1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible

Background
The XJ-S Convertible, which first debuted in 1988 at a price of £36,000, was far more than just a Coupé with the roof removed. The earlier 'T-top' Cabriolet paved the way as the first open Jaguar since the departure of the E-Type in 1975, but this was the first full convertible. A strengthened sub-frame was used to reduce scuttle shake. It looked superb and elegant with the hood either up or down and it finally met the demands of the highly sought after North American market. Retaining the roomy cockpit space of the coupe, the new convertible featured a useful shelf for extra luggage and all the expected Jaguar refinements as standard. The XJ-S' exceptional 5.3-litre V12 engine developed around 295bhp in later fuel-injected form. Even when coupled with an automatic transmission, the car could reach a genuine 150mph, making it a superb open-top Grand Touring car.

The Car
Registered new on 1st August 1989, it was sold to a London-based lady who kept it until 1996. Finished beautifully in Arctic Blue over a cream interior with a matching blue hood and a glass rear window, it’s one of those Convertibles that manages to look stunning with the hood both up and down. The car has just over 73,000 miles on the clock and has an MOT valid until 20th August 2025. The alloys have been fully stripped and repainted and are now wrapped in Pirelli P600 tires. The car has been maintained on an as-needed basis, with no expense spared.

This example is powered by Jaguar’s infamous V12 engine, which was the world’s first mass-produced V12 engine. This particular model, like most of Jaguar’s V12s, has a 5.3-litre engine that produces an impressive 295bhp, delivered through a 4-speed automatic gearbox.

The car underwent a comprehensive recommissioning in 2021, as it had been garaged for a few years. Various works were completed, including:

• A new battery
• General testing and re-tuning
• The automatic gearbox was removed and overhauled, with all seals, filters, and fluids renewed
• The brakes were stripped, with new calipers and vented discs fitted, and the cylinder pistons were overhauled with new pads
• New bushes were fitted to the front shock absorbers, anti-roll bar, lower wishbones and top suspension joints
• The rear axle was dropped and treated
• The tires were tested, removed and resealed as necessary
• The power hood was freed off and lubricated
• All relays were removed, tested, and all mechanisms were lubricated
• All locks and hinges were lubricated
• All auxiliaries and systems were tested

The Mighty V12 is ready to be used and enjoyed, one not to be missed, sensibly guided for anyone looking to enter the world of classic Jaguar.

Location: Flintshire

Seller: Private

Photos: Professional