JAGUAR

XJ12 X305

The XJ12 model (which, along with the short wheel base Daimler Double Six, carries the code name "X305") featured the same trim level of the Sovereign, but was powered by the 6.0 L version of the Jaguar V12 engine. It is visually differentiated by the rear boot-lid "XJ12" badge, a "V12" insignia inlaid on the passenger-side dashboard wood panel, a "V12" badge on each B-pillar, chromed door mirrors and a gold-coloured Jaguar crest at the top of the radiator grille surround. Only available transmission was a 4-speed automatic GM 4L80-E. In the US market, this generation of the XJ12 was available only as model years 1995 (which were all short-wheelbase) and 1996 (which were all long). The X305 was equipped with an On-Board Diagnostics System. However, it failed to fully meet the OBD-II specifications, which became mandatory for the 1996 model year in the US. With a special dispensation for that model year expired, no 1997 model year X305 models were sold in North America. In 2001, the United States EPA and Jaguar Cars entered into a settlement which extended the emissions warranty on 1995 and 1996 model year XJ12 sedans to 14 years or 150,000 miles, due to their non-compliant NipponDenso Engine Management System, which was unable to provide continuous misfire monitoring, a requirement for OBDII compliance. While the similar Daimler Double Six came with 225/60-16 tyres on 7-inch wheels and comfort suspension as standard, the XJ12 came with 225/55-16 tyres on 8-inch wide wheels and sports suspension, which explains the height difference between the two models. The last Jaguar to be powered by a V12 engine was a green LWB XJ12, registered P60 SOV which left the production line on 17 April 1997. It was placed in the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust museum in Coventry before its closure, and was moved to the Jaguar Collection at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon in Warwickshire.