Jaguar XJ-S specialist

“The XJ-S is often misunderstood. When properly maintained and set up, it is one of the most capable and refined classic Jaguars.”

Expert services for Jaguar’s grand tourer

Copthorne Classics is a family-run Jaguar specialist with extensive experience across Jaguar XJ-S models, from early V12 cars through to later six-cylinder variants.

The XJ-S is often misunderstood. When properly maintained and set up, it is one of the most capable and refined classic Jaguars – a true grand tourer designed for long-distance use. Our role is to unlock that capability, ensuring each car performs reliably and as intended.

We provide complete care for Jaguar XJ-S models, from routine servicing and fault-finding through to full restoration, engine rebuilds and long-term development.

A Jaguar XJ-S specialist in real-world use

Unlike more delicate classics, the XJ-S was built to be driven. Many cars remain in regular use, and our approach reflects this – with a strong focus on reliability, drivability and usability in modern conditions.

We work across both V12 and six-cylinder cars, with detailed understanding of the systems that define how these cars perform – from cooling and fuelling to suspension, braking and electrical architecture.

Whether resolving long-standing issues or maintaining a well-sorted example, our aim is always the same: a car that starts, runs and drives as it should, every time.

Jaguar XJ-S services

We offer a complete range of services for Jaguar XJ-S models, all carried out in-house and tailored to the needs of each car.

Routine servicing and maintenance form the foundation of dependable ownership, particularly for cars used regularly. Alongside this, we undertake full engine rebuilds for both V12 and six-cylinder engines, from standard specification through to fast road development, with an emphasis on smooth power delivery and long-term reliability.

We also carry out full and partial restorations, including structural work, mechanical systems and detailed reassembly. Projects can be planned and delivered in stages where required, with clear visibility on scope, timing and cost.

Specialist knowledge extends to carburation and fuel injection systems, cooling system upgrades, suspension and braking overhaul, and electrical systems – from fault-finding through to complete loom replacement. Each area is addressed with a focus on producing a car that feels refined, dependable and ready for regular use.

“We offer a range of upgrade programmes designed to enhance performance, usability and long-distance comfort.”

Restomods and performance development

The XJ-S is particularly well suited to sympathetic restomod development.

We offer a range of upgrade programmes designed to enhance performance, usability and long-distance comfort. This can include improved cooling systems, braking and suspension upgrades, ignition and fuelling improvements, and carefully developed engine builds – including tuned six-cylinder and V12 configurations.

Our approach is always measured. The aim is not to change the nature of the car, but to realise its full potential as a grand tourer – smoother, more reliable and more rewarding to drive.

A workshop built for long-term ownership

All work is carried out at our dedicated facility, with in-house engine building, machining capability and restoration bays. This allows us to maintain full control over quality across every stage of a project.

Many of the XJ-S models we look after remain with us over the long term, with ongoing servicing, refinement and development forming part of their ownership.

Talk to a Jaguar XJ-S specialist

Whether you are maintaining a well-used XJ-S, planning a restoration or exploring a restomod project, we are always happy to discuss your requirements.

Our Services

Engine Rebuilds

Our in-house engine shop is equipped to take care of all tasks from light machining to full recommissioning. We specialise in Jaguar, Aston Martin and Lotus but our expertise extends to other classic British marques.
Carburation & Fuelling

We can make sure your Weber, SU, Stromberg or Dellorto carburettors are running properly – and look the part too, right up to concours preparation. We also offer conversions to manual choke or aftermarket fuel injection.
Gearbox & Drivetrain

We’re experienced in servicing and full rebuilds, plus conversion – either from manual to automatic or to more modern options to help with reliability or distance driving. Moss and Borg Warner gearboxes are a speciality.
Brakes & Suspension

An area of particular importance given the relaxation of MoT rules for classic cars, we are able not only to fix an issues that arise but also to carry out regular checks and inspections to ensure your vehicle is as safe as possible.
Electrics & Wiring

From chasing gremlins to full loom replacements – plus upgrades to make use discreet use of modern accessories – our team understands even the most complex or problematic systems found on older British cars.here
Servicing & Tuning

We respect that many of our customers like to roll up their sleeves, so we can offer maintenance ranging from seasonal checks in lieu of MoT for exempt cars through to major servicing and overhaul. We also offer tuning.
Restomods & Conversions

Want something different? We have carried out transformational rebuilds on Jaguar E-Type, Mk2, XJS and XJ and Daimler equivalents. We can source donor cars or work with your own vehicle. Call us to discuss your plans.
Restoration & Race Preparation

Copthorne Classics takes on larger restoration projects, including welding, bodywork preparation and finishing. We also undertake race and rally support – at home and at events. Contact us for details.