1996 Jaguar XJS

GREAT DRIVER! Convertible

4.0-Litre

Automatic

SAJNX2744TC225953

Clear

Gasoline

1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible In September 1975, the XJ-S, Jaguar’s luxury GT coupe was introduced as a replacement to the now legendary Jaguar E-Type. Based on the XJ saloon, it was developed as the XK-F though very dissimilar from its predecessor. A competent grand-tourer, it was a much more modern car than the E-type, with zero to 60mph times in the high 6-second range and a 150mph maximum speed. Re-engineered in 1991 with a substantial face-lift, Jaguar dropped the hyphen and the car was renamed the XJS. The new car incorporated body styling updates, the adoption of the AJ6 4.0 litre engine and a totally redesigned interior. For the full convertible, Jaguar turned for assistance to coachbuilders Karmann in Osnabruck, a firm with considerable expertise in the manufacture of open cars. Aiming for a smoother and more contemporary look, nearly 40% of the vehicles body panels were changed including the rear wings, sills, doors and boot. The 4.0 litre Convertible in the XJS line was introduced the following year. The main detail that did not change was the flying buttresses which the designer Geoff Lawson argued were ‘part of the car's character'. Continually developed until the introduction of its successor, the car was produced until April 4,1996. Described as 'a joy to drive', this local Southern California native XJS 4.0-Litre Convertible from the last and most desirable year of production, has been owned by only two owners and has covered 81,788 miles from new. Finished in a vibrant with cream leather interior, this car . The original Carnival Red paint finish is generally excellent, though the previous elderly owner obviously had a few driving challenges. The car has been gently hit on several panels, though never enough to deploy airbags and the Carfax report is clear, and the title is clean. There is a dent in the front bumper, creasing the red panel and bending the chrome trim. There is a dent on the panel immediately behind the passenger door, and a few minor dings around the car. See photos for damaged panels. Generally, the chrome and brightwork is very good. The chrome alloy wheels, unique in design to the 1996 model, have some loss of chrome, and are shod with tires showing considerable wear. The original soft top is in excellent condition and operates perfectly. The interior of the car is excellent, with little to no wear on the leather seat surfaces on the freshly designed bucket seats, panels, dash and carpet. The tan leather is accented by perfect burr walnut veneer, including the standard for ’96 adjustable wood-trimmed steering wheel. Mechanically the car is also excellent. The 4.0 ‘6’ is quiet, yet powerful and responsive. Transmission is smooth and brakes, suspension and steering are all very good. The AC blows cold, and the car comes with original books and manuals.