1975 Jaguar XJS

1975 to 1996 · Coupe

The XJS emerged from Jaguar's darkest hour as an unlikely survivor that would outlast nearly every contemporary. Malcolm Sayer's final design replaced the beloved E-Type in 1975, trading pure sports car DNA for grand touring sophistication. That controversial choice proved prescient—the XJS became Jaguar's longest-running model at 21 years. Early cars suffered from Lucas electrical gremlins and Leyland build quality, but the bones were brilliant: a 5.3-liter V12 wrapped in timeless pillarless coupe bodywork. The 1981 HE (High Efficiency) update improved reliability and economy, while convertible and 6-cylinder variants broadened appeal. Today's collectors prize well-maintained V12 examples, particularly pre-facelift cars with their purer lines. Values remain accessible compared to E-Types, making the XJS a compelling entry into V12 Jaguar ownership—assuming you've budgeted for proper maintenance of that glorious but thirsty twelve-cylinder heart.