For Sale: 1973 Jaguar XJ12 Series 1 – Rare V12 British Sedan (Restoration Opportunity)
An exceptional opportunity to own a piece of British motoring history—the 1973 Jaguar XJ12 Series 1.
Whether you’re a classic car collector, Jaguar enthusiast, or a restorer seeking an iconic project, this early V12 sedan offers the perfect canvas for bringing a true automotive legend back to life.
Enthusiast Highlights – Why This V12 XJ Stands Out
Powering this Series 1 XJ is the renowned 5.3-liter V12—a silky-smooth powerhouse that once set the benchmark for refinement and effortless performance.
This example was running when parked approximately 10 years ago and has since been stored under cover in a dry shed. It is currently non-running but turns over freely, making it a strong candidate for straightforward mechanical recommissioning ahead of a full restoration.
The body retains its classic Jaguar styling, complete with quad headlights, the original chrome trim, and a long bonnet adorned by the leaping cat mascot. Inside, the cabin is complete and features the original black leather upholstery, real wood trim, and the full suite of Smiths gauges and controls — a true time capsule.
Suspension & Racing Heritage
The 1973 Jaguar XJ12 wasn’t just built for comfort—it was engineered with performance in mind. Featuring fully independent suspension all round (a rarity for the time), the XJ12 offered a remarkably smooth ride without sacrificing handling precision. Coil springs, wishbones, and anti-roll bars were all meticulously tuned to deliver confident cornering and composed road manners, even at high speed. Jaguar’s commitment to refined handling came directly from its motorsport success—particularly in endurance racing with its earlier C-Type and D-Type Le Mans winners—bringing race-bred engineering into a luxury saloon. This car delivers that uniquely Jaguar blend of sporting capability and limousine comfort,
Condition: Honest, Complete & Ideal for Restoration
This XJ12 presents in good, honest condition for its age—structurally solid, original, and untouched.
It has not been subject to previous poor restorations or heavy modifications, making it highly desirable for a proper, authentic rebuild. A rare find in today’s market.
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Vehicle Specifications
• Model: 1973 Jaguar XJ12 Series 1
• Engine: 5.3-liter V12
• Engine Status: Was Running When Parked ~10 Years Ago (Currently Non-Running)
• Transmission: Automatic
• Exterior Color: Silver/Grey
• Interior: Original Black Leather with Wood Veneer Trim
• Body Style: 4-Door Sedan or saloon (RHD)
• Suspension: Fully Independent (Front and Rear)
• Brakes: Four-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Features:
o Original Matching Numbers V12 Engine
o Original Automatic Gearbox
o Full Original Interior – Leather & Wood Trim
o Classic Jaguar Styling – Quad Headlamps, Chrome Trim
o Dry-Stored for a Decade – Preserved Structure
o Leaping Jaguar Bonnet Mascot
o Smith’s Instruments and Factory Switchgear
o Untouched, Honest Condition – Perfect Restoration Base
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Summary: Restore a Jaguar Classic – Own a V12 Legacy
This 1973 Jaguar XJ12 Series 1 is more than a luxury saloon—it’s a slice of automotive history. With values of classic Jaguars continuing to rise and V12 examples becoming increasingly rare, this is a prime opportunity to secure a car of lasting significance.
Whether you plan a concours-quality restoration or a tasteful sympathetic revival, this XJ12 is a solid, honest foundation with incredible long-term value and driving potential.
📍 Located in the city of Whittlesea
📩 Inspections welcome – message today to secure this British legend.