1989 Jaguar XJS 5.3 V12 HE - Ex-Chris Evans

In 1975 Jaguar introduced the XJS model and it was instantly acknowledged by the world's press as an exceedingly competent Grand Tourer. The super reliable 5.3 litre V12 was carried over from the E-Type and when mated to the XJ floor-pan it became one of the most refined GTs that could match any of its rivals. The overall refinement was outstanding, cabin noise levels were uncannily low and the ride was truly 'boulevard', but sporty when pressed. With Cabriolets and full Convertibles in the model-line, the production numbers eclipsed 115,000 in its twenty-one year build life. For a car that had to be the follow up act to the E-Type it set new levels of engineering, provided effortless performance and was produced for five years longer.

Its image was enhanced by starring in The Saint and the New Avengers, but it was Tom Walkinshaw Racing that endeared the XJS to the motorsport public. When European Touring Cars was at its zenith in the eighties, Walkinshaw was making history teamed with the likes of Win Percy, Hans Heyer and Jeff Allam winning, amongst others, the 1984 ETC Championship and the Spa 24hrs.

It's hard to believe that a front-engined V12 GT can be bought for these values. This very fine example is a low-owner car (believed four in total) from new so is a real treat. Offered in traditional British Glacier White with full magnolia leather interior and contrasting burgundy piping, the vendor Vassos Alexander, describes the car as "Immaculate', saying it is in the same great condition as when he bought it from Chris Evans. He further offers "It's properly lovely, starts every time (even in Winter), and is the sort of car that makes you happy sit inside and just be alive!"