The first XJ was launched in 1968 and the designation has been used for successive Jaguar flagship models ever since.

The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have had the input of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder.

With the introduction of the X308 generation in 1997 came a switch from the 'XJ6' nomenclature to 'XJ8', reflecting the fact that the X308 cars were powered by a new V8 engine.

The exterior styling of the X308 was similar to its predecessor the X300, with minor refinements such as a change to oval indicator lenses and round fog lights.

The interior was also updated to eliminate the instrument binnacle used on the X300; instead, three large gauges were set into recesses in the walnut faced dashboard in front of the driver.

The major mechanical change was the replacement of both the inline six and V12 engines with new eight cylinder V8 in either 3.2 litre or 4.0 litre versions and all were automatic.

This absolutely superb example imported from Japan is p...