For Sale: 1979 Jaguar XJ12 in Carey, Illinois

This an absolutely gorgeous V-12L Jaguar sedan out-fitted in Old English white with light tan leather interior and coordinating floor rugs. The car is finished with a black fine-line on the body waist-line. The overall combination presents very elegantly indeed. The 5.3 litre V12 configuration represented only some 15% of total production numbers for the XJ series II sedan from 1973 to 1979. The engine is a 326 cubic inch engine delivering 244 horse power. When the V12 option was first released in the Series I sedan in 1972 it held the title as the"fastest full four-seater available in the world" at that time. The "L" stands for Long wheel-base which is 4" longer than the shorter sedans offered previously. This provides considerably extra leg-room to the rear passenger compartment. This particular XJ12L was California delivered new in late 1979 and has been treated caringly and respectfully ever since. It was later sold in July 2000 to a small-time gentleman collector in Wisconsin who drove it sparingly - only to shows and special events. Everything was maintained on the car as you would expect by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic Jaguar owner. The body on this car is very straight and the paint appears to be mostly original. With white, and when it's a high-end repaint, it can be difficult to ascertain if a car has been repainted so we can't be completely sure. But then, if we are not sure, then it tells you how good it is. There are only the most insignificant little marks here and there from minor use and presents absolutely stunningly. The paint is consistent and lustrous without any cracks, crazing, dings, dents or fading. There is no rust and the underside is very clean and dry. The interior of the car is in stunning condition with excellent Connolly hide leather upholstery finished in the light tan. The driver seat could possibly do with the cushion pleats being "re-stuffed" but is otherwise excellent. All the wood on the dash is in excellent condition, without any lifting or fractures in the lacquer and the burl walnut wood presents rich in grain - compared to the average example I would rate it a 9 out of 10. The deep grain and glossy finish of the rich grained wood in this example contrasts beautifully with the tan hides - making the interior of this car very rich and inviting. The headliner was recently redone so there is no sagging or marks. It presents in original appearance and the carpet is excellent. All interior chrome finishes are almost perfect. Overall it is very original and presents nicely. All interior features and functions are fully operational including electrics - windows, gauges, lights etc. The A/C blows icy cold. Everything is also clean and crisp - knobs, switches, instruments. The exterior chrome, stainless steel and brightwork finishes are all good without any pitting. Mechanically, the car is in superior condition and the original presentation under the bonnet clearly shows that. The car has clearly been well maintained thru quality and caring ownership. Exhaust is good with the correct factory stainless exhaust tips fitted. The car is fitted with a set of period correct looking Michelin X, thin whitewall tyresin the correct 205/70-15 size. These period correct Michelins, of course, have not been produced for many years and although with plenty of tread, it would not be advisable to go long distance touring with them. For potting around and going to shows, they are absolutely fine. This is a Jaguar that appears to have had all its usual nuances and typical issues of its age attended to and so is ready to go. The 41,000 miles is not verifiable but the car certainly presents as a low mileage example.