XJ12 Series 3
THE SERIES 3 XJ12 was in production for much longer than Jaguar had intended because the XJ40 (which replaced the XJ6) wasn’t equipped with a V12 engine until 1993. Consequently, the XJ12 in its last guise had the longest production lifespan – from1979 to 1992 – of all its predecessors. Sadly, its sales weren’t so outstanding at a mere 10,500.
However, the Pininfarina-revised Series 3 with its 285bhp-295bhp 5,343cc V12 engine was the ultimate high-performance saloon when new and is now regarded as a classic that can match modern traffic (0-60mph time is under eight or nine seconds), providing you don’t mind the average 20mpg fuel economy, if you are frugal on the accelerator pedal. Good examples sell for around £15,000, which is also the same amount you’d need for a V12 engine rebuild, or extensive body repairs and a respray – the two major expenses on a neglected and rotten XJ12.
Fortunately, parts availability is good in many cases and is competitively priced, so there’s no excuse not to keep on top of maintenance. The following pages provide an insight into buying and owning one of these highperformance saloons and cover some of the potential problems that could arise, how they can be fixed, and an outline of the costs involved. Remember, these are potential issues; some owners experience no such problems. However, we’ve consulted a number of specialists so that we can provide you with the maximum knowledge of what to look for if you fancy buying one of these wonderful classics, or keeping on top of maintenance if you already have one.
Front wings
Look for corrosion around the arches of the front wing
