Description
This 1989 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible is an appealing running and driving project with one particularly important advantage: an exceptionally solid and rust-free body and underside. Finished in Satin Beige Metallic, it has covered 88. 096 miles and combines Jaguar’s elegant late-eighties styling with the 5. 3 litre V12.
The car spent much of its life in the dry climates of Colorado and Texas. According to the VIN report, it had two previous owners, was registered in Colorado in 1995 and moved to Texas in 2012. Registration was last renewed in 2015. The report contains no recorded accident damage, and the car shows no obvious signs of significant previous accident repair.
Its dry-climate history is particularly noticeable underneath. The body, floors, sills and underside are exceptionally solid and rust-free, making this a much better starting point than many XJS restoration projects.
After a period of storage and a fuel delivery problem, the Jaguar has recently been brought back to running and driving condition. The 5. 3 litre V12 runs on all twelve cylinders, responds well to the throttle and shows good oil pressure. The cooling system functions correctly and the known V12 coolant crossover pipe has recently been replaced. Engine temperature remains stable during operation.
Further mechanical recommissioning is still required. Some vacuum leaks are present and the idle requires further attention. Considering the period of limited use, a general service and mechanical check-over would also be advisable before regular road use.
Cosmetically, the car requires restoration. The Satin Beige Metallic paint still presents reasonably from a distance, but the clear coat has deteriorated significantly on parts of the rear bodywork and there is also paint deterioration on the bonnet.
The interior is in poor condition and needs substantial restoration. Both front seats are heavily deteriorated, with torn upholstery and exposed foam. Carpets and several trim panels require replacement or refurbishment, while the wood veneer is heavily aged and cracked. The interior is nevertheless largely complete, with the dashboard, instruments and most original fittings still present.
The electrically operated convertible top mechanism works, but the hydraulic system is leaking and will require an overhaul. The canvas top itself has deteriorated with age and should be replaced. The electric windows operate slowly and would benefit from cleaning, lubrication and adjustment.
The attraction of this XJS is therefore not cosmetic perfection, but its unusually sound structural basis. It is a largely original, rust-free V12 Convertible with a running engine, good oil pressure and functioning cooling system. The remaining work is mainly a combination of further mechanical recommissioning and cosmetic restoration rather than structural body repair.
An interesting proposition for an enthusiast looking for a solid and complete XJS to improve step by step rather than a fully restored example.
The Jaguar comes with a Texas US title and EU import document confirming that import duties have been paid. Inspections are welcome by appointment in the Netherlands. Door-to-door transport can be arranged throughout Europe. More pictures and videos on request.
