Description
Jaguar production was never as rapid especially when it came to new models and it’s true that delays seemed to extend once under the BL management. That said, following on from the outgoing E Type Series 3 with a Malcolm Sayer design that had been on the drawing board (XJ27) for almost a decade was certainly a radical departure from all that had gone before. The base for this Grand Tourer already existed on the platform of the short wheelbase XJ12 and after the passing of Sayer in 1970 the ‘in house’ team led by Doug Thorpe continued with the very fashionable (at the time) lines including concave rear window and rectangular headlights (although Stateside examples were fitted with four sealed beam units). A luxury coupe with the emphasis on refinement not necessarily a replacement for the E Type, not even a sports car but a GT that has outlasted its detractors. The proceeding years would see the XJ-S enjoy more plaudits; whilst never carrying the status of ‘beautiful’ its proportions and low line certainly gave the model some attitude with an individual style that the world of cinema picked up on. The XJS stepped up when an all new ‘Saint’ appeared on our TV’s whilst the movies list is almost endless; from the Wolf of Wall St to Speed (the one with the bus), Scent of a Women and even Death Race 2 to name but a few … the XJS never went unnoticed. The original car was announced with the awesome V12 with Borg-Warner Model 12 Auto transmission and a manual option which was soon discontinued. Early examples featured the boot lid lower section painted in black as does the example for sale here.
Country Classic Cars are very pleased to offer on behalf of the current custodian this 1975 Jaguar XJ-S V12 LHD finished in White with the delightful contrasting interior trim in ‘Russet’. Despatched 19th December 1975 on route to supplying dealership in Jacksonville Florida. The Heritage trust confirm this chassis was within the first year of production and the 1230th example built. The final ‘Stateside’ owner has penned details of his time with the car explaining it had been part of his collection for 25 years prior to it being exported back into Europe. He had purchased it from the family of the previous owner in North Carolina who had acquired the XJS from the original owner from the mid 70’s. After leaving Florida the car spent most of its life in North Carolina but had enjoyed longer trips to Virginia but was mainly used locally and his letter states he believes the low mileage to be correct. Prior to export the car enjoyed a full brake rebuild and a fresh starter motor and received export approval from Wilkesboro NC vehicle department 9th December 2016. By the following February 9th it was in the hands of Dutch classic restoration and repair specialists ‘The Classic Way’ in Soest, Netherlands. A three-page invoice translates to full service, bonnet lifters, battery, brake overhaul, steering rack, all lubricants, ball joint, shock absorbers, hoses and much more. September 2022 and import/ export documents from TB Auctions Amsterdam detail the current custodian in Hampshire who has enjoyed the XJ-S over the past 4 years but adding limited milage which currently stands at 39680. August last year saw Thruxton Jaguar carry out a vehicle inspection, complete wiring repair, replenish grease points, replace gearbox mount and battery also bleed brakes.
Country Classic Cars supply vehicles both across the UK and often overseas therefore we look to detail (see images) any issues we note to avoid buyer disappointment where possible. The exterior of this XJ-S enjoys straight panels with precise gaps, the white finish is very clean although a quality compound/ polish would improve still further. Small details include a slight tear in the drivers window scraper rubber and whilst we were not able to locate a single stone chip to the frontal area we did find two very small star indents on the back edge of the bonnet, one would suggest the bonnet has been closed onto something. A thumb sized bruise to the driver’s door (no doubt car park injury) and under paint blemish on both near and offside rear quarter panel lower sections whilst the n/ s also features a bruise and two small outward indents below the bumper line. Underneath confirms this car has been kept dry and warm during its lifetime, chassis and floor panels are clean and solid as are the unmarked wheel arches. The original Kent style wheels are as new or recently restored to perfect appearance and fitted with Laramie (USA?) tyres that offer little wear.
The cabin is a delight, the leather trim presents well with a light ‘Connolising’ to improve, other luxuries include electric windows, temp control, interior security locking and original radio. Not much to fault with the interior apart from wear noted on the driver’s carpet which could either be replaced or even benefit from a rubber ‘heal’ section fitted over affected area. Gauges and switches operated correctly when tested and the dash top trim, roof lining and door cards all present well.
The engine bay is clean but offers hours of buffing for those chasing show standard, original factory decals are retained on both front panel and door shuts whilst the battery (located in the boot) enjoys a screw isolator. There is a driver’s handbook, workshop manual and original brochure within the history file. A short test drive confirmed the V12 started readily enough and settled to 50lbs oil pressure at idle, the assisted steering requires fingertip effort at low speeds and the gear changes proved notably slick even from cold. Listed as a GT the XJ-S is certainly the coupe for touring, comfortable and smooth with a turn of pace when required but most enjoyable covering those miles at a leisurely pace before attracting interest at the village local or even the Piazza San Marco in Venice.
For additional information please message with your email address for any detailed images required; we can forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are often kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and can arrange test drives.
