Jaguar XJS

vs

Aston Martin Tickford Capri

UK vs UK — 1975 vs 1983

Jaguar XJS (1975)
Aston Martin Tickford Capri (1983)
Specifications
XJS V12 CoupeTickford Capri Turbo
Horsepower285 hp205 hp
Torque320 lb-ft223 lb-ft
Engine Size5,343 cc2,792 cc
0-60 mph7.6 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed150 mph137 mph
¼ Mile15.7 sec14.8 sec
Weight3,954 lbs2,700 lbs
Wheelbase2,591 mm2,565 mm
Length4,869 mm4,369 mm
Units Produced115,413100
Original MSRP$19,000
Value (Excellent)$55,000$65,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity4/109/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1975 Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

In the world of Grand Tourer cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1975 Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe versus the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo. Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1975 Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 285 hp compared to 205 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar XJS uses a V12 SOHC displacing 5,343 cc, while the Aston Martin Tickford Capri relies on a Inline-4 Turbo with 2,792 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.6 seconds. The Aston Martin Tickford Capri carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1254 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 100 units built, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XJS's 115,413 examples. On the collector market, the 1983 Aston Martin Tickford Capri Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1975 Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.