1988 Jaguar Sovereign Saloon

Description

One of the most anticipated new car cars of the 1980s was Jaguar's long awaited replacement for the XJ series. Known within Jaguar circles by the internal codename XJ40, the new model finally broke cover in October 1986 after more than a decade of design and development. Jaguar worked hard to preserve the best qualities of the original XJ, including the class-leading ride, whilst updating and improving on many other areas, with big increases to interior and boot space particularly noteworthy. The new model's styling was evolutionary rather than revolutionary and instantly recognisable as part of the Jaguar family, while the cabin was beautifully finished, blending traditional wood veneer and leather with all the luxury features one might expect to find in a prestige sedan of the era. Retaining the familiar XJ6 moniker, the new model was powered by an entirely new range of AJ6 engines featuring twin-overhead camshafts, four valves-per-cylinder and electronic fuel injection, to simultaneously raise power and provide better fuel economy. Buyers could choose between a Getrag five-speed manual gearbox or the optional ZF automatic transmission (with a distinctive J-gate lever providing the driver with a degree of manual control). Initially launched in 2.9 or 3.6 form, both engines received praise for their refinement and smoothness. With the XJ40 models yet to move into classic territory, now is certainly a great time to buy one these cars - with robust mechanicals and plenty of spares and specialists in Australia to look after them, the XJ40 is luxury motoring at a very affordable price.