Vehicle Description
This striking 1986 Jaguar XJS looks like it should cost far more
than it does. While the XJS isn't everyone's cup of tea, it's hard
to resist the silky smooth V12 powerplant, long, lean bodywork, and
supremely comfortable interior. Add in the unusual early cabriolet
body style and just 18,156 original miles and you have an
all-seasons Jag that simply works like you'd expect.
The long, sinuous lines of the XJS have aged gracefully and they're
still cars that look like they should cost thousands more than they
do. Finished in silky Sable Brown paint, this one looks like money
on wheels, with a beautiful gloss that speaks volumes about the
original finish that came from Coventry more than 30 years ago. Fit
and finish were never a problem for Jaguar, and the cars certainly
looked expensive going down the road, which was a big part of the
appeal. Jaguars were immensely tasteful, with just enough chrome to
add contrast without being gaudy. The XJS's most notable features,
the "flying buttress" C-pillars, have been eliminated with the
cabrio bodywork, but it still cuts a dashing profile that's quite
elegant. Details like the rubber bumpers are in good order without
the chalky look that would suggest a car that spent a lot of time
outside and the versatile top makes for a car that's good
year-round.
The tan leather interior is understated and crafted from
high-quality materials that have withstood the test of time. The
leather seats have just the right amount of wear to look
comfortable but not worn out, and everything from the wood to the
carpets on the floors were the best materials money could buy in
1986. The gauges are large and easy to read and remarkably, fully
functional with V12 powerplant, suggesting that someone has
maintained this one properly. The only notable demerit might be the
A/C, which isn't currently working but since it's all reliable GM
hardware in there, getting it operational shouldn't be a challenge.
The top offers solid lift-off panels above the front seats and a
folding canvas top in back, which was Jaguar's solution to body
rigidity issues and the car feels commendably tight going down the
road today. There's also an AM/FM/cassette stereo system and the
trunk is remarkably deep and well-shaped, even with a full-sized
spare tire back there.
The XJS's 5.3 liter SOHC V12 is an impressive performer, and with
fuel injection it's a low-maintenance machine that's remarkably
easy to live with. It starts quickly and easily and there's a feel
to a twelve-cylinder motorcar that nothing else can match; it feels
special from the moment you turn the key. Thanks to so few miles,
the engine bay is sparkling clean and looks just the way it would
have when it rolled off the showroom floor. The 3-speed automatic
transmission is a bulletproof GM TH400, so no worries there, and it
powers the Jag's original rear end, which also means the supple yet
athletic suspension remains intact. A dual exhaust system sounds
smooth and quiet but lets the V12 howl when you run hard, and the
superb combination of ride and handling that Jaguar engineers
achieve is nothing short of miraculous. Even those beautiful chrome
wire wheels are in excellent shape and now carry 215/70/15 Pirelli
radials.
A beautiful low-mileage car, this Jag is ready to enjoy at any
level, even as a daily driver. If you're tired of the same-old,
same-old, this awesome Jag is a sure-fire cure. Call today!