The Jaguar XJS 2+2 grand tourer is touted for its refinement and handling. However, the modified 1978 XJS coupe recently for sale on eBay gave up some of its Connolly leather and burled walnut luxury. Yes, it retains its beautiful original lines, but enhanced power is now the main attraction.
The hand-built XJS is a work of automotive art. The ’78 Jag was rebuilt on an engineering platform created by legendary Tom Walkinshaw Racing - opens in new window or tab., a longtime Jaguar partner and championship racing team. The car is set up for vintage racing, although it’s reportedly still street legal.
Racing Parts Swapped In
The race-worthy Jag listed on eBay was built by a Florida-based Englishman who raced Jaguars for decades. Power comes from a 6.0-liter Jaguar V-12, as the car had when it left the factory. But the engine in this XJS was maxed out for performance and reliability.
The long list of modifications include:
- Competition head gaskets - opens in new window or tab.
- Cross-ram EFI intake and upgraded fuel injection - opens in new window or tab.
The transmission is a Tremec - opens in new window or tab. TKO 600 five-speed manual with a custom aluminum flywheel and Tilton triple plate clutch - opens in new window or tab.. There’s a custom carbon-fiber driveshaft and 3.31 power lock differential providing power to the wheels.
The fully adjustable front suspension uses a combination of Jaguar and NASCAR-type components. There's a Wilwood - opens in new window or tab. six-caliper Corvette brake system. The rear suspension is a Jaguar triangular design but modified for racing with tubular rear half shafts. The steering rack is from an Aston Martin and uses a custom steering column.
Comfort Out, Cockpit In
Inside, the cockpit is strictly business. The builders kept weight to a minimum by stripping the interior of anything that doesn’t serve a purpose.
The carpeting, headliner, insulation, and original interior trim were axed. In their place, there's a full roll cage and two racing seats with harnesses. A custom fabricated dashboard uses Stepper gauges - opens in new window or tab.. The trunk carries a 31-gallon fuel cell - opens in new window or tab.. And the car is equipped with a fire-suppression system for safety.
Images from the eBay listing show the high degree of craftsmanship and quality that went into the build.
Beautifully finished in racing silver paint and priced at $49,000, this gorgeous and hand-built race car has yet to see track time. There are merely 300 miles showing since the build.
The head-turning 1978 Jaguar XJS is ready for high-speed antics on the track. But the best part about owning this high-performance Jaguar may be the ability to drive it on the street legally. Trips to the grocery store would never be the same.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.