Description
The Jaguar XJ series automobile made its firsts appearance in the autumn of 1968 with the first of what would become six total generations, reaching a production number of more than 800,000 examples. This figure is over half of all Jaguars ever built and gives you an idea of its popularity. The original intent was to create a single model that would replace four of its predecessors. They had no way of knowing how well the model would catch on with loyal Jaguar enthusiasts. As the Jaguar legend goes, the XJ was the inspiration of Sir William Lyons, the founder of the company, who had a vision of the future as he saw it in the 1960s era.
The first example of the XJ model was known as the project number XJ4 internally, which emerged as the 1968 Jaguar XJ Series I. Lyons oversaw the bodywork and styling of the new vehicle with the idea of replacing the E-type with a GT 4 seat model for the American market, following the popular trends for the region. Both front and rear ends were inspired by the E-type with a 2 door version. As the work progressed on the new model, it was decided that the addition of rear doors was necessary, along with a shortening of the front and rear ends with enhancements to the grille and the inclusion of four headlights. Engineering was directed by Bob Knight, the genius behind Jaguar’s independent rear suspension. For the new model, he modified the design which was used to achieve both ride comfort and top notch handling on the road.
The 1968 Jaguar XJ Series I made its debut just prior to the London Motor Show on September 26 of 1968. It was advertised as Jag’s best saloon car that embodied sportiness, comfort, performance and style. The final version presented to the world featured a base model with a 2.8 liter engine with a lower price that was minus the leather trim. The 4.2 engine as a straight six with twin carbs, was moderately priced for its class and generated 245bhp, accelerating from 0-60 in 9 seconds with a top speed of 124mph. It was available with a four speed manual gearbox or an automatic. It won “Car of the Year” in Britain, but was not considered for the European distinction overall. These models cleared production lines and didn’t spend much time on showroom floors as their popularity soared.
This remarkable survivor has been in the care of just one family from new, supported by an extensive history file which will be made available to the purchaser. In the mid-1980s the XJ6 enjoyed a significant program of restoration and upgrade works by specialist Lynx Engineering of Hastings, a very well regarded restored of C- and D-Type models and developer of the XJ-S shooting brake (the Lynx Eventer). The works with Lynx was completed to a high standard and included the fitting of new front wings, refinishing of the bodywork and chrome trim, a new electric steel sunroof and electric windows, the fitting of lowered and uprated suspension and a stainless steel exhaust system. The interior was finished with a wooden Moto-Lita steering wheel.
Always garaged and offered with a comprehensive history file, this very interesting single family car is ready to enjoyed and further improved by its next enthusiastic owner. The XJ6 will be offered at No Reserve to the highest bidder.
