∙One owner from new
∙Incredibly low mileage
∙Simply outstanding condition
∙First year of XJ-S Convertible production
∙5.3L V12 engine

Manufactured by Jaguar from 1975 to 1996 in a number of forms, for many years the XJ-S (later simply XJS) was Jaguar’s premier GT car, particularly in top-flight V12 spec. 

Intended to move away from the sports car market and designed to go head-to-head with the likes of the Jenson Interceptor and Aston Martin DBS, Motor Magazine described the XJ-S upon launch as “Superbly engineered, sensationally quick, and magnificent to drive.” 

Primarily styled by Malcolm Sayer with input from Sir William Lyons, the XJ-S is perhaps best-known for the rear ‘flying buttresses’ displayed on the Coupé, but many are inclined to agree that the out-and-out Convertible variant (such as the one we have here) is the best-looking car of the range.

The convertible XJ-S went on sale in 1988, replacing the targa-topped XJ-SX variant which had suffered dismal sales figures. Thankfully, this 2-seat variant proved to be an excellent hit for Jaguar, and sold very well indeed.

This particular XJ-S convertible is a particularly early example, being first registered in 1988 - the first year of XJ-S Convertible production. 

Being a ‘second generation XJ-S, it is also fitted with the refined ‘HE’ V12 engine, with input from Swiss engineer Michael May in the form of the Fire Ball combustion chamber, which resulted in both increased fuel economy and additional power.

It would appear that despite its age, however, this car is in full-on ‘time-warp’ condition, showing only a smidge over 8,500 miles on the odometer, and presenting in excellent condition, as you’d expect for such a low-mileage car. 

The current owner has been custodian of the car from new, and has lovingly cherished it for its entire existence. Used regularly for the first few years of its life, the car has always been kept in a heated garage, which goes a long way to explaining the incredible condition that it presents in. 

Prospective purchasers will be happy to know there is a wealth of paperwork that accompanies the car, including the original Jaguar owners manual and document file, the original purchase invoice for the car, numerous old MOT certificates, and a selection of old RAC members books and memorabilia. 

The seller advises that the Jaguar was serviced regularly through the main dealer until 1991 and then regularly visited a local Jaguar specialist after that, but sadly there is no paperwork to back this up. They seller also advises that the car has been MOT’d every year with only a couple of gaps. The last one took place on 22/02/2021.

In addition to the paperwork, there are also two sets of keys with the car.

Cream leather is often a recipe for disaster, or at the very least minor frustration. Well, neither of those apply here, as this is one of the - if not perhaps the - cleanest XJ-S interior we’ve ever seen. 

From the steering wheel that looks like it’s barely ever been held, to the seats which appear to have barely ever been breathed on - let alone sat in - the condition of the cabin in this gorgeous GT car really is a sight to behold.

The boot is also pristine, and comes complete with matching spare wheel & cover, correct battery cover, toolbox and Jaguar bag. It actually looks as if the boot has never been used.

With only 8,530 miles showing on the clock, it becomes clear just how this example has been kept in such excellent condition. Looking at the photos that we’ve been supplied with, we’re struggling to find any real issues here. Even the mirror-finish sill plates look spot on, while the rest of the interior looks as if it’s just rolled off the factory floor… magnificent!

As if the so-clean-you-could-eat-off-it interior wasn’t enough, the exterior of this XJ-S also looks simply stunning. The blue paintwork looks rich enough to swim in, while if you forget your mirror, don’t worry - simply use the paintwork, as it’s certainly shiny enough.

Importantly, the soft top is in just as fantastic condition as the rest of the car, meaning the new owner can rest easy knowing their car is waterproof, and the vendor has certainly not said anything to the contrary. 

The wheels, despite being intricate, all look to be immaculate, with no signs of corrosion, kerbing, or any other damage whatsoever. Clearly the owner is one who looks after their cars, even down to cleaning out such complicated wheel designs. 

Usual problem areas such as around the lower doors and wheel arches all seem to be free from corrosion, which is a massive plus point on cars such as this. The seller has provided a number of photos of the arches in particular, so that any prospective purchasers may satisfy themselves of the excellent condition.

This is where this listing gets really interesting. Under the hood is the V12 ‘HE’ (High Efficiency) engine putting out 295hp to the rear wheels. The ‘HE’ engines not only boosted the power output over the earlier, pre 1981 cars, but also increased the fuel economy - a win-win situation as far as we’re concerned. 

Under the bonnet is spotless as you’re probably expecting by now in this listing, with absolutely no visible causes for concern. The original factory stickers remain intact across the engine bay, and there’s barely any evidence of grime. 

Most interesting of all, however, is the underside. The vendor was kind enough to get some photos of the underside of the XJ-S while it was on a ramp, and the results speak for themselves; It barely looks like the car has ever been out on the road! 

Of course, the exhaust tubing is starting to show its age a little but there are no reported holes or blows. Otherwise, it looks pretty peachy underneath, with the floor plans being a deep black colour, the sump still being practically pristine, and no signs of any dreaded rust, corrosion or any real dirt build-up on the chassis that we can see. 

Even those who aren’t particularly fans of the XJ-S should be able to see the appeal here - that’s just how good this example is. 

From the incredible condition, to the low miles and fantastic V12 engine, this must be one of the best examples of the XJ-S convertible to come to market in recent years, and makes an ideal addition to any summer garage lineup.

 Top down, shades on, and a V12 upfront - what more could you want?

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