Highlights
- A Rare example of the 4-seater V12 model
- Excellent servicing and maintenance records
- Solid presentation with good leather seats
- 12 Months MOT
The Appeal
When first unveiled in 1975, the Jaguar XJS was never designed to accommodate open-top aspirations, as the proposed US legislation made it unviable. However realising that they were missing an intrinsic dimension to the XJS’s talent as a balanced and effortless cruiser, Jaguar extensively re-engineered the car in the mid-’80s to accommodate a Targa roof. With the additional bracing to maintain rigidity, the novel lift-out targa panels along with the fold-down roof added further appeal to the XJS.
Less than 1000 RHD V12 models were produced between 1985 and 1988, and even fewer were fitted with the now desirable rear back seat option. Believed to have been carried out by sanctioned specialists after the car left the dealer in August 1987, this is a rare opportunity to obtain a full four-seater with the lavish refinement of the legendary V12 5.3-litre engine. Finished in white, with a grey leather interior, it comes with an impressive folder of invoices, which covers a minor restoration, a repaint, as well as an interior and mechanical refurbishment. Sold with a healthy service history, two complete sets of keys and the added assurance of an MOT for a full year.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in August 1987
- Just 4 previous owners
- 12 Months MOT
- V5c applied for
- Treated to a cosmetic restoration in the mid-2010s
- Work carried out by Classic Car and Jaguar Specialists
- Engine electrics invoice for over £1600 carried out in 2020
- Around £8,000 worth of spending over the last 10 years includes brake and cooling work
- Historic invoices for maintenance, welding, dampers and aircon overhaul
- Owners wallet, including its service book with 21 stamps
- The last service was carried out just over 1200 miles ago
- Two complete sets of keys
The Interior
- Grey leather seats in very good shape, with no significant cracks or wear
- Rare back seat option
- Complete set of carpets and mats, all damp-free and in presentable condition
- Dashboard and centre console free of cracks, with a couple of drilled holes noted
- Dials and controls in decent shape
- Instruments legible
- Original dealer-fit cassette player
- Veneer generally intact with some marks
- The steering wheel has wear on the top
- New headlining fitted in 2021 but would benefit some additional work
- Door cards in good shape
- Boot cleanly presented with evidence of careful use
The Exterior
- Structurally positive, with surface corrosion noted on the subframe and floorpan
- The boot floor, inner wings, door and foot wells appear solid
- Light signs of corrosion developing on the wheel arches lips, but overall free of significant panel corrosion
- Mild blemishes were noted on the off-side outer sill but the body is free of dents or scuffs
- Passenger doors open and close with ease, but would benefit from an adjustment to fit flush
- Other exterior panels display a decent fit
- Evenly finished white paint with a decent lustre
- No evidence of significant road chips
- Engine bay reveals original paint colour
- The roof is in good shape but will need a little fettling to fit flush
- Targa panels in decent shape
- The back screen is free of cracks but will need a replacement
- The owner has assured us that the roof seals well and has not noted any water ingress
- Chrome trim in decent shape, with mild damage noted on the nearside chrome windscreen pillar
- Bumpers well mounted, with minor signs of age
- The glass is intact commensurate with the age of the car, with good seals
- Later-style lattice 15” alloy wheels in good condition
- Pirelli front tyres are around 5 years old with plenty of tread, both rear tyres show sidewall cracks
The Mechanics
- V12 5.3-litre engine starts up instantly and idles smoothly with no undulations
- Dashboard warning lights stay off during tick over
- Said to drive smoothly with no unwanted noises from the engine
- The ZF Automatic gearbox engages gear with no reports of slippage
- Cooling work carried out in 2021, including replacement electric fan and viscous fan coupling
- Extensive engine electrical works carried out 3 years ago
- Decent hoses and ancillaries
- The car said to brake in a straight line, with no reported noises
- Some suspension components show their age
- The exhaust has a slight blowing
Summary
Combining the rigidity of a fixed-head coupe with the pleasures of open-top motoring, the XJ-SC also offers a rare combination of a silky smooth V12 power plant with the ability to seat four people in comfort. Thanks to its mechanical durability and presentation, it is perfectly usable as is, a little effort on the roof could make this spellbinding cruiser into the ideal summer car.
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.