Jaguar’s XJS was primarily designed by Malcolm Sayer, with input from Sir William Lyons.

Struggling financially at the time, the company needed a success and the highly anticipated new model, seen by many as a direct replacement for the E-Type, was in a league of its own when unveiled in 1976.

In 1991, parent company Ford spent £50 million rejuvenating the design, incorporating 40 percent new panels, revised grille, headlamps, tail-lights, bumpers, rear wings, new walnut facia and improved sports seats.

Powered by a punchy straight-six (3980cc) or soporific V12 (5343cc), five-speed manual transmission was standard, although the 4.0-litre could be had with a four-speed automatic.

Capable of 140mph, the model proved to be a refined drive, with production continuing until 1996.

Finished in Kingfisher blue over a Magnolia leather interior this example registers c.72,000 miles and is understood to have been in storage for some 16 years prior to our vendor acquiring it in 2015 and spend...