starting with a plan to create a four door E-Type, Jaguar created arguably one of the best and most beautiful saloons of the last 50 years. The XJ was a considerable achievement, a car that rode better than a Rolls-Royce and was more characterful than a Mercedes-Benz.
Three years into production Jaguar trumped the competition again with its new V12 engine. Just 720 right hand drive SWB Jaguar XJ12s were built before the Series 2 arrived in 1973 and this example is one of the last – car number 544.
Refinished in Gunmetal Grey metallic, surely one of the best Jaguar colours, it benefits from significant recent investment by the vendor since 2019. What sets good early XJs apart is the quality of their ride and running, so it is encouraging to learn that this extensive work covered the mechanicals and suspension. The interior was also spruced up. It then completed the 500 mile Three Castles Road Rally across North Wales without issue. There are a couple of minor cabin jobs to attend to, but neither are urgent.
Smart, solid and very usable, it is ready to introduce the buyer to the superlative qualities of these magnificent classic British saloons.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in the UK on 2nd May 1973
- VIN records show this is car number 544 of the 720 RHD SWB Series 1 V12s
- One of only 348 1973 model year XJ12 SWB RHD cars
- 10 owners from new and owned by vendor twice since 2019
- He acquired it in 2019, sold it in 2022 and reacquired it in 2023
- Was previously Lavender Blue, which was changed on 26th November 1998
- Recently completed a 500 mile classic road rally without issue
- Vendor advises that the headlining needs replaced and ideally the front seats refurbished
- Significant recent work undertaken by the vendor since 2019 detailed below
- Last MOT expired on 25th October 2023 with no advisories on last test
- Has covered very few miles since last MOT test
Investment by the vendor since 2019, also recorded in photographs:
- Engine out to enable full rebuild of front suspension using OEM parts
- Both fuel tanks replaced with new items
- Rear subframe removed, renovated and repainted
- Differential serviced
- Full service in 2019 and then again in 2023
- New rear tyres fitted in 2019 with few miles since
- Dashboard and door capping veneers refurbished
- Dials recalibrated and checked to ensure all work correctly
- Further engine work undertaken in 2023
- Water pump replaced
- Welding to floors
The Condition
- Originally painted Lavender Blue, refinished in popular Gunmetal Grey metallic in 1998
- Paintwork finished to high standard and presents in very good order
- Bodywork similar no visible corrosion to panels, particularly common XJ12 noteworthy areas
- Factory standard car including popular chromed steel rims which are in good order
- Lights, glasswork and tyres are well presented and with no issues to report
- Structural in good order with no notable issues and no advisories on recent MOT
- New OEM V12 fitted – note that some photographs predate its fitment
- Good chromework with no visible tarnishing or damage to report
- Smart dark blue leather interior with refurbished rear bench and original front seats
- Front seats are well kept but could be refurbished to bring up to standard of rest of the car
- Headlining removed by vendor so will require replacement, a relatively easy job
- Webasto full length sunroof a particularly appealing feature
- Retains its early and stylish Series 1 interior including aluminium trim and central auxiliary dials
- We are told it is supplied with a period Radiomobile 8 track stereo which works correctly
- Carpets and boot trim in good order and factory correct
- Veneer door cappings and dashboard unique to Series 1 and refurbished in 2019
The Mechanics
- Early 5,343cc V12 Jaguar engine with quartet of SU carburettors
- Three speed automatic gearbox
- Extensive work to suspension and mechanicals as detailed above
- Photographic record of this work
- This will likely ensure that this early Series 1 rides exactly as it should
- Which is surely a key part of this sumptuous car’s appeal
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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