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Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual

Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual

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Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual
Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual
Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet ManualJaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual
Lot number 83
Hammer value £6,400
Description Jaguar XJS-C V12 Cabriolet Manual
Registration D94 JAE
Year 1986
Colour Cayman Blue Metallic
Engine size 5,343 cc
Chassis No. SAJJNACW3CC126680
Engine No. 8S038161HB

Jaguar’s XJS made its debut 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 new 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 popular demand soon saw a return of the fabulous 295bhp V12 to really ensure some wind in the hair motoring.

This particular V12 Cabriolet dates from August 1986 and has covered only 47,300 miles from new in the hands of five owners, with just two owners in the last 24 years. Presented in rare Cayman Blue Metallic with a cream leather interior, it was professionally converted to 5-speed manual some time ago to maximise the performance from the V12. It is believed by the vendor to be the only manual V12 Cabriolet in the UK as this was never an officially available option.

Said to be in “exceptional, original and unspoilt condition”, it comes with a large history file including a well-stamped service book, many supporting invoices and virtually all old MOTs to warrant the mileage. The current MOT runs until October 2015.

Values of the XJS Cabriolet have traditionally lagged behind those of the full convertible, yet in many eyes the Cabriolet is the best-looking XJS of all and the versatility of the removable roof panels and rear soft top means it is as snug as a coupe in winter but can be used either half- or fully open in the summer. It is also considerably rarer than the convertible, especially in V12 form, and is widely tipped as long overdue for a value adjustment.

This low-mileage cracker looks like a canny buy at the sensible guide price suggested and, with its manual gearbox, is sure to please even the most sporting driver. We like it a lot.

AMENDMENT: This car also has a stainless steel exhaust system; the underbody, chassis and floorpan have been professionaly waxoiled; the removable roof panels have been retrimmed inside and out with OE grade materials and the weather seals have been renewed. 

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