1979 JAGUAR XJ 5.3L V12 3AT RWD (290 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In 1979, Jaguar introduced a heavily facelifted version of the XJ lineup with the so-called Series III model. It was the most successful version of the XJ’s first generation, which lasted until 1992.

Jaguar was way too conservative to create new vehicles, especially if those it had on the production lines were sold in good numbers. For instance, the Series III was the most produced version of it, with total sales exceeding 140,000 units.

While it still kept the original design language, it was slightly reshaped by the magic touch of Pininfarina’s artistic touches. Its four headlights were neatly followed on the hood by sculptured lines and rounded shapes. A chromed grille stood proud in the middle, while the “jumping cat” was placed rearwards to protect pedestrians. Yet some countries have already debated that element and considered it dangerous. From its sides, the car sported new, flush door handles, but the overall shape was still fluid. Moreover, Jaguar produced the car with a choice of two wheelbases. The longer one was considered an exclusive limo, just a stint below the renowned Rolls-Royce.

With a pair of bucket seats at the front separated by a center console, which sported an armrest, the XJ provided a great deal of comfort for all passengers. Regardless if it was an automatic or a three-pedal car, the gear stick/selector was placed on the center console. At the back, the bench was profiled for two occupants, with a folding center armrest in the middle.

Under the hood, Jaguar offered the XJ with a choice of three engines, all fed by gasoline. The top-of-the-range version featured a Lucas fuel injection system.