In 1985, car shoppers in America had the option of purchasing a V12-engined coupe at a fraction of the cost of a Ferrari or Lamborghini by choosing the Jaguar XJ-S. Recently, a 1985 Jaguar XJ-S was discovered in a junkyard in Denver, Colorado.
Jaguar’s history of bolting V12 engines into their vehicles dates back to the early 1970s when they introduced the E-Type with a V12 engine. The XJ-S, introduced in 1976, was the successor to the E-Type and featured a V12 engine. The production of the XJ-S continued until 1996.
The 1985 Jaguar XJ-S was equipped with a DOHC 5.3-liter engine, known as the HE, producing 262 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. This power output was impressive for its time, outperforming other luxury coupes like the new Corvette and the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC.
The original price of the 1985 Jaguar XJ-S was $36,000, which would be equivalent to around $107,170 in 2024. This pricing made the XJ-S a more affordable option compared to other European luxury coupes of the time.
However, the Jaguar XJ-S was known for its expensive-to-fix electrical and mechanical problems, making it challenging for third or fourth owners to maintain. Some owners even opted to replace the V12 engine with a small-block Chevrolet V8 due to the maintenance costs.
The XJ-S featured a luxurious interior with soft leather, rare wood paneling, and complete luxury amenities. It was a blend of art and machine that Jaguar was proud of, as evidenced by their iconic TV commercial featuring a mid-1970s Playboy Bunny climbing into one.
Despite its maintenance challenges, the 1985 Jaguar XJ-S remains a classic gem that offers a glimpse into the luxury and power of V12-engined coupes of the 1980s. The recent discovery of one in a junkyard serves as a reminder of its place in automotive history and the allure of owning a piece of Jaguar’s legacy.