Description
The hand-built JaguarSport XJR-S 6. 0-litre V12 was developed from the Jaguar XJ-S to emphasise its sporting character, without compromising refinement or luxury.
JaguarSport was founded in 1988 as a 50/ 50 joint venture between Jaguar and Tom Walkinshaw Racing (“TWR”), following the success of the TWR prepared Jaguar XJ-S models in early 1980s Touring Car racing. The XJR-S was built by TWR engineers at its factory in Kidlington and whilst the early XJR-S used the standard XJ-S’s 5. 3-litre V12 engine, in late 1989 the XJR-S first used the TWR built 6. 0-litre V12. This enlarged V12 delivered 333 bhp and 365lb ft of torque (the standard 5. 3-litre V12 made 286 bhp and 310 lb-ft of torque). Its enhanced power, styling and handling made it the most driver-focused factory sanctioned XJ-S derivative and launched Jaguar’s 36-year lineage of official R-badged road cars.
Finished in Crystal Blue Metallic with black piped Magnolia Connolly Autolux hide, this example is one of the best we have seen.
With just 115 RHD XJR-S models built, this example is even rarer, being just one of two XJR-S 6. 0 V12s, to have received the Knowles Wilkins Engineering’s (KWE) “Major Specification” package. When this car was worked on, KWE was one of the UK’s best-known Jaguar XJ-S and XJ series specialists in the UK.
The KWE “Major Specification” package consisted of a comprehensive programme of restoration, performance and handling upgrades and was completed in July 2018 at a cost of £62, 000.
Since restoration, it has covered just 10, 879 miles. Its history includes records of 34 services to date and numerous maintenance and parts invoices spanning its lifetime.
Featured in November 2025 Jaguar Driver’s Club magazine, the car comes with an MOT valid until August 2027, its Heritage Certificate, all handbooks and service booklet in a Magnolia leather wallet. Also included is a documented record of KWE’s work, which includes a photographic restoration record on a USB stick. The car also comes with several JaguarSport XJR-S brochures, two books covering the XJ-S and its derivatives and a bespoke seven-piece JaguarSport TWR-embossed soft luggage set—ideal for extended touring.
The KWE Restoration – A Defining Feature
One of the most significant aspects of this car is its KWE certified “Major Specification” restoration, performance and handling upgrades. KWE’s work is documented by a signed certificate from Managing Director Chris Knowles, confirming that the car was rebuilt to the following major specification and completed on 19 July 2018:
- KWE S1 suspension, brakes and steering restoration and upgrade
- V12 full engine rebuild, including cooling system renewal
- PT (Plus Torque) Power Enhancement package
The PT conversion was engineered to significantly improve mid-range torque, throttle response and on road overtaking power comprising:
(i) Larger throttle bodies and air intakes
(ii) High torque manifold
(iii) Upgraded OMEX digital engine management and re-mapping (replacing the original Zytek system)
- Full bare-metal re-spray in Crystal Blue Metallic
- Cavity wax injection and full underseal renewal
- Full air conditioning system renewal
- Renewed wood veneers in European burr walnut
- Renewed carpets in Powder Blue, including the boot
- Modern Bluetooth/ DAB/ CD stereo system with upgraded 6” speakers
- Flush-fit, colour-coded rear parking sensors
- Full interior leather reconditioning and re-dyeing
- Complete electrical system renovation
Collectively, the work costing £62, 000, leaves a fully restored car, that retains its JaguarSport character but offers improved performance, handling and reliability over the original 6. 0 V12 XJR-S.
Specification & Options
Whist the car has benefitted from a comprehensive KWE works package, the car retains the equipment that made the XJR-S special, including:
- XJR-S embossed headrests and JaguarSport-specific piped and stitched Connolly Autolux hide
- Momo of Milan sports steering wheel
- Etched stainless steel treadplates
- 8x16 Speedline aerodynamic light alloy wheels
- Air conditioning, cruise control and multi-function trip computer
- Heated front seats, heated screen washers and headlamp wash-wipe
Provenance & Rarity
One of just 115 right-hand-drive examples built. As a genuine factory model, not an individually tuned TWR car, it holds a special place in Jaguar’s grand touring heritage. Its blend of enhanced V12 performance, handling, rarity and factory-developed refinement makes the XJR-S 6. 0 V12 one, if not the most sought-after derivative of the whole factory XJ-S range. In addition, as one of just two to have benefitted from KWE’s “Major Specification” restoration and upgrade package, it is something very special indeed. Combined with a comprehensive and continuous maintenance history, its bespoke luggage set also adds a distinctive and practical finishing touch.
Together, these attributes present this example as a compelling opportunity for the discerning collector or Jaguar enthusiast alike: a very rare XJR-S with provenance, individuality and the enduring appeal of a V12 grand tourer.
For a full written description, over 100 HD photos and 3 walkaround and engine sound videos, please visit our website or feel free to call us on the no. in the advert title above.
