1972: The First Prototype

January

The first prototype body from Pressed Steel Fisher was available at the beginning of 1972. Throughout 1972, Jaguar started tests on the XJ27. They started with the front end impact passenger tests using an XJ12 to simulate the XJ27 positioning. E-type seats were used in place of the re-designed XJ27 seats, the front seat frame was to be modified from that of a Triumph Stag. Roof crush, safety belt anchorage and side impact tests were performed. The programme was starting to fall behind, due to concerns related to the instrument panel, as well as to the supply of bodies from Pressed Steel Fisher. As a result of this, the production date was moved back to the end of November 1974.

February

Sir William Lyons made the unprecedented decision to “hang up his hat” and retire from his life-long love affair with the company that he had created. Jaguar soon began to loose its identity; the central British Leyland board took over all decisions concerning the company. Sir William Lyons handed over the reins of power to “Lofty” England. By this time, the basic design features of the XJ27 had already been set in stone and agreed as the way forward.

November

Wind Tunnel testing began on the prototypes.  Jaguar continued to test the XJ-S throughout the 1970s as late as 1977.