We have covered these Jaguar XJ coupes, such as this 1975 edition, here on BF before and the posts usually start out with the word “Rare”. Well, if I found enough of these on this site, maybe they’re not so rare after all so I’ll dispense with that descriptor. Specifically, the XJ coupe was offered between ’75 and ’78 with a total output exceeding 10K units, so no, not really rare. But they’re not commonly encountered either. The details on this one are exceedingly light but let’s examine it anyway and see if we can fill in any missing pieces. It’s located in Niagra Falls, New York and is available, here on eBay for a no reserve bid of $5,535 with twenty-four bids tendered so far.
I’m not certain who the stylist was that first penned this coupe but he did a fantastic job, the greenhouse, to my eyes, is perfectly balanced. All coupes came with a vinyl-covered roof but I don’t know what in the Sam Hill happened to this one – it’s pretty well ground up. The seller states that this car has been sitting in garage storage for fifteen years but it did start right up – more on that to follow. There is some serious finish discoloration on the horizontal surfaces but the verticle panels show well – something was up with that storage! The images don’t show any sign of rust and those of the underside turn up clean too. As for the chrome and stainless trim, they’re both puttin’ on a shine but the wheel covers are showing signs of rust.
This Jag is specifically an XJ6 so that means a 162 HP, 4.2 liter, in-line six-cylinder engine which is tethered to a three-speed automatic transmission. As previously mentioned, it starts and drives though the seller suggests, “With a little fresh gas and EZ start she fired right up! Very low miles for this car, I would assume that all fluids would have to be changed as well as the brakes possibly gone over although they work fine now“. The mileage is stated as 75K miles which I wouldn’t think is excessive if this car has been properly maintained.
Other than some seriously delaminated dashboard wood trim, the interior looks pretty good. The black leather upholstery doesn’t appear to be stressed, the carpet and center console check out though the dashpad is split. There is only one interior image in the listing and it’s not too comprehensive – and nothing is said about its condition so an inquiry will need to be made to learn more.
The good? A less-than-common body style, decent interior, seemingly sound overall condition, and probably OK mechanicals. The bad? Cosmetics – this one will need a respray and a new roof covering. But, this is a no-reserve auction, so maybe someone will get a good buy and have enough room left over for some aesthetic rejuvenation, right?
“Rare” in my mind means very few exsist. I would say the coupe is “scarce” or “uncommon”. Regardless it’s a beautiful car.
The last beautiful Jag IMHO..love the coupe and hope this one finds a good hom.
Went these were new l went to the factory and took a tour when l was in “Jolly Old” courtesy of the US Navy. Watched ‘em make the doors. Just took two front doors, cut ‘em in half and welded ‘em together! I’ve had 4 Jags over the years, just a newer XJ6 now. Love ‘em! Wanted a coupe for years, may have to bid on this one.
This’ll get some hate but having managed a British Leyland dealership parts department and owned a few XJ cars, I can say that this is okay…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UcThzSZZ7F0
Dr. Ron:
It’s the Draguar! I remember this episode of Roadkill, it was a blast!
Thx,
JO
Actually the “real” production dates were 75 and 76. A few were built as stragglers in 77 but thats it. They were based on the SWB XJ platform and as that platform was phased out at the end of 76 the decision was made to not continue production on the LWB platform. Besides, they were a poor seller then and had a multitude of problems. Like the vinyl top. A ‘luxury” add on? nope – used to hide the flexing of the top skin and other problem blemishes. The list could go on…
I remember hearing that fact on Harry’s Garage. I love what he did with his even though the lottery winnings would be the only way I could have afforded the restoration.
These might qualify to be called rare now as rust has devoured a good portion of the coupes. These are the best looking Jag’s of all in my opinion and I would love to have one. I’d be tempted to bid on this one but I will be downsizing and moving in the next few months so don’t want any distractions at his time. If I do ever get one I think I would probably make the LS swap as I think that would be an improvement in performance and reliability. Kits are available from several places to make the swap and from what I have read it’s relatively easy as engine swaps go. Good luck to someone.
Great looking car, all the proportions just look right. That six is a good engine and if this has been properly maintained. Some cosmetic work and you’ll have a really nice car. Enjoy the drive!
Leave it as is. Fuel injection and CDI ignition. Possibly a modern 7+ speed automatic transmission to enhance highway mpg. The vinyl top is the only eyesore / ongoing error I’d consider besides a slight shade of paint update at that time. Something with gold metallic or bronze less ‘brown suit’ in appearance. It’s too nice of a car for that vinyl and that shade of brown. In my opinion. That engine is a spectacular piece of engineering. Perhaps the best engine the Brits ever created.
I had one, years ago, and have always regretted selling it. Jaguars generally had a bad reputation for dependability but I must say mine never stranded me. It did flood easy when starting cold, but that was mostly operator error. The vinyl top had been removed before I bought the car and I did like the looks of the car without it. I live in Washington State and would have to check prices before shipping, but this could be a killer deal.