Jaguar XJ12 Series 2 5.3 1974 to 1979

Jaguar's ground-breaking luxury saloon and coupe with the unique production V12, built from 1974 to 1979. The original standard tyre was a 205/70VR15 radial.

In 1974 the Jaguar XJ and Daimler Sovereign Series 2 replaced the Series 1 models after more than 98,000 of the latter had been produced. The redesigned bodyshell now featured side impact protection, new multi-pin plug connections for the wiring loom and there was also a much-improved air conditioning system. The arrival of the Jaguar XJ and Daimler Sovereign Series 2 also brought a new bodystyle; a stylish coupé which was offered in six- or 12-cylinder forms.

Within a year the 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine had given way to a 3.4-litre unit, and the Daimler Vanden Plas 4.2 also joined the range. From this point on all V12s were fitted with fuel injection, while all XJ12 saloons get a vinyl roof as standard.

All XJ12s got a GM400 automatic transmission from 1977, then in 1978 the XJ6 4.2 got fuel injection – but only US-market cars, as UK models retained their carburettors. Then in 1979 the Jaguar and Daimler Series 2 were replaced by the Series 3.

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