• Comprehensive service history • Recently recommissioned for the road.
The Background
Successor to the iconic British sports car - the E-Type - the XJS was a huge style departure. In the place of a sporty roadster, this new, far larger car emerged - more of a grand tourer, capable of covering vast distances in matching large volumes of comfort.
It was a bold car and a bold move for Jaguar, gladly though it was a move that paid off, with the model being a huge success for the brand, remaining in production for 21 years.
Now appreciating well, the XJS is a popular classic and examples like this very well cared for V12 convertible are in hot demand. Compared to the coupe, the convertible provides an even more smooth, sleek silhouette, sharing of course the elongated, vast bonnet.
Offered for auction here is a delightful example of the iconic Jaguar. A sought-after convertible model fitted with an auto gearbox and finished in a lovely, metallic blue with a complimentary light grey leather interior. NRL09957-10.jpg2.05 MB
The History
The seller added this XJS to his collection earlier in the year to enjoy through the warmer months but, with his wife reluctant to drive it – due solely to the interaction from admirers that it attracts – it’s not getting enough use to warrant keeping it. Clearly from the exceptionally low mileage, this has been an untroubled car and has spent several years stored off the road.
As such, the current owner has recently had the car recommissioned by a local, trusted mechanic who replaced engine and gearbox oils and filters and gave the car a thorough examination. Proudly accompanied by a valuation certificate from the Jaguar Driver’s Club (from 1988, no less), this is a car which has been owned by true devotees of the marque in its lifetime and cared for as you would expect.
A confident folder of history accompanies the car, bound in the beautiful leather Jaguar book which holds the original owner’s handbook and service record. The record has been kept up to date with regular, timely servicing – the most recent completed at just 34,534 miles which included fluids, filters, spark plugs and leads. MOT history is all presented through a car check conducted by the current owner, showing the most recent service passed in June of this year.
There is perhaps less paperwork than one might expect for a car of this age, but this is to be expected considering the incredibly low distance the car’s covered and thus not required a lot of garage time. This said, everything you’d hope to see in the folder is present, including – of course – the V5.
Open the large, hefty door and you’re greeted by a set of incredibly comfortable and supportive leather seats that provide a lovely, low seating position. The grey leather shows only light signs of wear as you might expect from a car of this age – it has of course been treated with quality leather balms to maintain its condition.
Elsewhere the wood veneer is in good condition with the central console gear stick surround having been recently refinished and the chunky steering wheel in brilliant condition. All electrics, including the electric folding roof, appear to function correctly and as smoothly as intended. Reaching the cavernous boot, you’ll find an original Jaguar tool kit in its case, alongside a spare wheel with matching Pirelli tyre.
In general, the Arctic blue paintwork presents fantastically owing to an easy life that the car’s been treated to. Contrasting the blue cuts a red pinstripe running down the length of either side. The sporty, original Jaguar wheels are immaculate, with all have been very recently fitted with a fresh set of Pirelli P600 tyres – specifically chosen by the owner to match the recommended tyres for this car.
An area of scrutiny for buyers of Jaguar XJS convertibles is often the hood – thanks to a replacement hood in recent years, there are no such concerns with this example in dark blue, the fabric looking clean and free from any tears, holes or stains.
Chrome is found in abundance, adding more than a touch of class and all found in fantastic condition, remarkable considering its age. Underneath the car we found no signs of rust, appearing extremely clean – consummate with the history where this car has spent plenty of time SORN under cover.
Described by the current owner as being mechanically “spot on”, we’re happy to confirm that this certainly seems to be the case, with the car starting first time and driving superbly with no untoward noises. Looking under the bonnet is quite something, and it’s clear that the mechanics of this XJS have been incredibly well cared for in its lifetime with a folder of invoice history to back it up.
Thanks to the recent fluids and filters refresh, the car is ready a new owner to get straight behind the wheel of with no garage time required.
Providing its lucky driver with close to 300bhp, this is a joyous classic Jaguar – one of the firms’ most iconic outputs – and loved by many for its smooth, husky V12 purr. Thanks to its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine, this XJS is primed for covering long distances in great style.
Buyers can choose this low-mileage example in confidence, knowing that it’s been well cared for and wants for nothing aside from some extra mileage to be put onto the clock.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here
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More about buying with us
1988 Jaguar XJ-S V12 Convertible
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