1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible Registration Number: TBA Chass...

Estimate

£13,000 - £18,000

1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible

Registration Number: TBA
Chassis Number: SAJJNADW3DB157657
Recorded Mileage: 44,400 miles

- Genuine well cared-for low mileage example 
- In current ownership since 2006
- Extensive maintenance history with 19 stamps recorded

Jaguar's first response to demands for an open-top XJ-S was somewhat conservative in engineering terms. The XJ-S had not been designed with an open version in mind, so a Targa-style arrangement was adopted, which retained a substantial roll hoop in the interests of maintaining rigidity in the absence of a fixed roof. Two removable roof panels were stored in the boot, and the Cabriolet did away with the Coupé's two occasional rear seats in favour of a pair of luggage lockers topped by a parcel shelf. Essentially an exercise in niche marketing to test public reaction, the XJ-S Cabriolet's production was entrusted to outside specialist contractors, with bodyshells being transported back and forth across the Midlands before returning to the Brown's Lane factory prior to final despatch.

Having demonstrated that there was indeed sufficient demand to justify production of an open XJ-S, Jaguar grasped the nettle and proceeded to develop a conventional full convertible. For the latter they turned for assistance to coachbuilders Karmann in Osnabruck, a firm with considerable expertise in the manufacture of open cars. As well as developing the host of new panels and associated tooling required, Karmann also designed the hood, which was electro-hydraulically operated and featured a full lining and glass rear window complete with heating element. Today, this model is very much establishing itself as a most worthy latter day classic; good examples being eagerly sought by connoisseurs of the marque.

This striking XJ-S Convertible was first sold by Mann Egerton in April 1989, finished in Signal Red with a Black leather interior and mohair roof. We gather this was an unusual colour scheme as most XJ-S were sold with tan as opposed to black trim at the time.

The XJ-S has just three previous owners from new, with the current keeper acquiring the car in 2006 to join a private collection based on the Channel Islands. When purchased this example was especially selected by Cooper BMW of Cobham as a perfect example to suit the collection. 

Although annual mileage has been relatively nominal through the years, the Jaguar has been consistently maintained, as demonstrated by some 19 service stamps in the original service booklet. Very recently the Jaguar has enjoyed much investment to ensure it remains in top mechanical condition, in keeping with the car's exceptional bodywork and near unmarked original interior. 

This lovely example is still fitted with its unused factory Pirelli tyre in the spare wheel well, retains its original tool kit, jack and hood bag, and correct Jaguar branded radio cassette player.

Included in the history file are all the original dealer books and paperwork, stamped service book, numerous main agent and specialist invoices, also a separate list of recent works carried out. Also present are a new MoT to August 2026 and a number of older MoT certificates. An extremely genuine example in collector’s grade condition, this beautiful XJ-S stands head and shoulders above the competition.