Jaguar to reproduce iconic XK straight-six engine

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 30.06.2020

Need a new replacement engine for your Series I E-Type? Jaguar can help with that

This week Jaguar announced that it will be restarting production of the iconic and lauded XK straight-six (or XK6) engine, first designed in 1949.

It was this engine that was responsible for powering many of the brand’s iconic road and race cars throughout the 50s and 60s, and will be offered brand new once again as they re-enter production under exacting original specifications.

• What's it worth? Jaguar 1949-1975 Market Review

While the XK6 engine originally debuted as a 3.4lt unit, the new cast-iron blocks will serve as a direct replacement for the 3.8lt XK straight-six found under the bonnets of models such as the XK150, Mk IX, Series I E-Type and S-Type.

For discerning Jaguar customers who value their car's originality, Jaguar will even have the factory stamp your car’s original engine number on to the new replacement unit, if you can provide proof of ownership of course. An asterisk will also be stamped beside original engine numbers marking the block as a replacement.

Engine blocks will be priced from £14,340 each, which equates to a hefty AU$25,650; but is covered by a 12-month Jaguar parts & accessories warranty (voided if used for motorsport purposes), and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Jaguar Classic.

While the price may be high for most of us, manufacturer support for our beloved classics is always great to see. Conversely, Jaguar also offer a completely bolt-in and reversible electric powerplant designed to fit in a entirely unmodified engine bay of an E-type.

We know which one we’d be going for.

Classic Australian Family Car Value Guide home page

Muscle Car Value Guide home page

Japanese Classic Car Value Guide home page

Recent auction results

Unique Cars magazine Value Guides

Sell your car for free right here