Making its debut in 1968, the Jaguar XJ6 saloon, featuring entirely new bodywork, was propelled by the straight six, twin cam XK type engine, offered in 2.8- and 4.2-litre capacities.

Providing a ride quality felt by many to be unequalled at the time, plus impressive handling and road-holding for a large saloon, independent coil spring suspension was installed at the back and the front. Servo-assisted, dual circuit brakes help to tame these big cats.

All 4.2-litre versions, plus De Luxe variants of the 2.8 models, came with power-assisted steering and leather upholstery. In all versions the interiors were sumptuously appointed and instrumentation was comprehensive.

An even more 'upmarket' Daimler version – designated Sovereign and with a traditional style, fluted 'Daimler' grille, joined the line-up in October 1969.

Minor changes were made during 1969/70, but of major importance was the arrival of the XJ12 (and equivalent Daimler 'Double Six') in the summer of 1972. With Jaguar's superb 5.3-litre V12 power unit under the bonnet, these smooth-running high performers also featured automatic transmission, ventilated front disc brakes, power-assisted steering and high speed Dunlop tyres.

Long wheelbase versions of the XJ12 (XJ12L) and XJ6 (XJ6L) were introduced late in 1972, with a wheelbase four inches longer than the standard cars, providing improved rear seat leg room.

In mid-1973 the 2.8-litre models came to the attack the end of their production road, and Series 2 XJs (identifiable by shallower grilles, higher-mounted front bumpers and restyled facias) arrived in the autumn of the same year. Standard equipment was impressive, and included central locking, electrically operated windows, an improved heating/ventilation system, and extra soundproofing.

Especially sleek two-door fixed head coupés were introduced for 1974; the 12 cylinder version (XJ12C) had standard-fit tinted glass and air conditioning. Overdrive became part of the specification on manual 4.2-litre models in February 1974.

 From May 1975 this model was designated XJ4.2, and was joined by a new variant, with a 3442cc XK engine. This newcomer was designed to be cheaper to buy and to run, incorporating cloth trim instead of leather, and lacking both electrically operated windows and central locking.

During the spring of 1975, fuel-injected versions of the XJ12C (fitted with a black vinyl roof) and XJ12L arrived. Manual models were equipped with five-speed transmissions from September 1978.

The spring of 1979 saw further range revisions, including restyled roof and rear end profiles; the updated models were designated 'Series 3'. Buyers of the 3.4-litre 'entry level' model benefited from new trim, pile carpets, a stereo system and fuel injection.

Significantly, in the summer of 1981, 'High Efficiency' ('HE') engines were installed in the V12 versions, together with a higher ratio final drive unit. The result was usefully improved fuel consumption.

A headlamp wash/wipe system, plus an electrically controlled sun roof and twin door mirrors (also electrically operated) were standard features. At the same time, the six cylinder models gained a larger cooling fan and oil cooler.

The autumn of 1982 saw interior changes, and a year later, the introduction of high specification 'Sovereign' versions. On 4.2 litre models, a trip computer, air conditioning and electrically adjustable front seats were standard features. Digital fuel injection, cruise control and air conditioning were additional refinements on the 5.3HE.

New XJ6/Sovereign models (powered by AJ6 type engines) replaced the earlier versions in October 1986, although the V12 variants continued in production...

THE REALITY
These lovely machines have always been revered for their wonderful ride comfort, their spacious and beautifully crafted interiors and roomy boots, plus of course, their impressive performance.

All versions are competent in terms of their dynamic behaviour, and all are enjoyable to own, although pre-HE V12 models consume fuel at quite a rate. As classic cars they can be an excellent choice and