Lot 025: 1994 JAGUAR XJ6 3.2 LITRE

Shortly after finalising its £1.6 billion takeover of Jaguar in early 1990, Ford instigated a major new quality control drive at Browns Lane. Among the first to benefit was the recently revamped XJ6 model range. As well as a choice of larger 3.2 DOHC and 4.0 DOHC AJ6 straight-six engines, those contemplating Britain's best-selling executive car were confronted by a new dashboard (complete with analogue rather than digital instruments) and improved door handles / higher security locks. Though, the excellence of the basic design's all-round independent suspension, power-assisted rack and pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes meant that 'under the skin' changes were kept to a minimum. Although, not as potent as its 4.0 litre sibling (200bhp / 220lbft vs 223bhp / 278lbft), the 3.2 litre powerplant boasted better fuel economy and more than adequate performance. Equipped with Jaguar's renowned four-speed automatic 'J-gate' transmission as standard, the smaller-engined XJ6 was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.1 seconds and 135mph. In 1994 Jaguar was readying itself for the launch of the X300 model to replace the XJ40 but one last model called the XJ6 Gold was launched. It was essentially a 3.2 XJ6 with leather upholstery, automatic transmission, burr walnut trim and 16" alloy wheels as standard. At £28,950 this car was very cheap considering the level of specification and even featured gold plated "Jaguar" and "XJ6 Gold" badges on the boot. This example is described as having immaculate and unblemished metallic damson red bodywork with the beige leather interior and the usual high specification that Jaguar is famous for including air conditioning. It has completed a warranted 78000 miles from new and comes with a full main dealer history up to 62000 miles and several old MOT certificates plus it is currently MOT'd until November 2008 as well as being taxed for the road until April next year. This simply has to be one of the best value saloons available.