The Jaguar XJ-S comes of age

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

It might not seem it but 50 years ago Jaguar unveiled the long awaited successor to the iconic E-Type, the XJ-S.

It’s fair to say it got a mixed reception on its debut at the 1975 London Motor Show. Some called the new grand tourer ‘frumpy’ and some described it as ‘lumpy’.

The launch of the XJ-S was an important moment for the Jaguar brand and it didn’t help that for over a year potential buyers were starved of a sports model from the Midlands manufacturer. The last E-Type came off the production line in June 1974.

The car was one thirsty cat, but over time the XJ-S would win over many of its doubters.

The car was built on the platform of the then current XJ saloon and came with a power-packed 5.3 litre V12 engine.

Design wise it’s a car remembered for an unusual rear window between two ‘flying buttresses’.

Early sales were slow and in 1981 the XJ-S was given a much needed facelift inside and out. It included a more fuel efficient engine with a 3.6 litre option.

In 1988, a two-seat convertible came along and this proved a turning point for Jaguar.

Three years later, the XJ-S was relaunched for a final time under new owners in Ford.

A redesign saw a new rear facia, tail-lights and trunk lid. Under the bonnet, the V12 engine was upgraded and a new 4.0 litre version was introduced. As potential buys, these final cars were finely developed and are arguably the pick of the range.

Production ended in 1996, after 21 years, and after a bumpy start the XJ-S had made its mark with over 115,000 sold. Its successor would be the all new XK8.

Looking back the XJ-S might have had big boots to fill but it’s one of those cars that seems to have matured nicely over time.

Even those flying buttresses seem a blur when you get behind the wheel.

Yes, this is one cat that won’t be forgotten!