The 1990 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible represents a particularly elegant chapter in Jaguar’s grand touring history, combining timeless British luxury with the effortless performance of its celebrated twelve-cylinder engine. Originally introduced in 1975 as the successor to the legendary E-Type, the XJS gradually established its own identity as one of Britain’s most distinguished luxury grand tourers. By 1990, the model had evolved into a sophisticated and beautifully appointed motor car, offering an appealing combination of refinement, comfort and unmistakable Jaguar character.

Powered by Jaguar’s renowned 5.3-litre HE V12 engine, the XJS Convertible delivers the smooth, effortless performance that became a hallmark of the marque. Producing approximately 295 horsepower, depending on market specification, the twelve-cylinder engine provides impressive acceleration and relaxed high-speed cruising, complemented by a smooth automatic transmission. Unlike more conventional sports cars, the XJS was designed primarily as a grand tourer, equally at home on winding country roads or covering long distances in considerable comfort. Its combination of power, refinement and distinctive styling made it a serious contender in the international luxury car market.

Today, the XJS V12 Convertible is increasingly appreciated as an important modern classic, representing an era when Jaguar remained committed to building luxurious, twelve-cylinder grand touring motor cars. The fully convertible body, introduced in 1988, brought an additional dimension of open-air motoring to the XJS range, while retaining the elegance and sophistication for which the model had become renowned. With its long bonnet, graceful proportions and unmistakable road presence, the 1990 XJS V12 Convertible offers enthusiasts an appealing opportunity to experience traditional Jaguar motoring at its finest.

Graceful, powerful and unmistakably British, the 1990 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible represents everything that made Jaguar one of the world’s most respected manufacturers of luxury grand touring motor cars. With its long bonnet, sweeping lines and beautifully appointed interior, the XJS embodies an era when elegance, refinement and effortless performance took precedence over outright sporting aggression. It remains one of Jaguar’s most distinctive designs and a particularly appealing alternative to the more conventional luxury convertibles of its generation.

The 1990 model sits within the latter half of the XJS production era, by which time Jaguar had refined and developed the model considerably since its introduction in 1975. The fully convertible version, introduced in 1988, transformed the character of the XJS, offering the freedom of open-air motoring without compromising the comfort and sophistication expected of Jaguar’s flagship grand tourer. While the original XJS coupe initially divided opinion, the convertible’s elegant proportions have earned it considerable admiration among Jaguar enthusiasts.

At the heart of this motor car lies Jaguar’s legendary 5.3-litre V12 engine, coupled to the proven General Motors three-speed automatic transmission. The twelve-cylinder engine is exceptionally smooth and refined, delivering generous torque and effortless acceleration with a character that few modern engines can replicate. Although outright performance may no longer impress by today’s standards, the experience of driving a V12 Jaguar remains something rather special. Combined with the XJS’s supple suspension and relaxed road manners, it is a motor car designed to cover long distances in considerable comfort.

This Particular Jaguar

Offered here is a particularly attractive, low-mileage example of the 1990 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible, presenting in excellent overall condition and benefiting from careful ownership and recent mechanical attention.

Originally imported from Japan in September 2006, this Jaguar has had just three owners in New Zealand, with the previous custodian retaining the vehicle for an impressive 12 years. Its ownership history, attractive presentation and desirable V12 specification make it an appealing proposition for the traditional Jaguar enthusiast.

The car has recently been serviced by Nick’s Garage in North Canterbury and runs and drives beautifully. Its smooth engine, comfortable ride and relaxed cruising ability are exactly what one would expect from a well-maintained Jaguar grand tourer.

Vehicle Highlights and Features

• 1990 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible
• Desirable 5.3-litre V12 petrol engine.
• Smooth three-speed GM automatic transmission.
• Factory full convertible, rather than the earlier Cabriolet configuration.
• Low-mileage example.
• Imported from Japan in September 2006.
• Three New Zealand owners since importation.
• Previous owner retained the vehicle for 12 years.
• Recently serviced by Nick’s Garage, North Canterbury.
• Runs and drives beautifully.
• Excellent body presentation with clean, straight panels.
• Stunning paintwork with an attractive finish.
• Brand-new convertible soft top.
• Beautifully presented leather interior in excellent condition.
• Rich timber dashboard and interior trim.
• Electrically operated windows and luxury appointments.
• Factory lattice-style alloy wheels.
• Good whitewall tyres complementing the car’s classic appearance.
• Power steering, automatic transmission and comfortable touring suspension.
• An exceptionally attractive example of Jaguar’s celebrated V12 grand tourer.

On the Road

The XJS V12 Convertible was never intended to be a lightweight, sharp-handling sports car. Instead, Jaguar concentrated on creating a refined and sophisticated grand tourer, capable of transporting its occupants over considerable distances with minimal effort.

Its suspension is soft and supple, absorbing road imperfections with the composure that has long been a hallmark of the Jaguar marque. The V12 engine operates with remarkable smoothness, while the automatic transmission complements the car’s relaxed character. Whether travelling along open country roads or cruising at motorway speeds, the XJS delivers a wonderfully traditional Jaguar driving experience.

With the roof lowered, the experience becomes even more enjoyable. The combination of open-air motoring, twelve-cylinder refinement and luxurious surroundings gives the XJS Convertible a character quite different from that of a modern sports car.

Collectibility and Market Appeal

The Jaguar XJS has gradually emerged from the shadow of its legendary predecessor, the E-Type, to establish an increasingly recognised place in the classic car market. Once regarded primarily as a used luxury grand tourer, the model is now appreciated for its distinctive styling, engineering sophistication and importance in Jaguar’s history.

Among the various XJS derivatives, the V12 Convertible holds particular appeal. Its combination of the desirable twelve-cylinder engine and elegant open bodywork makes it one of the more sought-after configurations, especially when presented in excellent condition with sensible mileage and evidence of ongoing maintenance.

Compared with the considerably more expensive E-Type, the XJS continues to offer an accessible entry into classic twelve-cylinder Jaguar ownership. While values vary substantially according to condition, provenance and mechanical integrity, the better examples are attracting increasing interest from enthusiasts who recognise the appeal of these sophisticated British grand tourers.

Importantly, the XJS is a motor car best purchased for the enjoyment it provides rather than purely as a financial investment. However, well-preserved examples with attractive specifications and strong presentation are arguably better positioned for long-term collector interest than neglected or heavily modified cars.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 1990 Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible is a particularly appealing example of traditional British grand touring. With its stunning presentation, beautiful leather interior, brand-new soft top and smooth twelve-cylinder performance, it offers a wonderful combination of style, comfort and classic Jaguar character.

For the enthusiast seeking something elegant and distinctive for weekend motoring, leisurely touring or simply the pleasure of owning one of Jaguar’s most recognisable modern classics, this XJS deserves serious consideration.

A beautifully presented V12 Convertible that captures the charm, sophistication and effortless motoring experience for which Jaguar has long been celebrated.

The Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible occupies an increasingly interesting position in the international collector car market, representing a period of automotive glamour, sophistication and exclusivity that is becoming difficult to replicate. There was a time when ownership of a twelve-cylinder Jaguar was a statement of considerable distinction, associated with successful professionals, established wealth and an appreciation for understated British luxury. Unlike many contemporary performance cars that sought attention through aggressive styling and outright speed, the XJS appealed to a more discerning clientele who valued refinement, elegance and prestige. That association remains an important part of its appeal today, particularly as collectors increasingly recognise the character and individuality of luxury motor cars from this era.

From an investment and collectibility perspective, the XJS has historically been overshadowed by earlier Jaguar models, resulting in values that have remained comparatively accessible despite the car’s original prestige and engineering sophistication. However, the market is becoming increasingly selective, with greater emphasis placed on originality, condition, mileage, ownership history and the quality of maintenance. Exceptional examples are becoming harder to source, particularly as the cost of properly maintaining or restoring a V12 Jaguar can easily exceed the value of an average car. Consequently, the difference in market value between ordinary examples and genuinely well-preserved vehicles can be substantial. While appreciation is never guaranteed, there is a reasonable argument that the finest surviving V12 Convertibles possess greater long-term collector potential than their present market standing might suggest.

Looking ahead, the appeal of the XJS V12 Convertible is likely to be strengthened by the increasing scarcity of traditional twelve-cylinder luxury motor cars and the growing appreciation of analogue motoring experiences. The combination of exclusivity, glamorous styling and mechanical sophistication gives the model an enduring identity that transcends changing automotive fashions. Although the market for classic Jaguars remains subject to economic conditions and evolving collector preferences, the most desirable examples should continue to attract buyers who appreciate quality, provenance and individuality. For those prepared to take a longer-term view, the XJS V12 Convertible offers an appealing balance between attainable classic car ownership, genuine motoring enjoyment and the possibility of future capital appreciation. Above all, it represents an increasingly distinctive expression of Jaguar’s luxury motoring heritage, with a presence and character that remain difficult to match at its price level.

New Zealand Sales
Unless otherwise stated, vehicles sold for use in New Zealand will be supplied with a new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and 12 months New Zealand registration at the time of sale.

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For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime, or contact us through the form below.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.

NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993

Waimak Group Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”. Waimak Group Ltd is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Group Ltd does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Group Ltd.

The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.