Jaguar XJ-C 5.3 V12
The Jaguar XJ Coupe, known as the XJ-C, represents one of the most elegant and rarest variants of the XJ family. Introduced in 1975, this pillarless coupe adaptation of the XJ Series II saloon was conceived by Sir William Lyons as a personal luxury car of exceptional style, but production difficulties and Jaguar's troubled industrial relations ensured that only modest numbers were built.
The V12 version was the flagship of the XJ-C range. Powered by the magnificent 5.3-litre V12 engine producing 285 brake horsepower, it combined effortless performance with the distinctive mechanical refinement that only a twelve-cylinder engine can provide. The silky-smooth power delivery, coupled with the three-speed Borg-Warner automatic transmission, created a driving experience of unusual sophistication.
Visually, the XJ-C was arguably the most beautiful Jaguar saloon derivative ever produced. The pillarless side glass design created an extraordinarily clean profile, with no B-pillar to interrupt the glass area when both windows were lowered. The vinyl roof covering, applied in part to disguise the seams required by the structural modifications, became a signature styling element. The shortened roofline gave the car a more sporting stance than the standard saloon.
The chassis was essentially that of the short-wheelbase XJ saloon, with the renowned independent rear suspension that had set new standards for ride comfort and handling in large cars. Performance was impressive, with a top speed approaching 145 mph and 0-60 acceleration in the mid-seven second range, remarkable for a luxury car of this size and weight.
However, the XJ-C was plagued by quality issues that reflected the troubled state of British Leyland at the time. Water leaks were endemic, partly due to the frameless door glass design. Wind noise at speed was another common complaint. These problems, combined with the car's higher price compared to the saloon, limited sales significantly.
The Broadspeed racing team campaigned XJ-C V12s in the European Touring Car Championship with considerable success, most notably winning the 1976 championship. These racing coupes demonstrated the underlying excellence of the car's design when quality control was properly managed.
Just 1,855 V12 XJ-C coupes were produced before production ceased in 1978. This rarity, combined with the car's undeniable beauty and the prestige of the V12 engine, has made the XJ-C increasingly desirable among collectors. Well-restored examples command strong prices, and the car is now recognized as one of the most attractive Jaguars of the 1970s.
Water leaks through the frameless door seals are the defining characteristic and can be very difficult to cure completely. Check for rust in sills, inner wings, rear subframe mounts, and floor pans. The V12 engine is generally reliable but the fuel injection or carburetor systems need specialist attention. Vinyl roof covers should be inspected carefully as they can hide corrosion. Interior trim parts specific to the coupe are very scarce. Budget for specialist restoration if purchasing a project car.
Total XJ-C production across all engine variants was approximately 10,426 units. The V12 version accounted for 1,855 of these. Build quality issues including water leaks were never fully resolved during the production run. The XJ-C was based on the short-wheelbase XJ Series II platform. Broadspeed raced modified versions successfully in the European Touring Car Championship.