The Classic British Grand Tourer – the Jaguar XJ-S V12
The Classic British Grand Tourer – the Jaguar XJ-S V12
When Jaguar introduced the XJ-S in 1975, the British marque opened a new chapter in the history of its grand touring cars. The XJ-S was not conceived as a traditional sports car, but rather as an uncompromising high-speed GT designed to cover long distances at effortless speed while offering exceptional comfort. Its distinctive styling, long bonnet and characteristic rear roof sections gave it an unmistakable presence from the very beginning.
At the heart of the concept was the legendary 5.3-litre V12, which gave the XJ-S the combination of refinement, power and sophistication for which Jaguar was renowned. With the introduction of the HE – High Efficiency – version in the early 1980s, the V12 underwent further technical development. The aim was to achieve more efficient combustion while maintaining its effortless power delivery. The XJ-S thereby established itself as one of the most distinctive British grand tourers of its generation.
The Jaguar offered here dates from 1985 and is equipped with precisely this 5.3-litre HE V12. With a displacement of 5,344 cc and an output of 295 hp, the engine delivers the effortless power for which the XJ-S remains highly regarded to this day. Combined with the automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, it creates an exceptionally relaxed character. The Jaguar is less about attacking corners at speed and more about refined, effortless long-distance cruising. Of particular interest is the car's long ownership history. The current owner purchased the Jaguar second-hand as early as 1988 and has owned and driven it ever since. The XJ-S has therefore remained in the same ownership for around 38 years – an exceptionally long period that speaks to a personal and longstanding connection with the car.
Today, the Jaguar is garaged by Emil Frey Classics AG. The vehicle presents in used but overall good condition, appropriate for its age. As part of the current vehicle inspection, an uneven engine idle was noted. A professional technical assessment is therefore recommended. According to the available information, the Jaguar has been driven very little in recent years and has not been serviced, making a current service advisable. The next Swiss MFK inspection is also due. The black exterior paintwork, combined with the beige leather interior, creates a classic and particularly elegant colour combination. It underlines the luxurious character of the XJ-S and perfectly reflects the sophisticated appearance for which this British grand tourer is renowned.
The odometer currently reads 182,420 kilometres. For a grand tourer approaching four decades of age, this mileage should be considered in the context of its original purpose: Jaguar designed the XJ-S as a comfortable high-speed touring car for long-distance travel. Its strengths therefore lie in effortless cruising, exceptional touring comfort and the refined operation of its 5.3-litre V12. Even today, the car conveys that distinctive combination of British elegance and relaxed long-distance character that has defined the XJ-S since its introduction.
The car is also accompanied by the original BBS wheels, which are supplied separately in the boot. This gives the future owner the option of refitting the Jaguar with these wheels according to personal preference or retaining them as original equipment.
Have this vehicle inspected by experts!
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