UK vs UK — 1975 vs 1988
| XJ-C 5.3 V12 | XJ-S TWR 6.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 333 hp |
| Torque | 304 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,343 cc | 5,993 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.4 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 4,090 lbs | 3,902 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,764 mm | 2,591 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,915 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,855 | 326 |
| Original MSRP | $18,500 | $68,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
The 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1975 Jaguar XJ-C 5.3 V12 counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Jaguar XJ-C from 1975 to 1988 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Jaguar. The 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 333 hp compared to 285 hp, a 48-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 7.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 326 units built, the 1988 Jaguar XJ-S TWR 6.0 is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XJ-C's 1,855 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.