1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible

Description

Since its launch in 1975, Jaguar’s flagship GT had gradually matured over the succeeding decade and a half, receiving numerous styling updates, higher-efficiency six and twelve-cylinder engines, and a fixed-roof targa body style by 1983. A factory convertible followed in 1988, removing the controversial flying buttresses at the rear and creating a truly open-air motoring experience. 

Final updates arrived under Ford ownership in 1991, with the introduction of Series III — by far the most refined and best-looking iteration of the Malcolm Sayer design. While it lost its hyphen on the trunk lid, the new “XJS” gained more aerodynamic, rounded front and rear bumpers, new taillights, and tasteful interior flourishes on the instrument panel and center console. The six-cylinder option grew to 4.0 liters, increasing its output to 223 horsepower, while new coil-on-plug ignition further improved reliability. Offered from the final year of an incredible 21-year production life, this 1996 XJS Convertible represents the ultimate expression of Jaguar’s world-class grand tourer. 

“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) 

• Power Coffee convertible top and tonneau cover 

• Interior trim includes: 

  • Walnut dash 

  • Walnut accents on doors 

  • Walnut gear shift knob with green pearl top 

  • Walnut-trimmed steering wheel 

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

• Four-speed automatic transmission 

• The chassis number (SAJNX2744TC223703) decodes as: 

  • SAJ – Jaguar 

  • N – XJS 

  • X – USA dual air bags 

  • 2 – Two-door convertible 2+2 

  • 7 – 4.0-liter engine North America 

  • 4 – Automatic transmission, left-hand drive 

  • T – 1996 model year 

  • C – Brown’s Lane (UK) assembly plant 

  • 223703 – Serial number 

Features 

• Two-door, rear-wheel-drive XJ Series convertible 

• Adjustable, contoured leather front seats with power lumbar support 

• 2+2 backseat

• Instrumentation: 

  • 150 mph speedometer 

  • Tachometer 

  • Battery 

  • Fuel level 

  • Coolant temperature 

  • Oil pressure 

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

• Power steering 

• Power brakes 

• Power windows 

• Power seats 

• Cruise control 

• Center console with storage 

• Courtesy lights on doors 

• Pockets on back of front seats 

• Shoulder belts 

• Raised brake light on trunk 

• Hercules Roadtour 655 MRE 225/60R16 tires 

• Wheelbase: 102 inches 

• Length: 191.2 inches 

• Height: 48.7 inches 

• Width: 69.4 inches 

• Curb Weight: 4,022 pounds 

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 24 gallons 

• Base MSRP: $62,150 ($124,695 today) 

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 up front 

• Paint chip on passenger rear fender 

• Wheels show wear 

• Paint on rear Jaguar badge is chipped 

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 Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. 

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

Title in transit.