Jaguar XJS
ENGINE 3590cc/6-cyl/DOHC POWER 221bhp@5100rpm TORQUE 249lb ft@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 142mph 0-60MPH 7.4sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 15-31mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 41,261 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This XJ-S’s engine – which has been converted to run on unleaded fuel – starts on the button and emits no smoke, rattles or strange noises. The car drives incredibly well, thanks in part to its low mileage and everything from the transmission to the steering feels solid, with no slack in the controls or slop in the gear changes. The six-cylinder engine appears to have retained its factory power and the car pulls strongly with no hesitation. The ride is fabulously smooth when pootling around town, but the damping firms up on faster roads and the car corners positively with no wallowing. Brake pedal feel is firm without being too heavy and the four-wheel disc setup is more than adequate to slow the car effectively without any drama.
BODYWORK CHECK
This particular car is free from rot. It has had a new offside front wing and wheel arch repair in the past, but this is only evident from looking through the history folder because the quality of the work is top notch. The paint is first-rate and none
EXTERIOR
Good bodywork Paintwork not faded
INTERIOR
Luxurious, comfortable and well-maintained
MECHANICALS
High build quality remains evident
of the chrome trim pieces have succumbed to the elements. The car is in similar condition underneath with a healthy coat of black stone-chip paint and no evidence of corrosion or damage. There are only a couple of minor scuffs on the original wheels and the Kenda Klever H/P tyres all have ample tread remaining.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Jaguar interiors are always congenial and this one is no exception. There is very little evidence of wear – a small patch on the driver’s seat bolster and a couple of hairline cracks in the wood veneer on the centre console; everything else is spotless and the seats are still comfortable and supportive.
The carpets and headlining are clean and dry and the door cards, steering wheel and gear knob are in top condition.
All switches and gauges work perfectly, including those quirky aeroplane-esque indicators in the centre of the dash.
UNDER THE BONNET
What we have here is an honest engine bay – there is no lurking rust and everything works as it should. There are no engine oil or coolant leaks but there does appear to be a slight weep from the power steering system, but has no adverse effect on the operation of the steering itself. It’s clearly a well-maintained car, coming as it does with an impressive service history, including receipts for a new fuel pump fitted last year.
THE CCW VIEW
This car has been with the same owner since 1989. Its service history backs up the superb overall condition and low mileage. Oozing style and – being the six-cylinder model – more fuel-efficient than its V12 counterpart, it still has enough performance to impress.
PROS Rare manual ‘box, low miles, good history CONS Minor PAS fluid leak, part-cloth seats
BUY IT FROM Villiers Classics, 30 North Street, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire DN21 2HU. 07960 870446, villiersclassics.com