The enduring XJ range was subtly re-styled and enhanced by Pininfarina in 1979. Now the Series III, it included modern flush mounted door handles, impact absorbing bumpers and a larger glass area. The luxurious interior was naturally updated too and included a trip computer. Under the bonnet, the 5.3-litre V12 now incorporated Bosch fuel injection. Just 10,500 Series III V12 models were made.
The ultimate luxury cruiser, this low mileage Jaguar has obviously been cared for by it’s four previous custodians, the last being since 1997. Described by the vendor as a “lovely example”, it looks wonderful in it’s coat of Jaguar Racing Green paintwork, and combined with a tasteful grey cabin, it has all the expected refinements that a top of the range Sovereign model offers.
Driven sparingly, this ‘proper’ British Jaguar V12 is extremely desirable and should offer a highly engaging driving experience. Very cool, it is also amazing value compared to any other V12, and should be a solid investment.
The History and Paperwork
First registered on the 28th November 1985
Pre-delivery inspection sheet from dealer’s Guy Salmon Ltd, Surrey
Last registered owner since 1997
V5 present (still in last owner’s name)
Jaguar wallet containing all the original handbooks
Service book contains 10 stamps primarily from Jaguar specialists
A selection of maintenance and parts invoices
Last known service by independent Jaguar specialists Tom Lenthal Ltd in 2016
Numerous old MOT’s present
Current ‘Pass’ MOT runs until the 11th April 2025
Currently untaxed
Garaged all it’s life
The 2006 MOT records a mileage of 53,920, so this Jaguar has travelled just 3,280 miles in the last 18 years.
The Condition
Comfortable Jaguar cabin is in superb condition
Excellent walnut dashboard and black trim
Great instrumentation and switchgear
Adjustable steering wheel
Trip computer and cruise control
Original radio/cassette
No reported electrical issues
An abundance of leather, chrome and wood door trims
Excellent grey leather upholstery with no visible damage
Great carpeting throughout
In true Jaguar style, the headlining may require attention in the future
Spacious fully carpeted boot with usable spare and original tool kit
Lovely glossy Jaguar Racing Green coachwork
Really straight body with no obvious dings down the sides
There are a few very minor scuffs, small scratches and touched-in areas
A patch of paint crazing to the offside rear passenger door is visible
Shiny presentable chrome work and badges
Clear windows, lights and mirror glass
Sound wheel arches and front and rear valences
Straight bumpers with great trim
The underside looks solid with no reported signs of welding
Very good silver/grey alloys
Four Dunlop SP Sport Super tyres are fitted with decent tread depths
The Mechanics
Clean engine compartment
Low mileage, smooth, naturally-aspirated 5.3-litre V12 HE
Electronic ignition and fuel injection
HE ‘high efficiency’ version
3-speed automatic transmission
Light power steering
Most recent service incl. new drive belt in 2016
Brakes overhauled in 2012 at 56,429 miles
The vendor informs us that there is a “ticking” from the exhaust flange gaskets upon start up but this gets much better when warmed up. He also states that this lovely original XJ12 “drives beautifully” and would indeed benefit from being driven regularly.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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