Jaguar XJS History
Catalog record
This is a brief catalog introduction with limited source documentation. A licensed, identity-checked lead photograph has not yet been added for this page. Detailed year, configuration and ownership coverage must be identified separately; this page is not a complete vehicle catalog.
Start with a make and model. Add a year where a detailed guide is available.
Model history available. Detailed year guides are not published for this model.
Browse this model's history and yearsHistory
The XJ-S (later styled XJS) replaced the E-Type in 1975 as a refined grand tourer rather than an outright sports car, built on a shortened XJ saloon platform and noted for its prominent 'flying buttress' rear pillars. It launched with the 5.3-litre V12 into the teeth of a fuel crisis.
Slow at first, it was rescued by improvements including the 'High Efficiency' V12 of 1982 and the addition of six-cylinder AJ6 models and a convertible. Across more than 20 years some 115,000 were built before the XJS gave way to the XK8 in 1996.
Body styles
- Coupe
- Convertible
- Cabriolet (fixed-profile)
Notable special editions & performance variants
XJS V12 6.0
Late cars offered an enlarged 6.0-litre version of the V12.
Related models
Collect the nameplate
Find a scale model of the Jaguar XJS
Search Amazon across available years, colors, and scales. Exact releases vary, so confirm the listing before ordering.