Category: Jaguar (Page 3 of 4)

ON THE BLOCK: Silverstone Classic Sale Expands to Two-Day Auction

June 26, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

For the first time this year’s award-winning Silverstone Classic (25-27 July 2014) will include an expanded two-day auction as one of the massive extravaganza’s major attractions.

Organised by Silverstone Auctions the enlarged Silverstone Classic Sale (26-27 July) will include a number of exciting lots that are sure to attract both collectors and enthusiasts.

Latest addition to the lots coming under the hammer is the eclectic ‘Molino’ private collection. It includes 14 classic cars and six motorcycles, spanning nearly 90 years of automotive history.

The collection, the first such to be consigned by Silverstone Auctions, is currently owned by well-known and highly successful Midland’s motor industry character, Mike Hewitt. Since retiring in 2011, he has spent his time acquiring and fully restoring a wide variety of cars and motorcycles that are now offered for sale at Silverstone circuit. It contains rare models from marques such as Fiat, Porsche, Jaguar and MG.

Topping the bill in the collection is a rare 1940 Alvis 12/70 Competition, estimated at between £100,000 and £120,000. This Alvis was raced in national hill climbs and international races from 2007 by the much-respected late Robin Everall.

Commenting on the collection, Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “We’re very proud to be offering this, our first ever private collection, for auction and to play a part in the cars’ histories. What’s even better is that the cars appeal to such a variety of tastes.”

Another incredibly rare British sports car to be offered in Silverstone Auctions’ two-day sale is – fittingly – a 1950 Healey Silverstone, one of just 105 ever built.

The dual-purpose car was hand built at the Donald Healey Motor Company factory in Warwick and was designed to be equally at home on the road or racetrack. Powered by a 104 horsepower 2.5 litre Riley engine and mated to a four speed manual gearbox, the car proved highly competitive in a number of events, including a class win in the 1949 Alpine Rally driven by Healey himself. It has an estimated value at between £160,000 and £180,000.

“The auction is an integral element in the growing success of the Silverstone Classic,” said Event Director, Nick Wigley. “The event is growing bigger and bigger every year and the enlarged two-day sale at this summer’s Classic mirrors that expansion. Moreover with lots such as the Healey Silverstone and wonderful Molino collection coming under the hammer, the auction has some real quality on offer.”

Further information about the Silverstone Classic Sale can be found on the www.silverstoneauctions.comwebsite. For the latest news and ticket details on2014 Silverstone Classic, visit the officialwww.silverstoneclassic.com website.

ON THE HILL: Jaguar F-Type R Coupé and XFR-S Shooting Brake to Debut at Goodwood

June 20, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(Whitley, Coventry – 20 June 2014). Long-term supporter of the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed, Jaguar, will be making some noise at next week’s event from 26-29 June with an exceptional line-up of its cars, both old and new.

Visitors to the Jaguar stand at the spectacular automotive show will be delighted to see the first new product from Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations – the new division of Jaguar Land Rover responsible for a range of special product and service programmes for Jaguar and Land Rover customers.

Chiming perfectly with Goodwood’s 2014 Festival theme of ‘Addicting to Winning’, Jaguar will have an extensive selection of its past, present and near-future models at the event, including victorious examples of the racing D-type, XJS TWR and XJR-9 tackling the famous 1.16-mile hillclimb.

Two of the Jaguar Heritage Trust’s significant D-types will be in action as this legendary Jaguar marks its 60^thanniversary. The original 1954 D-type prototype will be demonstrated, as will the later 1956 ‘Long Nose’ model, to be driven by ex-Grand Prix racer Bruno Senna. Bruno recently covered over 1,000 miles in this car at the 2014 Mille Miglia, with co-driver and fellow Formula 1 star, Martin Brundle.

Other Jaguar Heritage competition racers in action at Goodwood will include the iconic ‘Group 44’ E-type, the Group-A XJS TWR and the 1988 Le Mans-winning XJR-9 LM, the latter being reunited with one of its victorious team drivers; Andy Wallace.

Away from the competition cars, examples of Jaguar’s new production F-TYPE R Coupé and XFR-S Sportbrake will be publically seen in action at the Festival, with both set for high speed drives up the famous Goodwood Hill.

ON THE BLOCK: What to Watch Russo and Steele Newport Beach

June 18, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Lot 8041 – 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302
Thursday June 19 2014 6:26-6:46 pm
moto+match estimate: $95,000

Garaged from new, this original 1970 Boss 302 is a rust-free, unrestored survivor with 64,000 original miles. It is the only example with its special-order Bright Blue Metallic paint code. The consignor acquired it from the original owner’s nephew to become only the third owner. The exterior, interior, engine, and transmission are all original and remain very good. The Boss is complete with original documents including sales and service records from selling dealer Bob Wonders Ford in Alhambra, California.

Lot 8137 – 1965 Chrysler Imperial Crown Convertible
Friday June 20, 2014 2:44-3:04 pm
moto+match estimate: $45,000

This Imperial’s distinctive body is finished in the most attractive black color, and the odometer reads less than 65,000 miles. Well preserved and garaged, the Imperial is powered by an excellent running 413 cubic inch V-8. It delivers a whisper-quiet and smooth ride and features a clean engine compartment. With fast-growing collector appreciation, this rare Imperial Crown Convertible is a must-own premium classic vehicle.

Lot 8219 – 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 Guerney
Friday, June 20 2014 2:53-3:13 pm
moto+match estimate: $35,000

This is an extremely hard to find 1967 Cougar Dan Gurney Special. Only 15,166 of these were built and here is your chance to one at No Reserve. This car has all the right options. The engine is the 289-4V engine and has the beautiful Lime Frost paint (color code I) and also comes with the black standard bucket seats in perfect condition. The transmission is the C-4 Select shift Merc-O-Matic which shifts perfectly. The previous owner has owned it for about 15 years, and it looks to have had an older restoration, we think 10+ years ago. However, the car is in extremely good condition. This is the Dan Gurney Special which was available for this year. This includes the engine dress-up kit and the Dan Gurney sticker on the rear passenger window. The car comes with the Marti Report that shows the car’s VIN number and trim numbers decoded so you know exactly what you are getting. This is a great find and it will look great in any collection.

Lot 8128 – 1972 Alfa Romeo Montreal
Saturday, June 21 2014 4:56-5:16 pm
moto+match estimate: $65,000

The 1972 Alfa Romeo was purchased from the original owner in 2013 from the president of the Alfa Romeo Club in Tuscany, Garage del Tempo. The name of the original owner is Nino Delogu. He purchased the car new in 1972. The car was purchased from Nino Delogu by Franco Manetti, the second owner, in 2013. The car was imported to the United States in 2014. The car has a clear California title. The original color of the car is white. It was repainted the original white color in 2002. The blue interior of the car is in excellent condition, the dash is very clean and all of the gauges work. The current original mileage is 55,000 km. The factory V-8 Alfa Romeo engine sounds like a new car. The car is designed by Bertone. This exotic car is a great investment.

Lot 8033 – 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad
Saturday, June 21 2014 5:56-6:16
moto+match estimate: $80,000

This Flint, Michigan-built ’57 Nomad wagon was acquired by the consignor from a gentleman in Idaho during 2005 and retained the original drivetrain. It was given a frame-off restoration to original specifications, including the color scheme, as photo-documented. During the process, the vehicle was dipped and stripped down to the bare metal, all of which was restored with over 680 hours in body and paint alone with no filler used. All of the stainless-steel trim is original, with all dents removed and polished to a chrome-like finish, and the glass is all new. The 283 ‘Power Pack’ small-block V-8 breathes through dual exhaust. This Nomad has been honored with many awards. Covered and stored in a garage, it is only brought out for shows. Since completion of the restoration in 2008, the car has just over 600 miles of use.

Lot 8072 – 1961 Lotus 20/22 Formula Junior
Saturday, June 21 2014 6:02-6:22 pm
moto+match estimate: $45,000

The Monterey Historics and other high-profile events. Peter Denty, a noted restorer of vintage racing cars, restored it in the UK during the winter of 1985 for then-owner Chris Ball, who had relocated to Canada at the and brought the car to North America with him, which he drove to the North American Formula Junior championship in 1986. The Lotus was eventually acquired by Don Denhard, who raced the car at many vintage-racing events, and then sold it circa 2003 to the consignor, who had the car restored from the frame up. The restoration included frame straightening and the rebuilding of the brakes, hydraulics, and steering, plus installation of all new rod ends, front A-arms, and rear radius rods. Steve Jennings overhauled a new Richardson 1,097 cc Ford-Cosworth engine, which is topped by a rebuilt air intake and cold-air box for the twin Weber carburetors matching the unit on the Lotus 22 depicted in William Taylor’s The Lotus Book. A new fuel cell resides inside the original fuel tank. Other new items include the Varley battery, Koni steel shocks, exhaust system, correct vintage-size Dunlop tires, and many other important detail items. Converted in period to Type 22 specification with “layover” engine configuration and all proper detail items, this Lotus 20/22 is an excellent “no excuses” example, offered complete with its FIA Historical Technical Passport issued May 26, 2009 and racing logbook, plus correspondence. A potent and historic single-seat racing car, this Lotus 20/22 marks the most successful “pre-monocoque” racing-car design of the early 1960s.

Lot 8071 – 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6
Saturday 6:20-6:40 pm
moto+match estimate: $120,000

The original owner of this magnificent Cortez Silver LS6 Chevelle 2-door hardtop was not shy about checking option boxes, as it was equipped with some rare features. In addition to the behemoth big-block 454 LS6 with the highest 450-horsepower rating features include an M-22 “Rock Crusher” 4-speed manual transmission. Cowl Induction, functional hood lock pins, plus hood and deck stripes were part of the LS6 package as well. To complete the beefy drive-train, a 12-bolt rear axle, Chevy’s strongest, is equipped with a 3.73:1 ratio. Optional power front disc brakes, power steering, and tilt wheel were other factory options. Inside, black vinyl Strato-Bucket front seats flank the floor console. The dash is fully equipped with factory tach and gauges, along with a factory-installed AM/FM radio. This SS454 is also one of very few equipped with the rare rear-window defogger option. A full body-off restoration was completed less than 400 miles ago, and this legendary musclecar car awaits the opportunity to give a hard run to match the 0-60 mph in 6 seconds and 13-second quarter mile times written in the magazine tests. With only 4,475 LS6-equipped SS454s ever produced, this highly desirable example, with matching numbers authenticated by an independent source (a copy of the report will be available for review on-site), is equally ready for “go” and “show.”

Lot 8244 – 1963 Jaguar E-Type Roadster
Saturday, June 21 2014 7:46-8:06
moto+match estimate: $200,000

The E-Type was expertly restored by Classic Vision Restoration in Burbank, California. To those few classic-car enthusiasts not familiar with their work, Classic Vision is responsible for two Pebble Beach Best of Show restorations, plus six Pebble Beach Best in Class awards and many more top concours-winning restorations. Striking in Opalescent Gunmetal Grey over Red, this exceptional ‘Series I’ E-Type is offered complete with an original service manual and its corresponding Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate of Authenticity.

Lot 8284 – 1968 Porsche 911S Sunroof Coupe
Saturday, June 21 2014 8:06-8:26 pm
moto+match estimate: $200,000

Finished in Polo Red and factory-equipped with a sunroof, this short-wheelbase, first-generation 1968 Porsche 911 S features the highly desirable 2.0-liter, Weber-carbureted flat-six engine, five-speed manual transaxle, and 1968-specific features including 5.5-inch wide Fuchs wheels and elephant-grained upholstery. This particular example was sold new in Hanover, Germany and moved later in its life to sunny Southern California, where it has remained ever since. A complete “nut-and-bolt” restoration was completed to Pebble Beach standards by a very reputable early-911 specialist in 2012-2013 with only 1,500 miles driven by its owner since the restoration was completed, meaning the car is just broken in! Of course, this highly optioned 911 S retains its matching numbers engine and gearbox, as confirmed by both the accompanying Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and Porsche factory build sheet/Kardex. The concours-quality restoration has been fully documented and the file accompanying the car also contains a CD-ROM with hundreds of pictures of the restoration process. The original owner’s manual also accompanies the sale of this outstanding and historic 911 S. Incredibly rare in the USA today and featuring many 1968-only features, this factory sunroof-equipped, short-wheelbase 911 S simply “ticks all the boxes” for an astute early 911 purchase in the top factory-available specification of the era. As such, it will surely take pride of place in the finest collections of the world’s most important sporting machines ever conceived.

Lot 8118 – 1958 Mercedes-Benz 190SL
Saturday, June 21 2014 8:29-8:49 pm
moto+match estimate: $230,000

Continuing to benefit from an older complete restoration to factory specifications and handsomely presented throughout, this 1958 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL Roadster is particularly engaging with its distinctive Strawberry Red finish complemented by a striking Beige-trimmed cockpit. It was imported to the USA from Luxembourg during the mid-1970s and acquired by a long-term owner in 1987, under whom the restoration was completed in the 1990s by Pebble Beach regular Lon Kruger of Sun Valley Classics. Complete with registration, title, service, and restoration records, this 190 SL marks an ideal choice as a fast-rising and highly collectible classic roadster delivering iconic style, ease of maintenance and operation, and undeniable European panache.

IN DESIGN: Jaguar Partners with Team Sky and Pinarello to Engineer Tour de France Racing Bike

May 29, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(Gaydon, May 28, 2014) Jaguar has deepened its partnership with Team Sky, one of the world’s leading professional road cycling teams, and built a new relationship with Pinarello, the highly regarded Italian bike manufacturer, by helping them develop the team’s latest race bike.

The car maker, renowned for some of the world’s finest luxury saloons and sports cars, has used its advanced aerodynamic knowledge and facilities to help in the creation of the new Pinarello Dogma F8 bicycle, to be raced by Team Sky during the remainder of the 2014 season.

This is the first time Jaguar’s comprehensive technical capability has been used by the team, and marks the beginning of a new collaborative relationship between Jaguar, Team Sky and its family of partners and suppliers, including legendary frame manufacturer Pinarello. Jaguar is now an official ‘innovation partner’ with Team Sky.

The Dogma F8’s first race will be the Critérium du Dauphiné, which starts on June 8. Its major test this year will be on the Tour de France, which starts in Leeds on July 5. Team Sky and Chris Froome are the defending champions. Team Sky also won in 2012, with Sir Bradley Wiggins. Sir Dave Brailsford, Team Principal of Team Sky, fresh from overseeing Sir Wiggins’ victory in the Tour of California, says access to Jaguar Land Rover’s technical resources would help Team Sky to be even more competitive in future. Jaguar’s role was to help give Pinarello’s top-end bicycle frame even better aerodynamic performance. Working to fixed ‘hard points’ – such as wheelbase and geometry determined by Pinarello’s designers – Jaguar’s engineers developed the frame to improve the aerodynamics of the tube profiles, and reduced the drag of components mounted to the frame. More than 300 CFD ‘virtual’ runs were done between October and January, using the same methods to optimise the aerodynamics of new Jaguar Land Rover road cars. The drag of every single component was measured, and single modifications could be analysed and compared. Wind tunnel work was then used to verify the CFD tests.

Aero-led changes include aerofoil-shaped tubing optimised within UCI regulations, and a new aero seat post. The Dogma F8’s front forks have been developed to minimise drag and ensure seamless airflow on to the down tube. The rear derailleur wire/cable exits the frame at the back of the drop out, again to reduce turbulence. Three holes on the seat tube allow for a lower position for a second drink bottle, to further reduce drag.

In certain areas, Jaguar accentuated the famous asymmetric design of the Dogma 65.1 to improve aerodynamic performance. The seat mono stay around the rear brake is now asymmetric to guide airflow cleanly around the brake calliper, while using the minimal amount of material. The upper section of the rear chain stay is also heavily asymmetric.

The wind tunnel tests show the new Dogma F8 is 26.1 per cent more aerodynamic (complete bike) than the outgoing Dogma 65.1 and 6.4 per cent more aerodynamic including a rider. The frame set alone is 40% more aerodynamic ally efficient. Pinarello’s priorities, for the new Dogma F8, were to maintain handling, reduce weight, and improve the stiffness and aerodynamics. Handling had to be at least as good as the acclaimed Dogma 65.1. Weight should be reduced (it was – by just over nine per cent) and stiffness further improved (achieved partly thanks to an even better grade of Torayca T11001K carbon fibre from supplier Toray). Aerodynamics had the potential for significant improvement.

Pinarello CEO Fausto Pinarello insisted the new Dogma F8 must have the legendary Pinarello DNA including the best possible performance. He is confident the new Dogma F8, flagship of the Pinarello range, is the fastest frame Pinarello has ever designed.

The difference was obvious when I first rode the Dogma F8. It is obviously lighter and feels more rigid, so that all the power from your legs is transferred to the road without any flex or movement. This is a bike on which I know I can win another Tour de France. I am going to be doing everything possible to make that happen. – Chris Froome, 2013 Tour de France Champion

IN THE NEWS: The Lightweight E-Type is Reborn

May 15, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(MAHWAH, N.J.) – May 14, 2014 – Jaguar is to build six perfect reproductions of the original, race-bred Lightweight E-type that was created in 1963. The new cars are the ‘missing’ six vehicles from the brand’s Lightweight E-type project, which originally started in February 1963 with the objective of building 18 ‘Special GT E-type Cars.’

Only 12 of the aluminum bodied Lightweight E-type vehicles were eventually built, the last in 1964, the remaining six designated chassis numbers having lain dormant, until now.

The new cars will be hand-built in-house by Jaguar’s finest craftsmen. Each car will be constructed to the exact specifications of their original 1960s forebears – including the 3.8-litre straight-six engine.

The Lightweight carried approximately 114kg (250lb) less weight than a standard E-type, thanks to its all-aluminum body and engine block, a lack of interior trim and exterior chrome work and a host of further weight-saving features including lightweight, hand-operated side windows.

Jaguar expects a high demand for the six Lightweight E-types. Established Jaguar collectors, especially those with historic race car interests, will be prioritised amongst those potential customers who express interest.

JENNY ON THE BLOCK: Stars’ Cars Under Hammer at Silverstone

May 14, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

A pair of classic British sports cars, owned by two of Hollywood’s biggest stars, are set to go under the hammer in Silverstone Auctions’ May Sale, on May 24^th at Silverstone race circuit.

First up is an ex-Jennifer Lopez 1998 Aston Martin DB7 Volante that is rumoured to have been bought as a gift by Ben Affleck for his former fiancée.

The limited edition Alfred Dunhill example, chassis number 002 of the 150 model run, is estimated at between £30,000 and £35,000. The car has covered fewer than 15,000 miles and is fantastic condition.

Clearly J-Lo and Affleck were customers of great taste and the car is finished in a special order Dunhill Silver paint with black leather interior. It’s easy to imagine J-Lo cruising the blocks of LA in the Aston and catching the eyes of the paparazzi.

Joining the Aston is a stunning 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster that was once owned by Hollywood tough guy Gerard Butler. The stunning example is estimated at between £55,000 and £65,000.

Owned by Butler for a number of years he is quoted as saying, “I went to the classic car place in Chelsea to look at something else, walked in there, and there was an old E-Type Jaguar convertible, the V12 one…I literally took one look at it, and thought, oh, my, god.”

Finished in black with a black interior this E-Type was subject to significant work in 1993 which included a full engine overhaul and complete respray.

Commenting on the sale of the cars, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “These wonderful cars join a long list of celebrity owned classics that we have offered in our auctions over the years. Not only do they have the gravitas of being driven by two Hollywood hot shots, but are great examples of the models in their own right.”

The cars form part of the 65 car and motorcycle catalogue offered at Silverstone along with a collection of automobilia and luxury lifestyle goods.

For more information about the cars and the many other lots being offered at Silverstone Auctions’ May Sale, visit www.silverstoneauctions.com.

IN THE NEWS: Jay Leno, Brian Johnson, Others Join Jaguar at 2014 Mille Miglia

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

(Whitley, Coventry – 28/04/2014). Jaguar Heritage Racing will be tackling the legendary Mille Miglia classic car endurance event from 15-18 May with a line-up of top-name drivers, which will be traversed over 1,000 gruelling miles from Brescia-Rome-Brescia in ten of the most revered and sought-after historic Jaguar cars ever produced.

Household names from stage and screen, plus fashion, motor sport and music celebrities will campaign their assigned historic Jaguars through Northern and Central Italy for four tough but memorable days of hard driving. Spectators enthusiastically lining the Mille Miglia route will get to see examples of historically-significant Jaguar XKs, C-types and D-types shooting past them with famous faces in the cockpits.

Leading American TV chat show host, Jaguar collector and classic car enthusiast – Jay Leno – will drive the famous ex-Sir James Scott-Douglas 1951 Jaguar XK 120 roadster, raced as part of the Ecurie Ecosse team in period.

Another well-known 1951 XK 120 roadster – the ex-Duncan Hamilton racer registered LXF 731 – will be shared by husband and wife team, Elliot and Erin Gleave. Elliot is better known as successful British musician Example, with his wife Erin being the Australian TV presenter that he first met when she interviewed him for MTV.

Other significant Jaguar XK models on the Mille Miglia will include the ex-Jim Swift racing XK120 roadster, which will be driven by multiple award-winning British actor Jeremy Irons. Multi-million album selling Scottish singer and songwriter Amy Macdonald will take the wheel of an XK140 once owned by successful British racing driver David Hobbs.

Jaguar Vehicle Integrity Chief Engineer Mike Cross will drive the well-known ex-Stirling Moss Monthlery record-breaking XK120 Coupé, which carries the registration LWK 707. Author David Blakeley and model-turned-TV presenter Jodie Kidd will share a stunning example of the Jaguar XK120, which was driven by Oscar-winning actor Daniel-Day Lewis in the 2013 event.

Jaguar Heritage Racing is also entering three famous C-type racing cars, to be driven by celebrities as diverse as Belgian singer-songwriter Milow (Jonathan Vandenbroeck) – who will drive with Jaguar Land Rover Regional Director for Europe Bernard Kuhnt, and legendary AC/DC lead singer and car afficionado Brian Johnson. Ex-Jaguar Le Mans 24 Hours race winner Andy Wallace will drive the Jaguar C-type which won the 1952 Reims Grand Prix with Formula 1 legend Sir Stirling Moss at the wheel.

Two motor racing greats – ex-Jaguar Le Mans and World Sports Prototype Championship winner, Formula 1 driver and SKY F1 TV pundit Martin Brundle, plus ex-Formula 1 racer Bruno Senna – will share the famous ‘Long Nose’ Jaguar D-type, the penultimate example built, registered 393 RW, as this legendary Jaguar model celebrates its 60^th anniversary in 2014.

A number of new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupés will support the Jaguar Heritage Racing team, following the full Mille Miglia route through Italy with broadcast crews and VIP guests.

The drivers making up the Jaguar Heritage Racing team will be tweeting live throughout the event, which was famously once proclaimed as: ‘The most beautiful race in the world’. Twitter profiles to watch for the latest personal updates on the event include:

Jaguar Heritage Racing Driver	Twitter profile name
Jay Leno	@LenosGarage
Martin Brundle	@MBrundleF1
Bruno Senna	@BSenna
Jodie Kidd	@RealJodieKidd
David Blakeley	@daveblakeley
Amy Macdonald	@Amy__Macdonald
Milow	@milow
Elliot Gleave (Example)	@example
Erin Gleave	@Erin_McNaught
Brian Johnson	@BrianJohnson

In addition Jaguar will be publishing live updates from 14-18 May at: www.facebook.com/Jaguar andwww.twitter.com/jaguar

PICK OF THE DAY: Superb 29,000-Mile Jaguar XJ12C

April 28, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

There’s a saying in the hobby, “You have to be a good sport, to own a sports car” and while not a sports car, the Jaguar XJ Coupés, produced between 1975 and 1978 can certainly be case-in-point. The build quality left much to be desired (doors patched together to create a longer coupé door, for example), the 5.3 litre V12 was anemic and inefficient, the pre-GM transmission might as well have been made from pudding. And yet… it was—and is—so alluring. With less than 2,000 cars made over its four-year run, it wasn’t a car one would see every day. It was handsomely appointed with burled walnut and Connoly leather. And that shape: one of the most well-proportioned, seductive, classic designs in automotive history. Altogether, it evoked personal luxury in a way that few cars have been able to, or at least not on middle-class wages. Thirty-some years later, the XJ12C remains exclusive as they don’t often come on the market. Furthermore, the problems that were inherent in them to begin with only exacerbate over time: engines and transmissions may have been swapped for a GM 350/Turbo Hydramatic drivetrain; rust has built up in the undercarriage, wheel arches, doors or beneath the vinyl roofs (standard on XJ12Cs); and electronics have gone haywire. This gorgeous example, with less than 29,000 miles on the clock, simply hasn’t had enough use for those issues to arise and with continued excellent care, there’s a good bet that they may not in the future. Being a Northwest car, there appears to be no rust with an excellent finish and no bubbling beneath the roof. Interior is fresh, original and meticulously clean. The motor and drivetrain will probably need careful monitoring from its sparse use, and it is after all an old Jag. But then, you have to be a good sport… Find it here on Craigslist in Sherwood OR—for about half a comparable Rolls-Royce Corniche—at $24,000.

PICK OF THE DAY: Proper Jaguar XJ6 Series III

March 15, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Perhaps one of the greatest testaments to any marque, any nameplate, is how long the car which represents it remains more or less unchanged; the Jeep C/Y/JK and Porsche 911, for example. Among sedan/saloon cars, the one that stands out is the Jaguar XJ. Since its introduction in 1968 to its modern day replacement (bearing the same name) in 2010, the XJ maintained its basic shape and much of the same characteristics as it did when it debuted. Timeless. To many, its zenith came in the Series III of the early- to mid-80s. With its Pininfarina styling queues, Bosch fuel injection and refinements like a sunroof as well as cruise control, the Series III became the quintessential Jag saloon. Despite the more sporting predecessors like the 3.8 MK2 or the more powerful Supercharged version that came after—not to mention the completely advanced new XJ—this is the car, along with the E Type, that comes to mind with the mention of a “Jag;” not unlike the 308 GTB/S will, for many years to come, be what comes to mind when mentioning “Ferrari,” despite the legacy before it or the major advances after. With that in mind, it would be very hard to come by a better representation of what a Jaguar saloon should be than the car presented today. Yes, it is a late-model Series III, but on top of that it is the crème-de-la-crème Vanden Plas, with its Connolly leather, tasteful brightwork, exotic wood trim and rear headrests. On top of that, it has less than 34,000 miles. All original and only one owner to boot. It looks to be amazingly well kept and especially nice in its Alpine green finish, which has held up very well. Find it here on Craigslist in Asheville NC for a relatively reasonable $8,500.

IN THE NEWS: Jaguar to Unveil XFR-S Sportbrake at Geneva

February 25, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Jaguar’s 2015 Model Year XF range will be unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show 2014. From real-world efficiency to Autobahn-storming performance, Jaguar’s 2015 model year XF range caters to every sensibility, without compromising on the luxury, refinement and versatility expected of a Jaguar. The XFR-S Sportbrake is the first high-performance R-S branded sports estate car to be produced by Jaguar, with 550PS on tap and 1675 litres of rear load space.

The XFR-S Sportbrake’s 5.0-litre supercharged V8 delivers 550PS and 680Nm of torque and will sprint from zero to 60mph in 4.6 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds) with an electronically limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h). An eight-speed transmission with ‘Quickshift’ functionality enables optimal acceleration throughout the speed and rev ranges. The XFR-S Saloon’s chassis has been specifically retuned for the XFR-S Sportbrake. Active electronic differential and Dynamic Stability Control systems from the XFR-S Saloon enhance the XFR-S Sportbrake’s handling characteristics. Aerodynamic changes reduce lift compared to the standard Sportbrake and give the XFR-S Sportbrake an assertive appearance. 20-inch ‘Varuna’ forged alloy wheels – the same as those fitted to the XFR-S Saloon – are shod with bespoke tyres to maximise grip.

XFR-S Sportbrake customers can choose from an exterior palette comprising five colours: Ultra Blue, Ultimate Black, Stratus Grey, Polaris White and Italian Racing Red. This colour palette is complemented inside the XFR-S Sportbrake with Warm Charcoal leather trim on the seats and doors enhanced through the use of carbon effect leather. Exclusive to R-S cars, this is used on the seat bolsters and arm rests and reflects the use of exotic carbon fibre on the aerodynamic elements of the car. The seats themselves are embossed with the R-S logo and can be finished with a choice of contrast colour micro-piping and stitching in either red, blue or ivory. The same subtle enhancement runs across the top of the dashboard, the fascia of which is finished in a Dark Aluminium unique to the R-S, complete with badging.

The new XFR-S Sportbrake will priced at £82,495 in UK, with US pricing and availability to be determined.

XFR-S Sportbrake Technical specification*

	XFR-S SPORTBRAKE
Engine	5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
Capacity (cc)	5000
Bore/Stroke (mm)	92.5/93
Peak Power (PS@rpm)	550@6500
Peak Power (kW@rpm)	405@6500
Peak Torque (lb/ft @rpm)	502@2500-5500
Peak Torque (Nm@rpm)	680@2500-5500
Transmission	Eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic
0-60mph (secs)	4.6
0-100km/h (secs)	4.8
Top Speed (mph \| km/h)	186 \| 300 (electronically limited)
Combined Economy (EU mpg \| l/100km)	22.2 \| 12.7
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)	297

*Manufacturer’s figures