Jaguar XJS Convertible

ENGINE 3980cc/6-cyl/DOHC POWER 223bhp@4750rpm TORQUE 278lb ft@3650rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 140mph 0-60MPH 8.4sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 15-26mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed automatic MoT March 2020 ODOMETER 86,709 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Turning the car over, the engine fires straight up and then just purrs. There are no rattly noises and it doesn’t smoke, hesitate or fluctuate at idle. The ride is fluid under normal driving conditions and it feels like a proper sports car when you pick up the pace. It attacks the corners with very little body roll and the damping still feels excellent. The car stays planted to the road and overall handling is impressive. Steering is exceptionally light and the car tracks in a straight line. There’s plenty of power on tap from the six-cylinder engine and power delivery is effortless and consistent in every gear. The brake pedal feels a little soft but the brakes themselves stop the car effectively without pulling to either side. The automatic gearbox, although a little lethargic, is smooth and quiet.

BODYWORK CHECK

The bodywork presents extremely well and there are no real blemishes to speak of. The paint is still bright and the chrome in good condition. An inspection of the underside reveals no rust, repairs or damage, the chassis appears solid and straight and the rear arches, boot floor and suspension mounts are all clean. All of the wheels, including the spare, are unmarked and the Vredestein Ultrac tyres have good tread and seem to be wearing evenly. There are no rips or tears in the roof – which still fits snugly – and the rear screen is in good condition.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The cream leather interior is lovely. The seats have held up very well and are not cracked or damaged, but if we were being picky we would treat them to a freshen-up. The carpets would benefit from a clean but they are in good condition overall and the door cards have not been scuffed or damaged and are not overly worn. The wood-finished dash and centre console have not cracked or peeled and the steering wheel is in first-rate condition. The drainage channels seem to be doing their job – the interior is dry and doesn’t smell damp.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine and engine bay are both clean and tidy. The suspension and steering components all look good and tyre wear is even. All four discs are wearing well and do not have any lips or scores on them and the brake pads have plenty of meat left. The service book shows 19 service stamps up to 82,000 miles, with ten at Jaguar main dealer service centres and nine at specialist garages.

THE CCW VIEW

This big cat is in superb overall condition, has covered a mere 86,000 miles and brings with it the peace of mind that comes with a comprehensive service history. The six-cylinder engine may not be as exotic as the V12, but it is certainly more frugal and still a cracking motor.

EXTERIOR Good paint and bodywork, roof does not leak INTERIOR Tidy, refined and wearing exceptionally well MECHANICALS Six-cylinder engine is a peach