Description
Jaguar XJS V12 | 1989
Highlights:
- 5.3L V12 engine with Lucas digital fuel injection
- Recently repainted in British Racing Green
- Interior in good original condition with leather and wood trim
- Factory-equipped with ABS, power steering, and disc brakes
- Imported from Canada and stored carefully in Europe since 2022
The seller offers for sale this 1989 Jaguar XJS V12, a grand tourer built for long-distance comfort and refined power. Finished in British Racing Green, this car is equipped with a 5.3-litre V12 petrol engine, coupled to a 3-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. With 291 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, the XJS V12 offered impressive performance in its day and retains strong road presence today. The vehicle also benefits from Lucas digital fuel injection and ABS braking, reinforcing its place among luxury GTs of its era. Originally registered in Ontario, Canada, it was imported to Europe in 2022 and has since been kept in good working order.
The exterior was recently repainted, while the engine bay and trunk remain in original paint, described as being in good condition. The bodywork presents well overall, with only minor imperfections as expected from a vehicle of this age. The interior has been preserved in good condition, featuring factory leather upholstery, rich wood trim, and the classic ergonomics typical of Jaguar’s late-80s design language. It has been maintained regularly, and the wear seen inside is minimal.
Mechanically, the car is in a good condition and is roadworthy, although it does not currently have a valid inspection—the last MOT was conducted in Ontario in 2022. Indicators, lighting, and brake lights are in working order. It is equipped with factory-installed power steering and disc brakes. Recently, the car received an oil change, new brake fluid, filters, and coolant, supporting its continued use for regular driving.
The Jaguar XJS was introduced in 1975 as a luxurious successor to the iconic E-Type. While it initially drew mixed reactions for departing from the sporting lineage of its predecessor, over time it came to be appreciated as a refined long-distance tourer. The XJS underwent numerous updates during its long production run, with the V12 variant standing at the top of the range for its smooth, powerful delivery and technical sophistication. By 1989, the High-Efficiency (HE) version of the V12 had improved fuel consumption and drivability, enhancing the grand touring appeal.
Designed with comfort and high-speed cruising in mind, the XJS carved out its own niche against German competitors like the Mercedes SL and Porsche 928. Despite its weight and complexity, the car handled well and was praised for its serene ride and stable cornering. Inside, it offered a level of luxury that was expected from a brand like Jaguar, with attention to detail and materials. Over the years, the XJS has gained recognition as a modern classic, and the V12 version is particularly valued by collectors and enthusiasts who seek an authentic example of British motoring refinement from the late 20th century.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Bačka district, Serbia.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Canadian (Ontario) registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.