A large capacity V12 engine roaring from under the bonnet with the roof down in sunny weather as you’re cruising down to the local pub. If that sounds like a good way to spend an afternoon, then this 1988 Jaguar XJS may be just what you need.
Finished in a gorgeous metallic bronze akin to Antelope Metallic Clearcoat, this car is quite the looker. Though under the shell, it hides an even more impressive and attractive fact about itself. During several years, this car lived in France where it was restored from 2012 to 2015 to an excellent condition, with all work valuing roughly 40,000€.
Today, the car sits in Henley waiting for its next owner to pick it up and enjoy it as it deserves to be.
History and Paperwork
● First registered in 1988
● 11 owners from new
● Spent several years in France
● Extensive restoration undertaken in France around 2013
● Total cost of work around 40,000€
● Many photos as proof of work done
● Full, specialist service history
● Original owner’s manuals included in sale
● MOT until April 2023
● V5c with the car
The Interior
● Gorgeous caramel leather and wood trim mix
● Presents excellently
● Original interior trim
Despite an extensive restoration, this 1988 Jaguar XJS interior is very original with the same gorgeous caramel leather seats as when it left the factory. These fit perfectly with the dark woo trim that adorns much of the cabin from the door cards to the dashboard and even the steering wheel.
In places where wood doesn’t cover the surface, impeccable black leather trim provides an excellent contrast to the otherwise very brown interior.
The original carpets have a few lumps and bumps due to wear, especially around the pedal box and some light creasing can be seen on the front seats. The rear bench however looks almost unused in a slightly darker shade and the majority of the buttons around the steering wheel and centre console too look in fabulous shape.
Very elegant dials can be seen behind the steering wheel and a quick nosey at the stalks will discover the presence of cruise control. Along with the automatic transmission evident form the long selector rising from the centre console, this XJS must be an excellent cruiser.
A boot in great condition also is where one would find the battery with a cut-off switch, the spare wheel and toolkit.
The Exterior
● Long, sleek XJS styling
● Beautiful metallic bronze paint
● Excellent condition
A hefty 40,000€ restoration focussing on the mechanics and bodywork have meant it looks almost pristine. Invoices state the car had rust removed, several parts were restored or replaced, and the entire body was stripped and resprayed. The soft top roof was also replaced.
The result is a car with gorgeous paint work and very little signs of damage. The underside looks in very good condition while badges and chrome trim pieces are, for the most part looking as good as new.
The owner does point out some rust bubbles on the boot and some photos reveal a scratched front Jaguar V12 badge.
Elsewhere, a tonneau cover comes with the car protecting the interior whenever the roof is down.
The Mechanics
● Growling 5.3-litre V12 engine
● Extensive work done
● Repainted engine bay looks great
Akin to the body, the engine and running gear have greatly benefitted from the extensive restoration this car underwent a little less than a decade ago.
Everything from the steering to the brakes, the hydraulic soft top mechanism and the engine itself were greatly overhauled.
Under the bonnet, the engine bay was cleaned and repainted leaving an excellent resting place for the massive 5.3-litre V12 while the power plant has been extensively fettled with and parts have been replaced as appropriate. According to the current owner, the car now accelerates very well and, thanks to EBC brake pads, it should stop accordingly too.
The car has also been more recently revised, much of the transmission was given a once over early this year. In fact, it seems the XJS has always been well looked after with a service history booklet fully stamped meaning it should be ready for many more miles in the future.
Summary
Plenty of work has gone in to making this 1988 V12 XJS such a great example both visually and mechanically. Not only has it been well maintained and hasn’t covered very many miles, it has also been through a thorough restoration.
It’s time to get the roof down and make the most of the last few warm days of driving.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
