UK vs UK — 1981 vs 1988
| XJ-S V12 HE | XJ-S TWR 6.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 299 hp | 333 hp |
| Torque | — | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,343 cc | 5,993 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,902 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,591 mm | 2,591 mm |
| Length | 4,770 mm | 4,915 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 326 |
| Original MSRP | — | $68,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Jaguar XJ-S V12 HE brings better value to the table, and the 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 answers with more power, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Jaguar XJ-S. The 1981 and 1988 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 333 hp compared to 299 hp, a 34-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar XJ-S uses a V12 displacing 5,343 cc, while the Jaguar XJ-S relies on a V12 SOHC with 5,993 cc. On the collector market, the 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 commands a significant premium over the 1981 Jaguar XJ-S V12 HE, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.