Jaguar XJ (X300)

Arriving soon after Ford completed its takeover, the X300 program was tasked with keeping Jaguar solvent and restoring its reputation for reliability. Engineers were instructed to solve the electrical and build-quality woes of the preceding XJ40 while cutting costs wherever possible. By re-engineering proven components, the X300 became a stop-gap rather than a ground-up redesign, yet it stabilised the marque without diluting its classic design language.

Styling chief Geoff Lawson re-established Jaguar’s retro cues that had been muted on the XJ40. A four-headlamp nose framed by chrome, a gently waisted “coke-bottle” flank and ornate brightwork gave the X300 a familiar elegance. Under the metal, the profile measured 1798 mm wide and 1349 mm tall—an athletic, low-roof stance inherited from the original 1968 XJ silhouette that aficionados instantly recognised.

While the body appeared traditional, Jaguar invested heavily in reworking every unseen component. Upgraded wiring harnesses, battery relocation, improved sealing and thicker paint were part of an all-out pursuit of durability. The venerable independent rear suspension carried over, but with revised geometry and upgraded bushings, delivering the ride-and-handling balance reviewers praised. Engine choices spanned the 3.2-litre and 4.0-litre inline-sixes, plus a supercharged 4.0-litre, ensuring the saloon could be both executive cruiser and discreet sports car.

Production ceased in 1997 after 92,038 cars had been built across standard, Sovereign and XJR variants. By modernising quality while preserving classic visuals, the X300 bridged troubled British ownership to a Ford-led future most buyers never noticed. Its success paved the way for the aluminium-intensive X308, cementing the X300’s role as the rescuer of the XJ lineage.