Jaguar XJ-SC Cabriolet V12 Automatic

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Launched way back in 1975 to replace the ageing E-Type, the Jaguar XJS Coupe was largely designed by Jaguar's legendary aerodynamicist, Malcolm Sayer.

Low, lithe and elegant, it slipped through the air far more efficiently than the E-Type and was a paragon of stability and silence at speed. Based on a shortened XJ saloon floorpan, it weighed over 100kg less than an XJ12 and in early manual form could sprint to 60 in 6.7 seconds and hit 153mph. In 1981 the XJS received the new HE (High Efficiency) engine with Michael May-designed Fireball heads which improved fuel economy by 20 per cent and upped the top speed to 155mph, making it the fastest automatic car in the world.

The long-awaited full convertible version of the Jaguar XJS was not introduced until the 1988 Geneva Motor Show, a full 13 years after the coupe had been launched. As an interim step Jaguar had launched a Cabriolet version, the XJ-SC, in 1983. This had a fixed roof structure with rear quarter windows but with two removable targa panels and a fold-down rear hood. A very versatile design which allowed a number of fine weather options but also provided snug year-round motoring, it also looked great – better than either the Coupe or the full Convertible, in the eyes of many, just as the E-Type Roadster with hardtop is often considered to be the best looking of those cars.

Initially only available with the new 3.6-litre engine, a V12 Cabriolet was also launched in 1985, both types remaining in production until 1988 with just 5,013 made in total, of which only 710 were right-hand drive V12 models, making survivors rare and increasingly sought after today.

Dating from June 1986, this V12 Cabriolet has been in the current ownership since 1992 but was used only briefly before the owner fell ill and the car was put into storage where it has remained to this day. Regularly started and run until about five years ago, we are informed that the engine still turns and that the car rolls freely although it will clearly need substantial recommissioning after such a long lay-up. It comes with a V5C, an old tax disc and MOT from 1991-92 plus a few notes about past maintenance and is being offered here at no reserve. The personalised number plate is also included.

AMENDMENT: Please note that an HPI check shows that this car was recorded as ‘damaged on condition alert register’ in April 1990.