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Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible

Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible

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Jaguar XJS V12 ConvertibleJaguar XJS V12 ConvertibleJaguar XJS V12 ConvertibleJaguar XJS V12 ConvertibleJaguar XJS V12 Convertible
Lot number 101
Hammer value £5,800
Description Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible
Registration F174 MUP
Year 1989
Colour Black
Engine size 5,343 cc
Chassis No. SAJJNADW3DB158780
Engine No. 8S065243SV

Deep down, even Jaguar probably realised that the new XJ-S, launched amid much fanfare in 1975, would struggle to enter the world-stage to the same rapturous welcome that had greeted the iconic E-Type when it was unveiled in Geneva 14 years before.

Supreme machine that it was, the XJ-S just couldn’t stir emotions in the same way. Nearly 40 years on however, it still looks sharply styled and stands out from all other cars thanks to its distinctive ‘flying buttress’ rear roof-line treatment, part of the sophisticated design executed by Jaguar's legendary aerodynamicist, Malcolm Sayer.

In its day, it may not have had the jaw-dropping credentials of its E-Type predecessor, but in early manual form, could sprint to 60mph in 6.7 seconds and top 153mph so was more than its equal when it came to performance. In 1981 it received the new HE (High Efficiency) engine with Michael May-designed Fireball heads. Fuel economy increased by 20 per cent and the top speed increased to 155mph, making it the fastest automatic car in the world.

The long-awaited full convertible was finally introduced at the 1988 Geneva Motor Show, featuring a reinforced floorpan, frameless doors and sophisticated electric hood complete with heated glass rear window. Underpinned by the same all round independent coil-sprung suspension and power assisted rack-and-pinion steering as its fixed-head siblings, the soft-top came with anti-lock brakes as standard. Despite the hefty price tag of £40,000 a waiting list was quick to form.

This 1989 V12 Convertible, sporting smart black paintwork and a contrasting cream leather interior, has been in the same ownership for the last 10 years. During this time, 6,000 miles have been added to its total which now reads 107,000 miles. The vendor has kept the car stored in a Carcoon when not in use and had the power hood refurbished which is in full working order.

MOTd until September 2015, this well presented car is described by the vendor as driving well. These turbine-smooth V12s just eat the miles, making them the perfect long distance tourer for those inter-continental trips, hood down, shades on. Monte Carlo here we come…

 

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