UK vs UK — 1963 vs 1972
| P5 3-Litre Coupe | XJ12 Series III | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 134 hp | 295 hp |
| Torque | 175 lb-ft | 318 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,995 cc | 5,343 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 16.5 sec | 7.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,451 lbs | 4,200 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,794 mm | 2,865 mm |
| Length | 4,699 mm | 5,024 mm |
| Units Produced | 69,141 | 10,500 |
| Original MSRP | $5,100 | $38,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 1972 Jaguar XJ12 Series III with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe offers lighter weight, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
In the world of Luxury Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1963 Rover P5 3-Litre Coupe versus the 1972 Jaguar XJ12 Series III. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1972 Jaguar XJ12 Series III holds a clear advantage in raw power with 295 hp compared to 134 hp, a 161-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rover P5 uses a Inline-6 IOE displacing 2,995 cc, while the Jaguar XJ12 relies on a V12 SOHC with 5,343 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Jaguar XJ12 Series III edges ahead at 7.1 seconds versus 16.5 seconds. The Rover P5 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 749 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 10,500 units built, the 1972 Jaguar XJ12 Series III is considerably scarcer than the Rover P5's 69,141 examples.