Lot details
Registration No: A1 YDK
Chassis No: SAJJNAFD3EJ193628
Mot Expiry: Oct 2018

By now, most XJSs are either looking rather down-in-the-mouth or have been restored to one degree or another, which makes 'A1 YDK' something of a time warp example. In storage for many years and only recently recommissioned, it has had three keepers to date, with the vendor retaining it for the last 21 years. He describes the car as 'completely unmolested and original, and as good underneath as it is on top', and considers the bodywork, paintwork, interior trim, straight-six engine and automatic transmission as all being in 'excellent condition'. The Jaguar is presented in the attractive combination of Blue bodywork teamed with Beige hide interior trim and presently displays a totally feasible (though unwarranted) total mileage to date of just 14,638. It comes complete with MOT valid until October 12.

Based on the XJ saloon, the XJ-S (later XJS) was launched in September 1975 as a replacement for the legendary E-Type, though it was a cat of very different character. The excellence of its basic design was ably demonstrated by its total production life of 21 years, and comprised a two-door monocoque bodyshell equipped with all-round independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and power-assisted rack and pinion steering. However, the original version could only cheat time for so long, and in 1991 parent company Ford thoroughly reworked the luxury grand tourer at a cost of £50 million. With its sheet metal incorporating some 40 percent new panels, the rejuvenated model range sported a revised grille, headlamps, taillights, bumpers and rear wings. Its cabin, meanwhile, gained a new walnut trim facia and improved sports seats. The new version was powered by either a punchy 4.0-litre straight-six or soporific 5.3-litre V12 engine. The former developed 223bhp and 283lb ft of torque and could ably power the newcomer to a refined and relaxing top speed of 140mph.