Lot 12: Jaguar Sovereign 5.3

In 1986, the Series III XJ6 was replaced with a new model, designated XJ40.  From the outset the XJ40 was designed with a narrower engine bay to preclude the use of a 'V' configured engine, as Jaguar, while under the control of British Leyland, abhorred the idea of the V8 Rover engine being foisted upon them.  However, the Series III cars were still available, on special order, with the silken smooth 5.3-litre V12 as first seen in the 'E'-Type Series III.  These cars continued, assembled by hand, until 1993, when the inner wings of the XJ40 were finally altered to accept the V12 unit, now enlarged to 6 litres. The Sovereign V12 presented for sale here is of 1988 manufacture.  (The received wisdom suggests that during that year just twelve examples were built, eight of which were badged as Daimlers and the remaining four as Jaguars.)  The car is finished in Cranberry red with doeskin leather interior and has been in the care of its current custodian since 1993.  It was used as a second car until a new S-Type Jaguar was acquired towards the end of 2002.  Two years ago we are advised that much refurbishment was undertaken upon the bodywork and the car is said to be of good appearance with extensive service history up to 2001 being provided.  As less than 1000 miles per annum have been covered over the past five years, subsequent servicing has been carried out on an annual basis when MOT tests were undertaken.  The car has been shown at a number of Jaguar events and the vendor hopes that it will find