Does anyone run a Jaguar XJ6 Series 1?

Does anyone run a Jaguar XJ6 Series 1?

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Gravy

Original Poster:

2,070 posts

240 months

Tuesday 6th April 2010
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Over the Easter weekend I spent sometime in the garage of the F in L's who is a bit of a Jaguar nut and has a couple of projects on the go (has done for years actually, but that's another story).

I also spent time reading Octane's article on the new XJ reviewed alongside the Series 1 XJ6.

This got me thinking that an old Jag could be a good bet for me and I have fallen for the looks of the Series 1 XJ completely. I think it is one of the finest looking saloons ever made. Apparently they can be had for sensible outlay, so if anyone owns and runs one, what are they like please? The F in L and I are hatching a plan!

richw_82

992 posts

192 months

Tuesday 6th April 2010
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I run one, every day.

Mine's a 1973 2.8, short wheelbase with the manual and overdrive gearbox. It's by no means the pick of the bunch, as a 4.2 would be better, and mine is a little shabby at best (it's a rescue cat!) also mine is on a cloth interior. It might get a 4.2 engine this winter.

They are a gorgeous car. It's nice and balanced to drive and doesn't feel anywhere near as hefty as the later long wheelbase cars, though it still rolls quite heavily in tight corners.

The only annoyances mine has thrown up so far is the heater matrix blew (which meant having all the dashboard out) and if you are over six foot the driving position can feel a little odd, as the seat doesn't go back quite as far as you may like.

Mechanically they share lots with the later saloons and the XJS, so bodywork is really the bit to concentrate on. Try to get the best you can and you'll avoid trouble. Mine sat since 1996, then I took it for an MOT and it only failed on a few bushes, tyres and the exhaust. They are surprisingly well put together.

Anything in particular that you want to know about them? I'll try and answer as best I can.

Regards

Ric


Gravy

Original Poster:

2,070 posts

240 months

Wednesday 7th April 2010
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Hi Ric, that's about all I was after, just a broad overview of what they are like and that it is important to look favour bodywork over mechanicals as I suspected, so thanks for your reply!