1989 Jaguar XJ12 Sovereign V12 Auto

Sir Williams Lyons was still very much involved in Jaguar when the first XJ saloon rolled off the production line in 1968 and then swiftly going on to win the accolade of 'Car of Year'. It would always be regarded as the flagship model, offering true large saloon interior space, ample rear legroom and a ride that was often described by the press as the best in the world. It became the favoured mode of transport for the Monarchy, the UK Prime Ministers and the like.

When the V12 version was announced in July 1972 it was not only the world's only mass produced 12 cylinder four door saloon, but the fastest four-seater on the planet giving rise to the tagline, "Grace, Space and Pace'. With vivid performance and a top speed over 140mph its ride quality was the envy of all the other luxury car manufacturers. In 1984 the Sovereign name, which was the preserve of Daimler models, was transferred to the top of the range Jaguar. The final evolution of the Series III Jaguar Sovereign is often regarded as the pinnacle of excellence prior to final production in 1992. The engine had the high efficiency (HE) or 'fireball' high compression heads that breathed new life in to the turbine smooth V12.

This is a seriously well-presented relatively entry-level classic car with a very attractive guide price entitling the new owner to "the-fastest-saloon-in-the-world' status, albeit it's no longer 1989 and times have changed...

It remains however a very good quality motorcar benefitting from a recent new headlining, good leather seats and carpeting, plus quality wooden trim. It is reported to run exceptionally well with no visible leaks or mechanical gremlins, however, the air conditioning system does need re-gassing.

Supplied with UK V5C, MoT test certificate and valid road tax, it is accompanied by some service history, most notably from Williamsons of Poole. One of the previous owners was a member of the Dorset Jaguar Owner's Club so you can comfortably deduce that it has been previously cared for, as supported by various literature and Jaguar handbooks.