1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible Registration Number: F735 PBH ...

Estimate

£7,000 - £9,000

1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible

Registration Number: F735 PBH
Chassis Number: SAJJNADW3DB161938
Recorded Mileage: 71,600 miles

- In current ownershp for c.10 years
- Subject to much renovation in current ownership

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 registered in May 1989, finished in Glacier White with a Navy blue leather interior. In current ownership for now some 10 years, the XJ-S has been cosmetically improved with the coachwork being completely repainted as original, and all alloy wheels refurbished. The interior wood veneers have also been removed and refinished as original. Kept in dry storage, we understand the car is extremely solid both at eye level and importantly to the floors and sill areas. 

The Jaguar benefits from a recent service, with new spark plugs, fuel pump, and two new rear tyres. The ABS system has also been overhauled, and the headlights have been improved with a popular quad-lamp conversion. The Jaguar will be offered with a new MoT certificate prior to sale, and UK V5C.

XJS Convertibles are great summer touring cars, and this original example we are sure will make a fine way to cross the country, or even the continent.