Jaguar XJ6

The 1979 UK model range included the Jaguar XJ6 3.4 & 4.2, XJ12 5.3, Daimler Sovereign 4.2, Daimler Vanden Plas 4.2, Daimler Double-Six 5.3 and Daimler Double-Six Vanden Plas 5.3. In 1981 the 5.3 V12 models received the new Michael May designed ‘fireball’ high compression cylinder head engines and were badged from this time onwards to 1983 as HE (High efficiency) models. Also in 1981 a top spec Vanden Plas model was introduced for the US market, a model designation still used today for the top-level XJ saloon in the US. In 1982 the interior of the used Jaguar XJ underwent a minor update. A trip computer appeared for the first time and was fitted as standard on V12 models. A new and much sought-after alloy wheel featuring numerous distinctive circular holes was also introduced, commonly known as the “pepperpot” wheel. In 1983 the Sovereign name was transferred from Daimler to a new top spec Jaguar model, the Jaguar Sovereign. The Vanden Plas name was also dropped at this time in the UK market, as the designation was used on top-of-the-range Rover cars in the home UK market. Daimler models became the Daimler 4.2 and Double Six and were the most luxurious XJ Series III models, being fully optioned with Vanden Plas spec interiors.