Jaguar XJ12
ENGINE 5993cc/V12/OHC POWER 310bhp@5350rpm TORQUE 336lb ft@3750rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 155mph 0-60MPH 6.9sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 12-19mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed auto MoT May 2017 ODOMETER 75,134 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? Power delivery from the 6.0-litre V12 is smooth and immediate, with no coughs or splutters upon start up. The brakes deliver ample stopping power, bringing the car to a halt from speed without pulling to either side. Changes from the automatic gearbox are smooth and quiet and there is no play in the direct steering. The suspension offers a supple ride without excessive rattles or vibration. Acceleration is swift through the drivetrain, with no adverse noises from differentials, axles or wheel bearings. Average fuel consumption, according to the trip computer, matches Jaguar’s quoted 17mpg. BODYWORK CHECK The wheel arches, sills, door edges and underside appear to be solid and rust-free, but there are some scratches and flaking to the Moroccan Red paint – behind the nearside rear window is a particular sore spot. There are light marks on the rear wings and bonnet and the door handles are stiff, suggesting that the vehicle may not have been used in some time. There are some light rust spots on the chrome front bumper and moss on the window rubbers, though the rubbers themselves are in good condition. The twin exhausts are undamaged and the 16in alloy wheels don’t appear to have battled too many kerbs. HOW’S THE INTERIOR? The cabin is in superb condition, with no tears in the cream leather or peeling laminate on the wooden dashboard. The immaculate headlining is new – it was replaced in September 2016 – and the equipment, including the original six-CD multi-changer/stereo, electric memory seats, electricallyadjusted mirrors and air conditioning, seems to work as it should. The gauges give accurate and healthy readings. Carpets are immaculate and the boot is clean and dry throughout. The toolkit is complete and lives alongside two spare wheels. The door cards and leather dashboard trim are intact and unfaded. UNDER THE BONNET Inner wheel arch corrosion has been rectified in the last 12 months, the brakes have been completely overhauled and the often troublesome self-levelling suspension has been replaced by standard dampers. There’s some rust to the underside of the bonnet and some split pipe coverings, but all engine fluids are healthy and electrics perform impeccably. The car comes with a full set of service records and handbooks. THE CCW VIEW It’s refreshing to find a Jaguar XJ12 in such strong overall condition. The engine and drivetrain are near-flawless, the service history suggesting that previous owners have spared no expense. All this – and V12 power – for less than £7k. Gillian Carmoodie