Are all XJ12 engines distributor less? The reason I am asking is that I spotted a 94 XJ12 for sale and was wondering if I have to deal with the hassle of a distributor or does it have coil packs? I think the late model 6.O in the XJS all used distributors but I did not know if all the X305 and the XJ40 with the V12 used coil packs? Do you know the change over year for the coil packs?

 

As far as I know the only Jag V12 without a distributor was the 6.0 as fitted to the X305 sedans, 1995-96.

All other V12s used a distributor, including the XJ40 6.0 cars

Cheers
DD

 

I remember I was pleased when I learned way back that the X305 uses coil packs and not a distributor. The ignition system became essentially maintenance free then (save for 12 spark plugs)! I still think it was a great idea followed through to success. Too bad Jaguar (Ford) were set on replacing all the sixes and twelves with eights. The new V8 was just fine for the all new XK8, but I think they could have carried the 6/12s further towards 2000 in the XJ, with the X308 updates to interior and suspension.

And if they had, perhaps the "dark period" for the XJ could have been avoided to some degree. Maybe Ford could have profited from Jaguar if they didn't have to cover so many warranty engine replacements during those times. No way that would have happened with the AJ16 or V12!

Easy to say in hindsight of course, but at the time I'm sure there were many debates about where to take the Jaguar division in the late 90's. Certainly there was a lot of excitement surrounding both the new XK8 and the new V8 powerplant. Most of the leaders were looking for a fresh start I think.

But because of the decisions made at that time, we only got three years of the X300 and two of the X305 in the USA. Seems like the development of the distributorless ignition for the V12 doesn't make much sense, because they only ended up building about 3400 of them!

Ford used some of their existing products to accomplish the task, creatively using two six-pack coils and two ignition modules, working together in one engine. Anyhow, thanks Ford, for the nifty ignition system in the V12! This one feature did a lot to modernize the classic (and essentially outdated) Jaguar V12. With all due respect to those that keep the classics alive... may the 12 pot distributor rest in peace.