THE STORY Manufactured by Jaguar Cars in Coventry, England between 1973 and 1979, the Jaguar XJ Series II was the manufacturer’s flagship 4-door model and an impressive luxury salon for its time crammed full of refined features and creature comforts.
From 1974 onwards, all cars became the long wheel base variant (“L”) which gave the cabin an extra 10cm of cabin length. Series II cars received a substantial upgrade at the time including simplified heating and air conditioning systems with climate control.
These rear-wheel drive cars were powered by either Jaguar’s 3.4 litre or 4.2 litre inline 6-cylinder engine. The smaller engines were carburetted whereas the larger 4.2 litre was coupled to a Lucas-Bosch fuel injected system in later years.
Transmissions were a Borg Warner 3-speed automatic, there were power assisted disc brakes all round.
Interiors were lavish and boasted leather seats and a vast quantity of lacquered walnut woodgrain appointments.
The cars had the appearance of a big cat ready to pounce and the view from the driver’s seat gives the impression you are continually propelling forward.
THE CAR Finished in beautiful Silver Metallic, this well sorted long-wheel-base XJ6L was delivered in November 1975 to a Mr Birch in Collins Street, Melbourne by Bryson Industries in Richmond, Victoria. The paint is in excellent condition for its age.
Powered by the bigger 4.2 litre straight six engine with twin SU carburettors, this is a solid and fun car to drive. The engine is powerful and the transmission is smooth. The car has power steering, power windows and air conditioning with rear seat passenger controls. All gauges and instruments are in excellent condition, there are dual fuel tanks and an aftermarket stereo head unit has been installed.
The interior is in fantastic condition with its original leather seats and glossy wooden highlights. The carpets, door cards and headlining are all in excellent condition. The car has a wonderful stance and is set off well by its chrome wheel arch treatments, hubcaps and white wall tyres.
A replacement steering wheel has been fitted, but the original wheel in the boot with a quantity of spare parts.
The car retains its original delivery books, wiring diagrams and service records. There is an extensive receipt file dating back to 2009 and the current owners have enjoyed this stately vehicle for over 12 years and have driven just over 34,000 km.
Currently on historic registration in SA, this car was last serviced in February 2025.
