Car price tracker
Track car prices and stay informed on market trends with our comprehensive car pricing tool. See historical prices and compare models to make an informed decision on your next vehicle purchase. Find the best deal on your dream car today!
Jaguar - XJ (1978)
Discover the timeless allure of the 1978 Jaguar XJ: The iconic “Heritage” body, the semi‑swept grille, and the unmistakable prestige that defined a generation. Whether you’re a collector or a brand‑new enthusiast, the 1978 Jaguar XJ is a benchmark in luxury mid‑size sedans.
For anyone searching for a *Jaguar XJ price*, the value spans a wide spectrum—from a once‑owned example on the road today to a pristine museum‑grade specimen. The core of the market sits around the early‑mid 23rd century dollars—though the final figures can vary by market, mileage, and condition.
- Engine: 4.2‑litre Supercharged 12‑valve V8
- Horsepower: 250 hp (≈186 kW) @ 4,400 rpm
- Torque: 300 lb‑ft (≈406 Nm) @ 2,000–4,400 rpm
- Transmission: 3‑speed automatic with over‑drive
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Length: 198 in (5,032 mm)
- Width: 78 in (1,991 mm)
- Height: 61 in (1,549 mm)
- Curb Weight: 3,100 lb (≈1,405 kg)
- Top Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
- 0‑60 mph: 7.9 sec
- Interior: High‑grade leather, walnut trim, electric climate control
- Key Features: Power‑steered steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, automatic climate controls, dual‑tone headlamps
Ask yourself: “What is a 1978 Jaguar XJ worth?” That answer depends on mileage, maintenance history, and provenance. The average *used Jaguar XJ price* typically falls between $12,000 – $25,000 for a well‑maintained example in the U.S., yet in the UK the range usually begins at £10,000. However, a meticulously restored 1978 XJ… can fetch upwards of £35,000 at auction.
Depreciation Insights
Understanding Jaguar XJ depreciation is essential for buyers and sellers alike. Like most classics, the 1978 model has experienced a gradual decline mainly after the first few years.
- First Year: 15‑20 % drop after the initial acquisition, reflecting urgency to sell a new quote or dealership deposit.
- Year 2‑5: 5‑10 % per year as the car ages within a less severe depreciation curve.
- Year 6‑10: 3‑5 % annual drop; the vehicle becomes “classic,” often avoiding the steep descent seen in non‑classic models.
- Beyond 10 years: Stable to mild appreciation for well‑maintained examples, especially those under 30,000 miles.
These estimates are derived from the broader historical trend across the Jaguar XJ line and comparable luxury sedans, such as the Mercedes-Benz E -Class 1976 and the BMW 5‑Series 1979. Note that the depreciation curve may flatten or even invert if the vehicle holds genuine originality.
Comparative Context
Below is how the 1978 Jaguar XJ compares to contemporary luxury companions:
- Mercedes‑E Class (1976‑1977 models) – Slightly better fuel economy but less powerful V8.
- BMW‑5‑Series (1979) – More modern chassis, but the XJ offers a richer interior feel.
- Rolls‑Royce Silver Shadow (1974‑1977) – Far superior luxury but commanding a higher depreciation curve.
- Cadillac‑Seville (1975‑1978) – More spacious but with less horsepower.
Thus, the 1978 Jaguar XJ rests somewhere between classic prestige and modern performance—perfect for buyers who value heritage and performance parity.
Market Position
The Jaguar XJ dominates the luxury mid‑size sedan market segment for collectors worldwide, with high demand in the U.S., U.K., and Japan. Its status as a fragile collector’s item is amplified by limited supply and a dedicated enthusiast network that invests heavily in maintenance, restoration, and tooling. The XJ’s reputation as "Black" (premium
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £17,250.00 | Unlock all links |