1978 Jaguar XJ12L

In 1968 Jaguar introduced their XJ6 - and although introduced with the XK six-cylinder engine, it had always been Jaguar's intention that its flagship saloon would accommodate the new all-alloy V12 engine that had made its introduction in the E-Type sports car, and that happened in July of 1972. The 5.3-liter V12 engine offered 272 horsepower and had a top speed of 145 mph. The performance and luxury found in the 12-cylinder Jaguar rivaled that of many more expensive European sports cars. Though the two-door coupe was aimed at the lucrative USA market, the coupe was never approved by the USA authorities.

In 1974, Jaguar introduced the long-wheelbase XJ12L sedan. The XJ12L rested on a large 112.8-inch wheelbase, had a three-speed automatic gearbox, and had disc brakes in the front and the rear.

In 1997, Jaguar would adopt the fuel-injected engine for the United States market. The overhead-cam 12-cylinder engine displaced 326 cubic-inches and offered 244 horsepower. The 1978 model would continue with no significant changes. It was priced at $23,900 for the XJ12L sedan while the XJ6L sedan sold for $19,000. During 1978, Jaguar sold 3,284 examples of the XJ12L in the United States.


By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2013

Related Reading : Jaguar XJ History

The Jaguar XJ series began in 1968 and has continued in various forms and Series into modern times. The first Mark was introduced in 1968 and continued until 1992. During this time there were three series, Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3. In 1986 Jaguar introduced the Mark II which continued until 2002. During this time there were the XJ40, XJ81, X300, X305, and X308. The Mark III was introduced....
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Performance and Specification Comparison

Price Comparison

$3,000-$23,910
1978 XJ12L
$23,910-$109,800
1978 Jaguar XJ12L Base Price : $23,910

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Other 1978 Jaguar Models

Mark I Series II XJ12

Specification Comparison by Year

Year
Production
Wheelbase
Engine
Prices
2,732
108.80 in., 112.80 in.
12 cyl., 326.05 CID., 244.00hp
$14,900 - $15,650
108.80 in.
12 cyl., 326.05 CID., 244.00hp
$16,120 - $16,825
3,284
112.80 in.
12 cyl., 326.05 CID., 244.00hp
$23,910 - $23,910

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