1991 Jaguar XJ-Series XJS

1991 Jaguar XJS V12 Classic Collection Convertible 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 1991 Jaguar XJS V12 convertible with a title verified 90,168 actual miles. This one has a straight body and has been garaged all its life according to our consignor. Enzo Ferrari may have said the XKE is the most beautiful car in the world, but we know a few people who think some of Jaguar's best work is encapsulated in the XJS. Exterior Ten colors were available for the 1991 XJS and this one shines in Glacier White mated to a black canvas roof which presents a rich contrast. A low shoulder line, here accentuated with a pinstripe, results in low wrap around bumpers, contouring to the gentle curve in front and arrow straight in back with very nice chrome. The flat deck lid rounds off at the edges and the distinctive tail lights absorb that shape and fit flush symmetrically positioned over dual exhaust tips. In front, the long, sleek hood descends into a valley flanked by lifting body panels that take in the quad headlights next to a streamlined grille and lower fog lights, all topped of course, but the leaping jaguar hood ornament. 15-inch chrome lace style wheels seem just right for this personal luxury vehicle which has excellent paint and brightwork, along with a top that's in great shape. Imperfections are limited to some rock chips on the rocker panel, some spots of bubbling, and a spider crack on the hood. Interior You can look at the door panels and just know they are made with quality materials. They're tight, clean, and efficiently designed here in Doeskin beige with a burl wood accent and a carpeted corner. Beige leather bucket seats are providing ribbed inserts and tall backs and the both seats show wear with creasing and tears. There are no back seats, only a flat carpeted cargo area with side walls that are dressed like the door panels. The driver is handed a fairly average black steering wheel which fronts an instrument cluster in a black cove with the tach and speedometer flanking vertical gauges under a row of idiot and indicator lights. The real magic begins in the middle of the dash where highly varnished burl wood veneer takes center stage, surrounding vents, buttons, the glove box, and the center console where the somewhat petite shifter rises gently from the base, also showing patina. An AM/FM/Cassette deck is not far away and a trip computer with a row of green buttons sits just above. Low pile carpet covers the floor, and the tan headliner of the canvas roof shows some looseness and dirt, but is fully intact. The trunk is wonderfully configured, covered in carpet, and housing an extra mesh wheel that's tastefully covered. Drivetrain Known for being one of the busiest engine bays in the business, here sits the legendary 5.3 liter V12, fuel injected and capable of putting out 262 horses. It is backed by GM's TH400 3-speed automatic that sends power to the rear axle and 2.88 gears. Our consignor notes that an electric fan has been added to prevent overheating. Undercarriage Given the car's age and mileage, the underside is surprisingly clean and shows obvious care. Independent coil springs suspension is at both front and rear and power disc brakes also occupy both ends. The brake system has been converted to an earlier version to override issues with the ABS that were common in this era. Meanwhile, the dual exhaust ru