Winning bid
£20,500

1989 Jaguar XJS Convertible

Highlights

  • Very low mileage and low ownership example in beautiful condition
  • Example of the highly desirable fully convertible XJS in 5.3-litre V12 form
  • Fabulous combination of red paintwork over excellent condition cream and tan interior


The Appeal

For many, the XJ-S Convertible represents the most desirable iteration of Jaguar’s highly successful and supremely competent grand tourer. With XJ-S production commencing in 1975, the buying public had to wait a full 13 years until 1988 to finally get their hands on an official fully convertible model from Jaguar.
Prior to this, the only open-top option was the XJ-SC, which although also a handsome GT, was always felt by some to be somewhat compromised by its fixed side window arrangement and targa top. 
The more elegant XJS Convertible as offered here, featured an electrically operated folding hood and a strengthened bodyshell, together improving both the appearance and handling of the car.
This particular example, in a stunning colour combination of red paintwork over a cream and tan interior, features Jaguar’s legendary 5.3-litre V12 engine. Renowned for its smoothness and potency, this powerplant is a perfect match for the XJS Convertible’s gorgeous looks.

The History and Paperwork

  • V5C present, documenting only 1 former keeper
  • First registered October 1989
  • MOT valid until 09/09/2023, with no advisories
  • Electronic MOT records demonstrate continuous MOT history from 2006, with documented mileage in 2006 of only 34,547 miles – demonstrating the car has only covered around 2000 miles in total since this time
  • Partial history with original stamped service book containing a combination of Jaguar and Jaguar specialist service stamps
  • Owner’s manual and handbooks present and in excellent condition
  • Invoice for replacement of front top shock absorber mounting bushes and washers, 2012

The Interior

  • Gorgeous combination of cream leather over tan carpets
  • Beautiful deep wood veneers in excellent condition
  • Original Jaguar mats present
  • Upgraded Bluetooth-capable audio system
Complementing the bright red exterior paintwork, the lovely warm interior of this XJ-S presents in a really lovely condition, with the rich wood veneers warranting particular mention for their truly fantastic condition.
The leather looks to be in great condition, appearing complete and without any significant damage. Note is made of some mild wear on the driver’s seat bolster, but this is very minor and could be easily corrected, should the new owner wish. As demonstrated in the photographs, this car also comes with a complete rear seat set which offers the future owner the potential to have a 2+2 configuration.
It’s really great to see an XJ-S interior in such original condition and the low mileage of this example is really reflected in both the condition and quality of the interior – this was clearly a very well loved car. 
The only nod to modernity is the upgraded Sony stereo system, however, even this looks to have been well-chosen and fits the cabin well, sitting nicely underneath the trip computer. 

The Exterior

  • Gorgeous combination of a black roof over striking red paintwork
  • Bodywork appears to be straight and in great condition all round
  • Excellent tread on correct original specification Pirelli P600 tyres
The XJ-S Convertible looks fabulous on the road whether the roof is up or down, and this car is no exception. The black powered hood looks to be in excellent condition, sitting nicely on the car and with an excellent rich colour - the supplying dealer’s sticker in the rear glass is also a nice original touch.
The bodywork and paint of this particular example also look to be in good condition with only evidence of minor blemishes visible, such as a small scuff over the front nearside wheel arch and some small paint chips to the front and rear valances. 
Otherwise, the usual trouble areas for the XJ-S, such as around the headlamps, wheel arches, sills and lower wings all look to be very presentable. Additionally, as demonstrated in the photographs, the boot floor also appears to present in a very good condition.
Finally, the external brightwork of this XJ-S also looks to be complete and in a very presentable condition, set off nicely against the bright red exterior.

The Mechanics

  • V12 appears very clean and original under the bonnet – consistent with the low documented mileage 
  • Appears to be very straight underneath without any evidence of significant damage or corrosion
  • Looks to have factory underseal in excellent condition
The underside of this XJ-S appears to match rest of the car in terms of its quality and condition, consistent with this car’s very low mileage and ownership history. The factory underseal appears to be largely complete and there does not appear to be any evidence of significant corrosion in the typical trouble areas. 
Similarly, under the bonnet the engine also appears to be in a clean and original condition and the V12 certainly makes for an impressive sight!

Summary

A great example of perhaps one of the most desirable iterations of the iconic XJ-S, representing a fantastic opportunity to experience sophisticated V12-powered open-top touring at its best!
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.
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.
Icon

Selling your Jaguar?


Advertise to 4 million monthly visitors on Car & Classic

Sell by Auction

Auction Details

  • Year1989
  • MakeJaguar
  • ModelXJS convertible 5.3
  • ColourRed
  • Odometer36,729 Miles
  • Engine size5343cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • CountyLondon
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

17 Bids

Adrian••••
Bid
£20,500
21/07/23
sonic88••••
Bid
£20,250
21/07/23
jason-c••••
Bid
£20,000
21/07/23
sonic88••••
Bid
£19,750
21/07/23
jason-c••••
Bid
£19,500
21/07/23
sonic88••••
Bid
£19,250
21/07/23
jason-c••••
Bid
£19,000
21/07/23
laborio••••
Bid
£18,250
21/07/23
jason-c••••
Bid
£18,000
21/07/23
laborio••••
Bid
£15,250
21/07/23

Buying with Car & Classic

animation

How bidding works

All you need to know about the bidding process on Car & Classic

animation

Five steps to buying safely

We make it safe and simple to secure your dream classic

animation

Shipping & transport

Useful information on collecting your new vehicle

animation

Secure payments

How we protect you and your money, to make Car & Classic the safest place to transact

More FAQs

Gallery