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2005 Shannons Summer Auction
Lot
24

1977 Jaguar XJ-C V12 Coupe

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Specifications

Engine V-12, 6 Litre
Gearbox 4-speed automatic
Body Work Coupe
Colour White

Description

This lot is no longer available

Built in very limited numbers between 1975 and 1977, the handsome coupe version of the XJ saloon was offered with either the 4.2-litre six-cylinder or 5.3-litre V12 engines. Built on the same wheelbase as its four-door siblings, the coupes' pillarless side window treatment and thicker rear pillars made for supremely elegant styling though that 1970s period touch 'the vinyl roof' looks a little dated today. Mechanically the XJ5.3C was based on the Series II XJ12, meaning it benefited from the latest Lucas electronic fuel injection to boost power from 250 to 285bhp.

Performance of these Jaguars was in the super car league with a top speed of around 150mph and they even had a brief competition career, the Broadspeed-built XJCs waving the British Leyland flag in European Touring Car Championships during 1976-77. Production of the XJ5.3C was curtailed by the introduction of the new XJ-S and just 1,855 were built - making them a rare commodity today and this rarity, combined with massive performance and superb looks, will ensure values continue to climb in years to come.