Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet

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Jaguar’s XJS debuted in 1975 and, after the more overtly sporting E-Type, many saw it as an anti-climax, especially as its 150mph performance came with a prodigious thirst – just as the oil crisis began. 

However, the arrival of the HE (High Efficiency) V12 in 1981 and the introduction of a smaller six-cylinder version helped Browns Lane’s svelte GT weather the storm. Fresh detailing and better build quality also helped restore the XJS’s lustre.

With fresh enthusiasm for the model, Jaguar turned to creating an open-topped version. In engineering terms, Jaguar's first version of an open-top XJS was somewhat conservative. The car had not been designed with an open version in mind, so a Targa-style roof was adopted. This used a substantial roll hoop to maintain rigidity in the absence of a fixed roof and two removable roof panels were stored in the boot. The coupe’s rear seats were removed and replaced with a pair of luggage lockers topped by a parcel shelf. At first, the cabriolet was only offered in the new straight-six version, but demand ensured a return of the 295bhp V12 to really ensure some wind in the hair motoring.

This 1986 example of Jaguar’s flagship cabriolet has had just two owners in the last 22 years. The twin-headlamp beauty has covered 85,108 miles and has bills and service invoices from day one – some £20,000 worth. All the MOTs from 1999 are also included in the history file.

Usefully, this car has rear seats rather than the two small luggage lockers and retains the bags for the targa panels in the boot. You’ll find the original tool kit there too.
The car is reportedly in very good overall condition and drives well, although the vendor advises that the air conditioning is not presently working.

Last serviced 800 miles ago in April 2012, the XJS had new rear brake callipers in October 2013. It is MOT’d until April 2015 (there are two new rear tyres on order to replace cracked ones as per last MOT), and the car is taxed until the end of October 2014.

Values of the targa/cabriolet XJS lag slightly behind those of the full convertible, yet in many ways it presents the more versatile option – full or half roof down etc. With one of motoring’s most legendary engines under the long bonnet and more adaptable open-air options, this might turn out to be a bargain for the touring enthusiast.