1995 Jaguar XJ-S 4.0 "Celebration" Convertible  Registratio...

Hammer

£13,000

1995 Jaguar XJ-S 4.0 "Celebration" Convertible 

Registration Number: L50 XJS (originally M32 UAL)                       
Chassis Number: SAJJNAFD3EJ221997
Recorded Mileage: 74,000 miles

Saleroom Notice: Reserve now lowered

- Genuine low mileage example with comprehensive history
- Rare genuine Celebration edition

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.

In April 1994, substantial revisions were made to the 4.0-litre AJ6 engine, which was now equipped with coil-on-plug ignition and given the new code name AJ16. In 1995, the final specification changes were made and the car was referred to as the Celebration model, to celebrate the 60th year of Jaguar Cars. Celebration cars feature diamond turned wheels, Jaguar embossed seats, and a wooden steering wheel.

Finished in a lovely shade of Flamenco Red with a complementing magnolia leather interior, black roof and cream hood bag, this very attractive later facelifted “Celebration” model, has been the care of a Jaguar Enthusiasts Club member for some years. We understand in this time, due to its condition the car was entered into club concours events. 

Showing now just 74,000 miles recorded over 31 years, this lovely XJ-S is supplied with a comprehensive history file, containing 18 stamps up to 2016, at which point the car was purchased by the current owner for the sum of £31,000. The file contains sundry further maintenance bills, and all books are present. The XJ-S will come with a recent check over and newly issued MoT certificate. 

Sitting in the sumptuous leather interior, cooled by air conditioning, your hands on a wood and leather steering wheel, CD changer playing and with the wind deflector maintaining a civilised cabin, what better way to travel across the country, even the continent?

Note: according to an accompanying HPI report, the registration number L50 XJS has been flagged as insurance loss on 20th July 2004. However we are aware that the car was sold via retail by a respected dealer around 10 days later on 30th July 2004. Additionally we have viewed the vehicle prior to sale and can find no evidence of previous damage. Our belief is the HPI report relates to the cherished plate L50 XJS as opposed to this chassis (originally registered as M32 UAL), however we would encourage buyers to satisfy themselves of this prior to bidding.