1988 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible

This XJS convertible has been with its current owner since 2015, and he had planned to keep and enjoy it a little longer but a rash promise to his wife that this would be sold if any other cars were bought means that it is now available.

It is in beautiful condition and appears a beautifully original car, looking stunning in bright red, which really shows off the car’s delicate lines, and contrasts well with the black hood and interior.

The owner has not needed to do much more than general maintenance and the previous keepers appear to have been meticulous owners with plenty of records of upkeep and the only non-service activity being the addition of a cross brace under the front of the car which stops body flex, much improving the driving experience.

The exterior of the Jaguar is exceptional, the paint is believed to be original and has a deep gloss and finished panels that have no signs of corrosion. Looking at usual spots like the wheel arches all appears very solid. The brightwork is just that - bright and shiny with no pitting to the bumpers or badges. The lights also live up to standard. 

The black hood raises and lowers easily and the fabric is tight when the hood is up, not worn or faded. It’s easy to imagine this is a replacement but there is no sign of a receipt for this, and it would surely be here.

The lattice alloy wheels are all in good condition with no damage. Matching premium brand tyres are always a sign a car has been looked after and this is wearing Pirelli P600 tyres all round with good tread.

With just 78,000 miles on the clock the interior looks almost like a new car. The black leather is virtually unmarked, the leather rimmed steering wheel has no scratches and the carpets are excellent.

There is a little lacquer lift on the wood around the drivers air vent and a little below the centre vent but that’s about it. The wood inlays in the doors are amazing, as are the door cards which so easily curl. The stainless door kick plates also have very little in the way of marks.

It has a very period correct upgraded stereo in the dash, and there is a storage locker behind the front seats and includes a crook lock.

The car is as almost as good underneath as on top, the chassis appears solid with barely any surface corrosion. The red cat has had a Harvey Bailey under engine cross brace fitted in 2004 and in the same year had new springs, dampers, bushes and ball joints. A new power steering rack was also fitted in 2020.

The mighty V12 fired easily and the sound is utterly intoxicating. This followed onto the road Where the driving experience was just as pleasurable as the cars overall appearance.  

A superb service record alongside a strong MoT history verifies the mileage of this car, but good care and regular maintenance means there are very few major milestones in the car’s history as it appears to be very original. 

Take a look for yourselves in the gallery where you will find the fully stamped service book in partnership with a host of other documents. 

For too long the XJS lived in the shadow of the E Type, and it’s taken a while to become a classic in its own right but now a new generation of classic buyers are recognising it for the outstanding car it is, with powerful engine ranges, sublime handling, and comfortable cabins.

This car is remarkable not only for its condition, but for being so good and original. The jag appears to be free of corrosion, has excellent paint and a beautiful interior. It would be hard to find another as honest as this. We estimate this Jaguar at £11,000 - £18,000 which could set you up perfectly for a classic summer of motoring. 

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor; to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.