2023-05-07 15:19:16 | pauls writes:

Car at auction 5/23

auctions.shannons.com.au/auction/lot/lot-1973-jaguar-xj6-series-1-saloon/

Auction description:

Starts 23rd May, 2023 10:00

Ending 30th May, 2023 0:00:00

2023 Shannons Autumn Timed Online Auction

Lot Location: Melbourne

1973 Jaguar XJ6 Series 1

Reserve Status: No Reserve

Chassis Number: 1L29612BM

Engine Number: 7L62403S

Jaguar’s XJ range of luxury sedans set new benchmarks for styling, refinement and a ride quality unmatched by even the best German rivals when introduced in 1968. Without question one of the most significant cars in the Jaguar’s history, the new XJ series was a thoroughly modern design, successfully combining the best of British craftsmanship with cutting edge technology. Initially launched with updated 2.8 or 4.2 versions of the venerable XK engine, the XJ was offered in Jaguar and Daimler versions, both sharing the same platform and basic bodyshell. In 4.2-litre guise, the XJ6 featured twin SU HD8 carburettors and much improved cooling, allied to a four-speed manual gearbox with a Laycock de Normanville overdrive, although Borg-Warner’s Type 35 automatic transmission remained the preferred option for most buyers, particularly American customers. Larger 15-inch wheels were fitted to take advantage of new Dunlop E70VR15 radial tyres, along with an effective dual-line braking system using Girling equipment. The XJ6’s cabin, always a Jaguar strength, featured a lovely blend of traditional British craftsmanship with modern appointments; from the walnut veneer dash to the Connolly-covered contoured seats and rich pile carpeting, the XJ6’s interior was an inviting place to be. Notable features included an improved heating and ventilation system, with air conditioning optional. Joined by a longer wheelbase variant in October 1972, the first generation XJ6 remained in production from 1968 until 1973 before the revised Series 2 range was unveiled. Today, appreciation for the Series 1 XJ6 is growing; built in an era when the corporate influence of British Leyland hadn’t yet completely taken hold at Browns Lane, these early cars retain a purity of design and period charm increasingly lost on later generations.

The XJ6 Series 1 that is surely now deserving of classic status. Our example here, from 1973 (the last year of the Series 1 and introductory year of the Series 2), has undergone a refurbishment of its cosmetics by our vendor, including a fresh white paintjob. The vehicle sits on a set of rather weathered Globe ‘Bathurst’ alloys instead of the factory steel wheels, while inside it’s a mix of dark navy leather with cloth inserts, and grey headlining. Factory Smiths air conditioning is fitted, with a AWA radio-cassette player providing the entertainment options. Under the bonnet is Jaguar’s familiar 4.2 litre straight six, mated to the three-speed automatic transmission, almost the XJ6’s default specification. The new paint on our Series 1 presents well, as does the interior trim which looks to have been redone at some stage. Inertia reel seatbelts have been installed in the back, to match those in the front. A new windscreen and rubbers have also been fitted. Indicating 55,669 miles (at the time of cataloguing), this ’73 Jaguar comes with a number of receipts for the work done, including over $15,000 spent on its refurbishment. It’s a good starting point. The 1973 Jaguar XJ6 Series 1 is being sold here unregistered and at No Reserve.