1990 Jaguar XJS Convertible

The XJS Convertible, which first appeared in 1988 at a price of £36000, was considerably more than merely a coupé with the roof removed. The earlier 'T'-top cabriolet paved the way as the first open Jaguar since the demise of the E-Type in 1975, but this was to be the first full convertible and a strengthened sub-frame was employed in order to alleviate scuttle shake. It looked superb and elegant with the hood erect or folded and finally met demands of the highly valued North American market. Retaining the roomy cockpit space of the coupé, the new convertible boasted a useful shelf for excess luggage and all expected Jaguar refinements as standard of course, making for a very fine open grand touring car exceeding the specification of home grown machinery and being much cheaper than the equivalent high profile Mercedes SL. Today, this model is very much establishing itself as a most worthy latter day classic, good examples being eagerly sought by connoisseurs of the marque.

We are informed by the vendor that this particular XJS V12 Convertible was first registered on the 1st of October 1990 and was supplied new by Stratsones of London to Goldschmidt and Howland a firm of estate agents based in London's capital. The mileage of just under 70,000 miles is warranted and supported by previous MOT certificates and other supporting paperwork and has been in the hands of the same owner for the last 13 years.

This four owner car finished in mid metallic blue has a deep lustre with no scrapes or dings down either flanks, likewise there are no scuffs or scrapes to either four corners of the bumpers and all chrome work looks to be in excellent order, we are informed that panel gaps are even, shut lines are narrow and overall fit is very tidy.

This XJS convertible gives just the right balance between that very English wood and leather treatment, the parchment leather is in good condition throughout and is complimented beautifully by walnut veneer that has retained its colour well.

The vendor informs us that a twist of the ignition key and the five litre V12 fires instantly, press the accelerator and the engine pulls smoothly through the rev range. Acceleration is described as brisk with a wave of torque available to thrust the car forward and the automatic gearbox is described as a pleasure to experience.

If the eighties styling of the XJS convertible ticks your box and you want a classic that combines a stylish driving experience with the ability to deliver you to your destination unflustered, this car maybe the one for you, sold with an MOT until November of this year this is a car of massive ability, just as happy to waft through town as it is to pulverise the greatest of highways.