The Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe is a classic luxury grand tourer that was produced by the British automaker Jaguar from 1975 to 1996. The car was designed as a successor to the Jaguar E-Type and aimed to combine performance, comfort, and style.

Development and Design:
The development of the XJS began in the late 1960s when work started on a replacement for the aging E-Type. However, due to changing safety and emission regulations, as well as financial constraints, the launch of the XJS was delayed until 1975.

The design of the XJS was a departure from the sleek, curvaceous lines of the E-Type. It was more angular and had a long, sweeping roofline. The car featured a prominent grille, quad headlights, and a distinctive flying buttress rear pillar design. The XJS was initially offered as a coupe, and later a convertible version was introduced.

V12 Engine:
One of the highlights of the XJS was its engine. The car was initially powered by a 5.3-liter V12 engine, which was later upgraded to a 6.0-liter V12 in some models. The V12 engine provided smooth and powerful performance, making the XJS a capable grand tourer. The car's suspension and handling were also tuned for a comfortable and refined driving experience.

Evolution and Changes:
Over its production run, the Jaguar XJS underwent several updates and changes. In the late 1980s, significant styling revisions were made to modernize the car's appearance. These changes included new bumpers, a revised rear end, and updated interior features.

In the 1990s, further improvements were made, including the introduction of a 4.0-liter inline-six engine as an alternative to the V12. This helped make the XJS more accessible to a broader market.

Legacy:
The Jaguar XJS V12 Coupe is considered a classic and has a devoted fan base. While it faced criticism for its departure from the iconic E-Type design, the XJS has gained recognition for its long-distance touring capabilities, luxury features, and, of course, the powerful V12 engine.

Despite being produced for over two decades, the XJS maintained a certain level of exclusivity, and well-maintained examples are sought after by collectors today. The car's distinctive design and luxurious features contribute to its status as a classic Jaguar model.