Jaguar's original XJ Saloon (retrospectively dubbed the Series I) and its Daimler counterparts were introduced in 1968 and were the last models to have the personal input of Jaguar's founder, Sir William Lyons.

The striking two-door pillarless Coupé derivative was first shown five years later, at the 1973 London Motor Show.

Production was heavily delayed, however, and did not get fully underway until 1975.

The newcomer was based on the short-wheelbase Saloon and featured suitably lengthened versions of the standard car's doors.

There were two engine options: a 4.2-litre version of the ubiquitous DOHC XK unit, and the 5.3-litre V12.

The smaller-engined version came with the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox.

The silky-smooth suspension was independent all round, braking by discs at each corner, and steering by rack and pinion.

A total of 10,426 Jaguar and Daimler Coupés were produced before production ceased in 1978.

Some 8,214 were furnished with the 4.2-litre engine.

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