For years, the Jaguar XJ6 rear suspension has been the go-to choice for South African hot rods and street rods. Builders loved the idea of grabbing an independent rear suspension out of a Jag and bolting it into their projects. At the time, it was one of the few readily available “performance” suspension options locally.
But let’s be real—what worked in the 80s and 90s doesn’t necessarily make sense today. The XJ6 suspension is old technology, bulky, expensive to refurbish, and in most cases, a poor fit for the vehicles it’s being thrown under.
Old Technology, Old Problems
When it first appeared, Jaguar’s independent rear suspension with inboard discs looked futuristic. But in 2025, it’s outdated and impractical. Today’s BMW and even Isuzu suspensions are better engineered, stronger, and far easier to service.
The Jag unit, on the other hand, is heavy, awkward to work on, and requires specialist knowledge. What used to feel like an upgrade now feels like dragging your project backward.
Too Big for the Classics
One of the biggest issues? Size and bulk. The Jag suspension looks out of place under smaller cars from the 30s and 40s. Those classic Fords and Chevs were never meant to carry that kind of weight, and the proportions simply don’t match. Instead of enhancing the build, it often makes it look clumsy and over-engineered.
Overkill for Pickups
Many builders also push XJ6 suspensions under 50s pickups like the ’57–’59 Chevrolet Apache. On paper, it sounds good—independent rear, disc brakes, prestige parts. But the reality is the Jag was designed for a heavy luxury sedan. The weight difference between a full-sized Jaguar saloon and a classic pickup means the suspension is mismatched. You end up with an overkill setup that doesn’t ride or handle the way you’d hope.
The Cost Trap
Yes, you might score a used suspension for around R5,000 if you’re lucky. But getting it roadworthy is another story. You’ll need to replace:
- Bushes
- Shocks
- Brake discs and pads
- Bearings and seals
By the time you’re done, your “cheap upgrade” has turned into a serious money pit—costing you two to three times more than modern alternatives.
Modern Alternatives That Make Sense
Instead of clinging to old British tech, look at what’s available today:
- BMW: Advanced independent suspension, lighter and more responsive, perfect for performance builds.
- Isuzu: Tough, simple, and built to take punishment. Easy to maintain, with parts available everywhere.
Both options fit better with modern expectations for handling, reliability, and cost control.
Bottom Line
The Jaguar XJ6 suspension might have been the dream swap in the past, but it’s time to admit it’s no longer the king. For hot rods, it’s bulky. For 30s and 40s builds, it’s out of proportion. For pickups, it’s overkill. And for your wallet—it’s a trap.
If you’re serious about building a car that drives as good as it looks, leave the Jag suspension in the scrapyard and choose something modern, smarter, and better suited to your project.
