"Jaguar released the XJS coupe in 1976 not as a direct replacement
for the E-Type, which retired in 1974, but rather as an evolution
of the breed. While the third series XKE wasn't exactly the same
sporting car that appeared in 1961, it retained much of the
original's character. Whereas the E-Type was curvaceous and sinewy,
the XJS used aggressive lines, with its most distinguishable
feature being its flying buttresses trailing from the roof to the
squared off tail. The model was the first Jaguar not styled by
William Lyons and a convertible wasn't available until the model's
very end." thx Hagerty.com
For consignment, a 1987 Jaguar XJS V12 coupe with a title verified
80,331 actual miles. We're not going to call this car rare, but
this is just the third XJS coupe to grace the halls of Classic Auto
Mall after dozens of Jags have passed through. That said, with just
5,380 XJS's produced in 1987, it's an uncommon car to begin
with!
Exterior
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, of course. But it's hard to
argue that Jaguar didn't hit a home run with the design of the XJS,
and for many, the coupe epitomizes style, grace, and performance.
It's sleek like a prowling cat with sweeping rear quarters crowned
by defined flying buttresses, something the convertibles lack. Our
Tungsten Metallic example shows off the black sail panels in
dramatic fashion while the black, Americanized bumpers also provide
visual contrast at the ends. The tail lights are not just
functional units, but part of the body's design, perfectly balanced
and bold. Designers also included just the right amount of chrome
across the front fascia, window reveals, and side mirrors. Jaguar's
distinctive 15-inch wheels carry 215/70R15 tires with an early 2021
date code. Imperfections include general inclusions in the paint,
chips, scuffs, a dimple in the rear bumper, scratches, and a
ding.
Interior
If you were expecting tan or black, Jaguar throws you a surprise
with an Isis Blue interior, constructed with the finest materials
including leather and burlwood trim on the door panels that both
present nicely, each with bold courtesy light down low. The bucket
seats with their tuck and roll inserts also wear blue leather and
combine sportiness with luxury. Our driver's seat shows some wear
but the passenger and 2+2 seats look good. The black steering wheel
fronts Jag's unique instrument cluster with no shortage of
indicator lights and it's all business. It's more luxurious to the
right where burlwood is prominent and frames the AM/FM/Cassette
radio and information center. A narrow T-handle shifter resides in
black plastic faceplate over a blue center console over gray
carpet, all in nice shape. Our gray headliner shows some dimples
and pillowing but is fully intact and the trunk is fully finished
and clean, housing a spare and the battery.
Drivetrain
Always filled to the brim is the engine bay of an XJS V12. Here's
the 5.3 liter unit, putting out 262 horsepower and receiving fuel
through a Lucas Bosch Digital EFI system. The powerplant is backed
by a TH400 3-speed automatic transmission that routed power through
2.88 gear in back with limited slip. The bay presents in driver
quality condition.
Undercarriage
Some surface rust, some residual oil and road soot, but overall
clean and solid underneath. Dual exhaust travels through stock
style mufflers on their way to a twin exit and power disc brakes
are found on all four wheels. The fully independent suspension
includes coil springs up front and coil overs in back with four
Bilstein shock absorbers.
Drive-Ability
Even sitting still in a Jaguar XJS cabin is exciting. The sitting
position, size and stance of the car is just right. We roll the V12
across the test loop where it provides good, smooth power, the car
tracking straight and handling turns like a train on proverbial
rails. We note the A/C does not work, the high beams don't stay on,
and the radio is going to need a code. Beyond that, all other
functions operate as intended. In a May 2026 assessment of the car,
it is noted water was found in the left front footwell and
attributed to a likely windshield seal. While Classic Auto Mall
represents that these functions were working at the time of our
test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at
the time of your purchase.
The uncommon coupe you've been looking for has arrived! This is one
you can drive, in just about any weather conditions, and enjoy.
There's no doubt this one will join the long list of convertibles
that have found a new owner through Classic Auto Mall!
SAJNV5846HC136852
SAJ-Jaguar, United Kingdom
N-XJ12
V-Active Belts
5-2 Door Coupe
8-5.3L V12
4-Automatic (LHS)
6-Check Digit
H-1987
C-Browns Lane England Assy Plant
136852-Sequential Unit Number
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price. All prices are before
state, city and county tax, tag, title and license fees. Out of
state buyers are responsible for all state, county, city taxes and
fees, as well as title/registration fees in the state that the
vehicle will be registered. Classic Auto Mall is not responsible
for errors and omissions. Please verify listings with dealer.
Vehicles may require VIN verification and/or safety and emissions
inspections to transfer ownership and register the vehicle in the
declared state of residence. Please check with your local DMV
office to ensure compliance with your states titling and
registration process.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
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