Celebration Edition: 1996 Jaguar XJS Convertible – Sold?

January 5, 2022 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Special editions are a dime a dozen, but certain models may actually be worth a closer look if a limited-edition trim package signified the beginning or end of an era. In the case of this 1996 Jaguar XJS Celebration Edition convertible originally listed in December 2021 on Craigslist in Lantana, Florida, you’re effectively buying the last of the line. This one is on sale for $35,000 and benefits from extensive recent reconditioning, but bear in mind the premium price you’re paying is for cosmetic enhancements only. Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has his XJS priced at the top of the market for a convertible, with the price guide valuing Concours cars at $36,200.

The Jaguar XJS is both an entry-level collector car and a potentially pricey acquisition. In the case of the former, it has most likely been ignored and left for near dead, with years of deferred maintenance piling up. It may be cheap to buy, but that’s where it ends being affordable. To buy a nice one is to consider a car like this, but you’ll be picking up the best version of a model that is somewhat widely available in terms of how many are for sale on craigslist at a given time – which can sometimes translate to stagnant values. The XJS is no doubt a modern classic based on how popular the model proved to be despite its shortcomings, and for being the last of the old-school Jaguar, in many ways. Whether you choose an inline-six or V12 is up to you, but the former will likely present fewer headaches.

The Photographer’s Garage YouTube Channel provides this great point of view (“POV”) walk-around and rive video of a similar 1996 Jaguar XJS convertible:

This Celebration Edition does look like it may deserve its asking price, as we rarely see XJSs presented quite this well. All of the cosmetic upgrades are on full display, from the two-tone interior to the contrasting top to the fully carpeted trunk. The seller’s car also sports a few additional upgrades, some of which we could do without – the chrome wheels aren’t exactly tasteful (thankfully, the handsome Celebration Edition wheels are included), and while the three-spoke steering wheel likely provides better steering response, it seems out of place here. These gripes aside, it’s the healthy list of recent maintenance that makes this XJS so appealing, including a new convertible top motor, brakes, refreshed air conditioning system, and more. This end-of-the-line XJS looks like the ultimate Pompano Beach cruiser – will you be moving it to a new zip code? Good luck with the purchase if so.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Showroom condition.
New convertible top, new interior.
Designed by a world-renowned auto designer.
Refurbished air conditioning, from the compressor to motor fans.
New Tires. Additional front and additional back tires (new) will also be included in the sale.
Aftermarket designer rims, (originals included with purchase)
New rotors were replaced including brake pads.
New wiper blades.
New battery.
Headlamps restored.
Convertible top motor pump replaced.
Odometer was replaced, (trip counter not working).
Mileage stands at under14,000 but it’s safe to assume it’s got 114,000 total miles.
Antilock brakes and dual front airbags.
The convertible top’s headliner is in excellent condition, and seat adjustments work properly. The carpeted trunk, which includes a matching spare tire cover, is in very clean condition. All interior systems are working properly, including air conditioning, heat, power locks, and windows, and the original stereo.
Cassette player in the trunk in perfect working order.
The convertible top has a boot.“

Do you have a Jaguar XJS story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!