1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1996 Jaguar XJS marked the final chapter of a grand tourer that had defined British luxury performance for over two decades. Originally launched in 1975 as the XJ-S, the model was conceived as a successor to the legendary E-Type. Its design, featuring distinctive rear buttresses and a long, elegant profile, was the work of Malcolm Sayer and later refined by Geoff Lawson. 

By 1996, the XJS had evolved significantly. Under Ford’s ownership, Jaguar introduced modern updates and dropped the hyphen from the name. The final model year offered two engine options: a 4.0-liter inline-six producing 245 horsepower and a 6.0-liter V12 delivering 313 hp. Buyers could choose between a coupe or convertible. 

The 1996 XJS was also notable for being the longest-running Jaguar model at the time, celebrating its 20th anniversary. It was eventually succeeded by the XK8, but the XJS remains a beloved classic, admired for its blend of performance, comfort, and timeless design. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of Jaguar’s transition from traditional British luxury to a more modern, globally competitive brand. 

“Pamper the body, stir the soul, lift the heart,” Jaguar’s 1996 brochure read. “No luxury car on earth is likely to make you feel more liberated or more exhilarated than a Jaguar.” 

Highlights 

• Finished in British Racing Green paint (code HFB) over Coffee leather/walnut trim interior (code SDC) 

• Coffee convertible top and tonneau cover 

• Powered by a 4.0-liter inline-six engine rated at 237 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque 

• Four-speed automatic transmission 

Features 

• Power steering, brakes, windows, and seats 

• Adjustable, contoured leather front seats and 2+2 backseat 

• Air conditioning 

• Cruise control 

• Walnut dash, door accents, steering wheel, and gear shift knob (green pearl top) 

• Factory AM/FM/CD/Cassette stereo with Alpine CD changer in trunk 

• 150 mph speedometer and 7,000 rpm tachometer (5,700 redline) 

• Hercules Roadtour 655 MRE 225/60R16 tires 

Known Imperfections 

• According to its CARFAX Vehicle History Report, this 1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible was involved in two accidents: On 12 May 2008, it “ran off the road” and “hit a stationary object,” causing “damage to left front ... right front ... and front”; and on 25 February 2014, it was “involved in a sideswipe collision with another motor vehicle” causing “damage to left front”  

• Paint chips below grille

• Paint chip on passenger rear fender

Included 

• Spare tire with cover 

• Jack 

• 1996 U.S. brochure 

• Jaguar Royal Charter Care membership packet and card 

• Driver’s handbook, sound system, and security booklets 

• Alpine CD changer manual 

• Leather Jaguar folder (worn) 

Ownership History 

According to the accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report, this 1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible was originally purchased in Sarasota, Florida, on 13 December 1995. It was sold on 5 August 2000 in Venice, Florida, and remained there for 17 years before going to a resident of Ellenton, Florida, on 2 January 2017. The Jaguar’s fourth owner, an Arizona resident, acquired the car on 24 February 2020. 

Additional Notes  

A Broad Arrow Representative is working as an agent on behalf of the seller of this vehicle. As such, the purchase transaction will be facilitated by Broad Arrow, including vehicle payment, applicable taxes required to be collected by the seller or Broad Arrow, and title/ownership reassignment. Broad Arrow is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Craig Zimmerman Phone: 586.707.5811‬ Email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com