The XJ6L was a decent performer to start with, coming equipped in North America with a 4.2L engine that made 150 horsepower right from the factory. But the seller of this 1974 Jaguar XJ6L here on Craigslist had other ideas and it sounds like he’s ready to move onto another project, so if you’ve been on the hunt for something unusual in the Jag market this one may be worth a look. It’s not going to break the bank either, as the asking price has been set at a reasonable-sounding $6,500, so if you’re near Northridge, California go check it out and let us know what you think. Thanks for the tip here, Pat L!
Lift the hood and you’ll find the original powerplant absent, and in its place now is a 350 Chevy V8. Interestingly, we don’t get much information regarding the motor, other than it’s recently had a valve job. Admittedly, I sometimes get skeptical when a transplant from one brand to another is made and the owner makes the decision to sell, especially if not much time has elapsed. A case in point is the transmission, a new 700R4 with just 500 miles on it. But in this situation, I feel pretty good about the circumstances as the seller mentions a new project that’s taken his interest, and I’m spotting a Mercedes in the garage that looks really sweet, at least from the front.
We don’t get a whole lot of specific details about the outside either, other than the paint has a few scratches and there are a couple of finger-size dents on one of the fenders. Maybe the bright sunlight is really helping out, but to me, that finish is looking A-OK for a driver, with the chrome and other trim pieces shining well too, along with a nice-looking set of wheels. I’d have to have a lot more free time on my hands before doing anything different to the exterior.
The car is looking pretty good on the inside too, with the interior stated as new. The only component I might question is the dash, as it’s not specified if that cover is hiding something or is just there for protection. On the driver’s side, the carpet is a bit worn, but a new carpeting kit is included in the sale. The seats and instrument panel appear to be in fine shape, although both the heat and air are mentioned as non-functioning. Even the few blemishes don’t appear to be all that significant, and for $6,500 unless there’s something I’m not spotting this Jaguar almost seems like a bargain, plus the seller mentions OBO, aka or best offer, so it sounds like he’s ready to negotiate. What are your thoughts on this one?
Glad it’s not closer. Lol. I love this body style with the Chevy swap. Beautiful clean lines combined with simple American V8. What’s not to love?
The ad is gone already.
Sadly. Lovely combination.
This is a common swap for the 6cyl XJ6s. As I understand it, it wasn’t done to increase performance. But rather because A/C demand on the Jag engine in US climate was causing blown head gaskets. I’ve never had one with the Chevy conversion, but had 3 of these earlier XJ6s, and have a newer one in my driveway now. The ride is amazing, but watch out for Lucas…Prince of Darkness!
These are actually a common swap done,some installs are done better than others.probably has a few odds and ends to be done.the use of a 700r4 is a good choice,use a short gear like 3.73 or 3.90 and still cruise on the highway.
Over the years I’ve read about these swabs and remember seeing ads from firms that did them and/or sold kits to facilitate them. However I don’t remember ever seeing one for sale where everything such as the a/c, gauges, heater etc all worked. Is that an impossible expectation with engine swaps?
I taught Automotive at a public high school outside of San Diego. In the late 70’s and early 80’s my students did two such swaps. A 350 in one and a 383 in the other. We had to fab everything. It was a very straight forward swap. The cars had good driving habits, great power and mileage. As far as electrical goes it is Lucas. Everything should work like new. Very fun to drive.