1987 Jaguar SJ-XC V12
1987 Jaguar XJ-SC
BEAUTIFUL XJ-SC W/ ONLY 69K ORIG MILES! CLEAN HISTORY, 2 OWNER CAR, NICE!!
This striking 1987 Jaguar XJ-SC looks like it should cost far more than it does. While the XJS isn't everyone's cup of tea, it's hard to resist the silky smooth V12 powerplant, long, lean bodywork, and supremely comfortable interior. Add in the unusual early cabriolet body style and just 69K original miles and you have an all-seasons Jag that simply works like you'd expect.The long, sinuous lines of the XJS have aged gracefully and they're still cars that look like they should cost thousands more than they do. Finished in Talisman Silver Metallic paint, this one looks like money on wheels, with a beautiful gloss that speaks volumes about the original finish that came from Coventry more than 30 years ago. Fit and finish were never a problem for Jaguar, and the cars certainly looked expensive going down the road, which was a big part of the appeal. Jaguars were immensely tasteful, with just enough chrome to add contrast without being gaudy. The XJS's most notable features, the "flying buttress" C-pillars, have been eliminated with the cabrio bodywork, but it still cuts a dashing profile that's quite elegant. Details like the rubber bumpers are in good order without the chalky look that would suggest a car that spent a lot of time outside and the versatile top makes for a car that's good year-round.
The blue leather interior is understated and crafted from high-quality materials that have withstood the test of time. The leather seats have just the right amount of wear to look comfortable but not worn out, and everything from the wood to the carpets on the floors were the best materials money could buy in 1987. The gauges are large and easy to read and remarkably, fully functional with V12 powerplant. The only notable demerit might be the A/C, which isn't currently working but since it's all reliable GM hardware in there, getting it operational shouldn't be a challenge. The top offers solid lift-off panels above the front seats and a folding canvas top in back, which was Jaguar's solution to body rigidity issues and the car feels commendably tight going down the road today. There's also an AM/FM/cassette stereo system and the trunk is remarkably deep and well-shaped, even with a full-sized spare tire back there.
The XJS's 5.3 liter SOHC V12 is an impressive performer, and with fuel injection it's a low-maintenance machine that's remarkably easy to live with. It starts quickly and easily and there's a feel to a twelve-cylinder motorcar that nothing else can match; it feels special from the moment you turn the key. Thanks to so few miles, the engine bay is sparkling clean and looks just the way it would have when it rolled off the showroom floor. The 3-speed automatic transmission is a bulletproof GM TH400, so no worries there, and it powers the Jag's original rear end, which also means the supple yet athletic suspension remains intact. A dual exhaust system sounds smooth and quiet but lets the V12 howl when you run hard, and the superb combination of ride and handling that Jaguar engineers achieve is nothing short of miraculous. A beautiful low-mileage car, this Jag is ready to enjoy at any level, even as a daily driver. If you're tired of the same-old, same-old, this awesome Jag is a sure-fire cure.
