From the moment it debuted in 1975, there was a demand for a topless version of the Jaguar XJ-S to replace the iconic E-Type Roadster.
But it would be 1988 before a full convertible appeared – by which time the UK economy was booming and a V12 XJS was a gift from yuppie heaven.
This one was registered in 1989 and is a full-fat V12, one of the last pre-facelift 5.3s.
This one is absolutely stunning. Stored in temperature-controlled conditions as part of a private collection for the past few years, it’s a remarkable car with a super-low mileage and is presented in fabulous order. IMG_5382.JPG3.91 MB
The low mileage of this car is reflected in its interior, which is in excellent order save for a small amount of wear on the driver’s side seat bolster and to the leather piping, as well as a small split in the piping on the passenger side seat base.
The leather colour is ‘Heritage Tan’, darker than the more common Sand or Magnolia and the perfect compliment to the dark green coachwork.
It has good carpets and door trims and the original trip computer and factory radio-cassette player are in full working order, as is the air conditioning, which blows nice and cool.
The roof is lowered via an electric switch, for which you need to depress the brake pedal and ensure the handbrake is engaged. It folds flat in around 30 seconds – impressive even by modern standards.
The roof also comes with a bespoke Jaguar tonneau cover, which fits perfectly. IMG_5452.JPG3.84 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Mostly original paint
Excellent wheels and tyres
Excellent hood
Superb overall condition
Finished in solid Jaguar Racing Green, the XJS is a great looking car, especially with its roof fully lowered.
The roof itself is in very good order and has no noticeable marks.
It’s in excellent condition with no visible corrosion and where it has needed work over the years this has been carried out to a very high standard, with excellent paint and a seamless finish.
The wheels, tyres and trim are in excellent order and the chrome is all very good, while the original two-tone coachlines are in great condition, too. IMG_5417.JPG4.33 MB
THE MECHANICS
5.3-litre V12
4-spd auto
Starts and runs well
Will be supplied with new MOT
It may look like a terrifying mass of pipework and cables but the Jaguar 5.3-litre V12 is actually an extremely reliable power plant.
This one has been well maintained and is reported by the vendor as being in excellent running order. It certainly ran very well on a short test drive on private land to take our photos, holding a steady temperature and registering good oil pressure.
It will be sold with a full mechanical health check and a 12-month MOT.IMG_5481.JPG4.3 MB
SUMMARY
This is a gorgeous example of the V12 XJS, with the added appeal of being a convertible – a lovely car in wonderful condition, and with bags of charm.
It has been loved and well cared-for, while its genuine low-mileage will make it an especially attractive proposition for collectors.
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