Registration No: G252 APF
Chassis No: SAJJDALW3CA481014
MOT: September 2024

• Said to be 'a stunning example'
• Self-evidently well cared for by its three former keepers
• Pininfarina styling, turbine smooth V12 and cossetting wood and leather interior

Hailed by the contemporary motoring press as “the fastest full four-seater in the world” upon its July 1972 launch, the original XJ12 evolved through three series. The last of these arrived in April 1979 and saw the sleek silhouette that marque founder Sir William Lyons had penned revised by Pininfarina. As well as an airier glasshouse, the newcomer featured flush-fitting door handles, re-profiled tail lights (with integral reversing lights) and surprisingly elegant impact bumpers. Often compared to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, the Series III XJ12 was among the most accomplished luxury saloons of its generation. Noted for the refinement of its fabulously smooth 5343cc SOHC V12 and slick three-speed automatic gearbox, criticisms as to fuel economy were alleviated to some degree by the introduction of a new H.E. engine in 1981. Despite developing more power and torque (some 299bhp and 318lbft respectively) courtesy of its redesigned Michael May cylinder heads, this new High Efficiency unit was said to reduce fuel consumption by up to twenty-five per cent. Reputedly capable of sprinting to 60mph in 7.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 151mph, the Series III XJ12 was for many the last true bastion of pre-Ford Jaguar.

Finished in the handsome combination of Solent Blue Metallic with Beige leather upholstery, this particular example has led a charmed existence. Warranted to have covered a modest 71,000 miles from new, no fewer than twenty-one of its twenty-two documented services were carried out by Jaguar main dealers! Indeed, the vendor considers that ‘there cannot be many left as nice as this one’. First registered in Surrey (or so its ‘G252 APF’ number plate would imply), the XJ12 is understood to have had three former keepers. Riding on correct-type ‘Pepperpot’ alloy wheels, the luxury saloon appears to be to standard specification throughout except for the substation of an elegant wood rimmed steering wheel and a more modern stereo. Worthy of close inspection, this much loved Series III XJ12 is offered for sale with V5C Registration Document, history file and ‘no advisories’ MOT certificate valid until September 2024.

For more information, please contact:
Damian Jones
damian.jones@handh.co.uk
07855 493737