1994 JAGUAR XJS 4.0 CONVERTIBLE Registration Number: M240 A...

Estimate

£12,000 - £14,000

1994 JAGUAR XJS 4.0 CONVERTIBLE

Registration Number: M240 AGN                    
Chassis Number: SAJJNAFD3EJ193196
Recorded Mileage: c.90,000 miles 

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.

Finished in an attractive shade of Sapphire Blue with a complementing cream leather interior and navy blue roof, this later facelifted example, fitted with the improved 4.0 litre version of the AJ16 engine, has had much care and attention lavished on it in the last few years. The coachwork was refinished in 2016 to a good standard, the convertible roof replaced in 2018, and other items attended to as and when required. Having covered very few miles in recent years as part of a small collection, the XJS has just been prepared and will be driven 300 miles prior to sale. The car will be furnished with a new MoT certificate, replacement battery and alternator, and attention to the front brakes, comprising new calipers and discs to the front. Additionally the crank sensor has recently been replaced and the electrical system tested.

Opening the history file reveals the original book pack, a comprehensively stamped service record, previous MoT test certificate, also various invoices, receipts and photographs over the years. XJS Convertibles are the ultimate fast summer touring cars - what better way to travel across the country, even the continent?