1975 | Jaguar XJ 12 L

The Last of the Great Twelve-Cylinder Saloons – the Jaguar XJ V12 of 1975

By the late 1960s, the era of expansive, grand saloons was drawing to a close. Social shifts had trimmed back the aristocratic excess of top-tier automobiles to something more understated and approachable. While the Jaguar XJ6 took inspiration from its predecessor, its proportions were far more compact and refined—a masterful blend of elegance and restraint.

Though visually less elitist than its forerunner, the XJ6 set new benchmarks in ride comfort and sound insulation. At the time, auto motor und sport wrote: “In every aspect of its character, the XJ6 is more distant from the so-called mass-produced automobile than any German car could ever be.”

Even in comparison with the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, the XJ6 was quieter, faster, and significantly more agile. The same applied to the XJ12, introduced in 1972, which was then the only twelve-cylinder saloon on the market. Jaguar unveiled the revised Series II the following spring, featuring a redesigned front end with a lower grille and raised bumpers, giving it a more balanced and modern appearance.

This particular Jaguar XJ12 in Light Silver with dark blue interior was purchased new in August 1975 by a lady from Crans, in the canton of Valais, at the Emil Frey Garage de la Gare. It has remained in the same family ownership ever since. The last documented service was stamped in 2018, and in 2023 the car successfully passed the Swiss veteran vehicle inspection (MFK). It still features its original period Blaupunkt radio, and the original steering wheel is included in the sale.

This unrestored Jaguar is offered in authentic condition grade 3, having covered just 112,000 kilometres. Even today, this saloon delivers the unmistakable sensation of travelling in true automotive luxury.