1980 Jaguar Background Info
The 1980 Jaguar Vibe
In 1980, Jaguar was at a crossroads, trying to marry old-world luxury with a new decade of "Executive" prestige. Whether you were piloting a Series III XJ6 or the V12-powered XJS, you weren't just driving; you were making a statement in shades like Damson Red or the quintessential Racing Green Metallic. We've curated the 6 definitive colors from this transition year-from the doctors-office-safe Tudor White to the surprisingly bold Cotswold Yellow. These weren't just cars; they were rolling memberships to the country club, and the paint was the primary dues.
Paint Health Check
Welcome to the peak of the Single Stage Era. Back in '80, the factory was layering on Thermoplastic Acrylic like it was going out of style. It looked like a mile-deep mirror on the showroom floor, but there's a catch: this paint is "alive" and it's hungry for oxygen. Without a modern clear coat to act as a shield, your Platinum Metallic or Poseidon Green is prone to "chalking"-that white, powdery oxidation that makes a Jaguar look more like a blackboard. If the finish looks dull and feels like a sidewalk, the sun has literally cooked the oils out of your pigment.
Restoration Tip
The golden rule for 1980 paint? It needs wax or it dies. If you're planning to use our touch-up to fix a chip, you can't just dab it onto a surface that's currently oxidizing. You need to level the playing field first. Use a fine polishing compound to rub away that "chalky" dead layer of paint until the true color shines through. Once you've hit fresh pigment, apply your touch-up, let it cure, and then seal the entire panel with a high-quality carnauba wax. Think of it as moisturizer for a 40-year-old cat; keep it hydrated, or the finish will continue to craze and crack.