V12 Drop-Top! 1988 Hess & Eisenhardt Jaguar XJS

While the Land of Lincoln doesn’t immediately spring to mind when picturing a smooth and well-preserved Jaguar convertible, that’s exactly what we see with this Quincy, Illinois classic. The 1988 Jaguar Hess & Eisenhardt convertible “needs nothing,” according to the seller, and recently completed a 900 mile trip. Though mileage is not mentioned, the odometer reads 83,170 which could be original based on the wear shown. Check out the listing right here on BarnFinds Classifieds for more pictures and details. How many clean-looking, excellent driving, V12 convertibles go for less than the asking price of $9500?

Based on my limited experience piloting Jaguars, those leather seats are as soft and inviting as they look, and the burled walnut dash trim exudes pure luxury. Take hold of the cat-head steering wheel and point the long hood toward your favorite destination, near or far. Only anger or frustration will summon the Tachometer much above 2000 RPM.

BBS-style wheels would have been the cat’s meow when this high-roller left the factory, the factory in Ohio, that is. That’s right;  Jaguar commissioned coach builder Hess & Eisenhardt to convert XJS coupes into convertibles from 1986 through 1988 before taking over with a convertible of its own. Interestingly, the H & E drop-top folds into the body more completely than Jaguar’s own version, making a more tidy appearance when cruising sans roof. Thanks to Wikipedia for some details. Oddly both sides show some color difference just behind the doors, so either the car had its front clip and doors re-painted or it’s merely an optical illusion.

The 5.3L V12 made 291 HP and 317 lb-ft of torque, enough thrust for naught to 60 in under seven seconds, an experience most Jaguar owners initiate as often as they visit the Dollar Store. If your bucket list includes owning a V12 vehicle and also owning a stately convertible, here’s your chance to check off two boxes for one low price. Sure; that’s a lot of hoses and wires and mechanical doo-dads, but simply lower the bonnet and forget about that whole mess. Where’s my checkbook? That’s what mechanics are for! Thanks to Automobile-Catalog for some details.

What top-down, wind-in-your-hair cruiser is complete without a plywood box filled with twin subwoofers? Wait; what? Perhaps a fine linen cover would add some class to the JBL sound system, but it certainly appears capable of overpowering wind noise. Few cars will make you want to smoke a cigar more than this laid-back Jag, women included. My Dad’s friends Gordon had a car like this, and referred to it as his A__ Wagon because it was (apparently) quite a hit with the ladies. Can you see yourself cruising in this fine V12 drop-top Jag?