Highlights
- Only 59,370 miles in 39 years
- Very smart and well-presented example
- Good history file
- Superb interior
THE APPEAL
A 5.3-litre V12 might not sound like the obvious engine to be christened ‘High Efficiency’ but that’s what the initials stood for on the July 1981-on Jaguar XJ-S HE.
The company’s new High-Efficiency V12 engine offered much better fuel economy – albeit relative at around 18mpg. With a Fire Ball combustion chamber designed by Swiss Engineer Michael May, power output was increased 295bhp. At the same time, the XJ-S HE received changes to its exterior and interior, with HE models identifiable by their body-coloured boot trim and five-spoke alloys.
Today, the HE models are among the more collectable XJS derivatives – more efficient than the earliest cars but still retaining their classic looks. This one was supplied new to a landowner in Northern Scotland, where it spent most of its life – yet it has survived incredibly for a car from Perthshire and is presented for sale in lovely order, having had some cosmetic work and regular maintenance over the years, but never restored.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Comprehensive history file
- Supplied new by SMT Jaguar of Greenock
- First three owners were a business and two of its owners
- Original green Jaguar book pack
- RAC welcome letter from 1984
- Selection of old MOTs
- Previous blue V5
- Jaguar document wallet
- UK V5C
- MOT March 2023
- Photographs from previous ownership
THE INTERIOR
- Grey leather
- Immaculate seats, carpets and trim
- No wear to seat bolsters
- Original ‘rotunda’ dials
- Original tool kit and spare wheel carpet
- Trip computer
- Air conditioning
- Superb wood veneers
- Cruise control
- Electric windows
- Original Jaguar radio-cassette player in full working order
THE EXTERIOR
- Smart Regent Grey metallic
- Original HE alloys with good Michelin tyres
- Very good paintwork
- Seemingly solid underneath and Waxoyl protected
- Good sills
- All original chrome and trim in good order throughout
THE MECHANICS
- 5.3-litre V12
- 4-spd auto
- Lucas electronic ignition
- Full stainless steel exhaust system
- Starts and runs well
- Good steering, brakes and suspension
- No warning lights on dash
- Vendor reports that the car drives with no known faults
- Most recently serviced in March 2022 at 58,942 miles
SUMMARY
This is a really lovely example of one of the most important XJSs – a terrific car with a nice history file, presented in very smart condition and with an absolutely immaculate interior that hides its 39 years of use beautifully. Smart XJSs are highly prized, and this one is a really nice example, as well as being a V12 HE, which to many fans is the one to have.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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