JAGUAR XJ-S

When Sir Lyon presented the Jaguar E-Type in 1961, the shock and seduction captured the minds of discerning enthusiasts. Through its design, its technique, its performance and its price, well below established values (Ferrari, Aston Martin, etc.), the Type E would leave its mark on the history of the sports car. In 1975, after a very long career, it had to step aside in favor of the new Jaguar XJ-S.

The first XJ-S appeared in 1975 (but as a 1976 model), equipped with a V121 engine and offering the choice between manual and automatic transmission. V12 engines were rare at the time, with the notable exception of prestige Italian manufacturers such as Lamborghini and Ferrari. The Jaguar offered the following performance: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 229 km/h. The first XJS had a Borg Warner automatic transmission, replaced in 1979 by a GM Turbo-Hydromatic 400, still with three speeds.

In 1983, a convertible powered by a new 3.6-liter in-line 6-cylinder engine was presented, the XJ-SC. This model was not a true convertible, but had a Targa type body, with only two seats. A five-speed manual gearbox from Getrag is then available, it will equip all body versions. In 1988 and 1989, a special XJR-S version was produced to celebrate Jaguar’s victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans sold only on the European market.

The model presented is equipped with the very rare Getrag 5-speed manual gearbox giving this racy coupe its sports car origins, behavior somewhat erased by the automatic gearbox which equips the majority of Jaguar XJ-S. Large costs were spent to ensure that this XJ-S could be used without reservation over long distances, which is why it has been used for many years by its current owner. The bodywork shows some traces of patina from use. The interior, the leathers of which are in excellent condition, the woodwork shows the passage of years on the central console, all the counters and gauges are functional. This XJ-S is an excellent daily driver, comfortable, reliable, powerful and very pleasant to use over long distances.

Year1987BodyCoupeColorGun MetalTransmissionManualEngine Size3.590Power225Price37.500€