Jaguar XJ6 4.2 Series 1 1970 review
Saloon Petrol
Photo: Coolalabright (CC BY 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Series 1 XJ6 is the car that made Jaguar - Sir William Lyons' masterpiece, launched in 1968 to universal acclaim. With its 4.2-litre XK six, all-round independent suspension and a cabin trimmed like a gentleman's club, it was quite simply the best saloon in the world.
Today the Series 1 is the purist's XJ: slim chrome bumpers, the original low roofline and none of the later clutter. It offers 120 mph wafting for the price of a used Fiesta, though you will want a specialist on speed dial.
UK price from: £8,750
Specifications
| Engine | 4.2-litre inline-6 (4,235 cc) |
| Power | 245 bhp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 124 mph |
| Fuel economy | ~16 mpg |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual or 3-speed auto |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Production years | 1968-1973 (Series 1) |
| Kerb weight | 1,770 kg |
Features
- 4.2-litre XK straight-six with 245 bhp
- All-round independent suspension for a magic-carpet ride
- Walnut and leather cabin - pure 1960s luxury
- Slim chrome bumpers unique to the Series 1
- Four-speed manual with overdrive or Borg-Warner automatic
- Hailed as the finest production car in the world at launch
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pad set | £45 | Standard road pads |
| Rear brake disc pair | £80 | Inboard rear discs, per pair |
| Exhaust middle and rear sections | £350 | Mild steel system |
| Water pump | £95 | XK engine cooling service item |
| Front ball joint pair | £40 | Suspension wear item |
| SU carburettor rebuild kit | £85 | Per pair of carbs |
Pros
- Enormous car for the money - true luxury-car presence
- Superb ride comfort that embarrasses modern saloons
- Straight-six soundtrack and effortless torque
- Series 1 values are finally waking up
Cons
- Rust in sills, floors, wings and rear suspension mounts
- Cooling and electrics need vigilant maintenance
- 16 mpg - budget for fuel as well as maintenance
- Manual and overdrive cars are rare - most are automatics
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Series 1 XJ6 worth?
Good 4.2 Series 1 cars sell for £7,000-£12,000, with the best reaching £18,000-plus. Scruffy runners start around £4,000.
Should I buy a 2.8 or a 4.2?
The 4.2 is the one to have - torquier, faster and more desirable. The 2.8 is cheaper but less loved and values lag behind.
Where does the Series 1 XJ6 rust?
Sills, floors, front wings, rear wheel arches and the radius-arm mounts. The rear suspension cage mounts are critical - check them.
Does the XJ6 overheat?
The XK engine needs a healthy cooling system - recored radiator, working fans and correct coolant. Neglected cars overheat and warp heads.
Manual or automatic?
The manual with overdrive is rarer and more engaging; the Borg-Warner auto suits the car's wafting character. Both are robust if maintained.
