Highlights

An unrestored example retaining much of its original character
Has been in the current owner’s possession for 10 years, always stored in the garage
Jaguar Heritage certificate supplied with the vehicle
Engine reconditioned and adapted to run on unleaded petrol
Collector’s registration certificate with matching serial numbers

The appeal

Often confused with the Mk2, the S-Type featured Jaguar’s remarkable independent rear suspension system, borrowed from the E-Type. Whilst the Mk2 was synonymous with motor racing, the S-Type was technically the superior car, particularly in its top-of-the-range 3.8-litre MOD version. Painted in Opalescent Golden Sand on Light Beige, this is a particularly elegant example.

This left-hand-drive example, of French origin, was originally supplied by the Jaguar Royal-Élysées Delecroix dealership and has been owned by its current owner for a decade, having been acquired from a professional car restorer. It has never undergone a full restoration, and the seller describes it as standing out for its original condition, a quality that is increasingly rare on these cars. The engine has been overhauled and is reported to be running well, and several mechanical upgrades have been carried out over the years, as detailed below.

There are a few areas requiring attention, notably the clutch, the steering box and the rear brakes, and collection by a low-loader is recommended. Nevertheless, for the enthusiast looking for a genuine, largely original S-Type 3.8 with manual gearbox and overdrive, this car is well worth serious consideration.

Key details

Mileage: 55,000 km (as per odometer)
Country of registration: France
MOT status: expired (October 2025); the MOT was carried out prior to reclassification as a classic car, with a few minor faults noted
Technical specifications: 3.8-litre six-cylinder petrol engine, four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Documentation: Jaguar Heritage certificate available; partial service history dating from 2008; Collector’s Vehicle Registration Certificate

Details

Engine overhauled with cylinder lining, new valve seats and piston rings
Restored carburettors
Converted to a negative ground electrical system with electronic distributor fitted
Oil filter adapted to accept a modern cartridge
Fitted to run safely on unleaded petrol
New front brake discs and pads; rear brakes serviced 10,000 km ago
Overdrive in working order
The seller reports that the engine starts easily with normal oil pressure at all revs
Clutch lining and thrust bearing are nearing the end of their service life; the seller recommends replacement
Steering box has a slight amount of play at the input end; the seller recommends a service
Rear brakes apparently require assessment
Repainted in the original Opalescent Golden Sand colour without being fully stripped; original paintwork still visible in the engine compartment
A previous brake fluid leak has damaged the paintwork in the engine bay
A previous instance of corrosion blistering under the paintwork, reported to have been stable for 10 years
Original chrome with some signs of wear; a few impact marks on the grille
Headlining replaced and, according to the seller, in very good condition
All dashboard instruments reported to be in working order, including the restored clock
Wood trim in good condition with a cosmetic flaw on the glove box door
Original upholstery in good condition; some sun-faded areas on the rear seat backrest
Boot lining and trim appear worn
Modern car radio and electric telescopic aerial fitted
Electronic immobiliser fitted
Transport by low-loader recommended, according to the seller

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights under European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s terms and conditions.

✓ We require a non-refundable fee to be paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is sold ‘as is’, on an ‘as seen, where seen’ basis and without warranty. Photographs and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is standard practice to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final price of the bid or offer, as specified in the listing.

✓ We are just as keen as you are for the transaction to go smoothly, which is why cars and motorbikes registered in theand offered for sale on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they have no insurance database flags for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to any financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written-off following a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic, and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to assist you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status, and it is always advisable to carry out a full check of the vehicle’s history before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collecting or arranging delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company to assist you. For further details and to speak to the team, please email auctions@carandclassic.com.