1985 Jaguar XJ6 Sovereign Series III

An exceptionally elegant example of Jaguar’s celebrated Series III luxury saloon, presented in metallic gold with a tan leather and walnut interior. The metallic gold paintwork presents to an excellent overall standard and retains a deep, attractive gloss. The colour suits the formal appearance of the Sovereign particularly well, changing subtly with the available light and contrasting effectively with the bright chrome trim and tan leather cabin. The finish appears consistent across the main panels, and the restoration has resulted in a very smart overall appearance. We did not identify any major defects during our visit, although minor age-related marks or small imperfections may become apparent upon close inspection. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint. The Series III body remains one of Jaguar’s most successful saloon-car designs, combining a low bonnet, slender pillars and flowing flanks with exceptionally balanced proportions. This example has previously undergone a body restoration. Accompanying photographs show the exterior trim removed and the body prepared during the refinishing process, providing useful supporting evidence of the work completed. The panels appear straight across the car, with consistent-looking shut lines around the doors, bonnet and boot. We did not notice any significant dents or obvious areas of bodywork damage during our visit. The bonnet, doors and boot operated as expected, while the distinctive low nose, four round headlamps and gently tapering rear bodywork all present particularly well. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves. The dashboard combines traditional walnut veneer with clear analogue instrumentation and a logically arranged centre console. Large speedometer and rev-counter dials sit directly ahead of the driver, accompanied by smaller gauges monitoring the engine and fuel systems. The odometer indicated approximately 94,317 miles during our visit. The walnut veneer presents very attractively and provides a rich contrast against the darker upper dashboard and tan lower trim. The centre console retains its period radio, climate controls, clock and original-style switchgear. The Series III XJ6 offers a style of motoring that remains difficult to reproduce in a modern car. The driving position is relaxed, with a clear view across the long bonnet and all of the main controls falling easily to hand. The tan leather, walnut dashboard and slender pillars create a distinctive sense of occasion before the engine is even started. Once underway, the 4.2-litre straight-six delivers its power smoothly and quietly. The three-speed automatic gearbox complements the engine particularly well, changing gear without disrupting the car’s unhurried character. The independent suspension provides the comfortable ride expected from a Jaguar while keeping the car settled and composed. No unwanted suspension noises were noticed during our drive. The steering feels reassuring and the recently maintained braking system provides confident stopping performance. John describes the Sovereign as a great car with no known problems, and its behaviour during our visit reflected the care and mechanical attention it has received. The chrome and brightwork form an important part of the Series III’s appearance and present well across the radiator grille, window surrounds, door mirrors and exterior fittings. The four round headlamps, rear light units and indicator lenses appear clear and free from obvious damage. The Jaguar bonnet mascot, grille badge and Sovereign 4.2 badging are also present and complement the car’s formal appearance. The exterior glass appears clear overall, while the window surrounds and associated seals look presentable for the age of the vehicle. Black-and-chrome bumpers complete the exterior and retain the more traditional appearance associated with the later Series III cars. Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself. The Jaguar is fitted with a set of silver 'pepper pot' alloy wheels with Jaguar-branded centre caps. The wheels present very well overall, with no significant damage immediately apparent during our visit. There may naturally be occasional light marks consistent with use, so prospective buyers should examine the detailed photographs carefully. The tyres appear to retain a suitable level of tread. Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old. The front and rear seats are upholstered in tan leather and present very well for their age. The broad front seats retain their shape and provide the comfort expected from a Sovereign. Some gentle creasing and light wear can be seen around the areas of regular contact, but this is consistent with careful use and gives the leather a pleasingly established character. The rear bench also presents attractively, providing generous accommodation and retaining its original-style pleating and centre armrest. Matching door cards continue the tan colour scheme throughout the cabin, while darker carpeting provides a practical contrast. The carpets and surrounding trim appear well kept, showing only ordinary signs of age and use. Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself. The Sovereign is powered by Jaguar’s fuel-injected 4,235cc XK straight-six engine. John reports that the engine has never required rebuilding and has instead been preserved through regular servicing and attentive maintenance. It started readily during our visit and settled into a smooth idle, producing the refined mechanical note expected from the long-serving XK unit. On the road, the engine delivered its power progressively and without fuss. No specific running problems or unwanted mechanical noises were reported by John. The engine bay presents honestly, retaining much of its original appearance. The prominent twin-cam covers, intake system and associated components are all clearly visible, with light age-related patina consistent with a regularly maintained classic. Power is delivered through a three-speed automatic gearbox. The transmission engaged correctly and changed smoothly during our drive, without unwanted noises or obvious hesitation. Please watch the mechanical and on-the-road videos to hear the engine starting and running and to see the Jaguar being driven. The Sovereign is equipped with the electrical features expected from a luxury Jaguar of this period, including electric windows, comprehensive instrumentation, interior lighting and climate controls, the air conditioning was replaced by KWE and is re-gassed. No specific electrical concerns were reported by John. The cabin retains its period radio and centre-console controls, helping preserve its authentic 1980s appearance. The substantial boot remains practical for touring and contains the original-style carpeting and trim associated with the Series III. Important mechanical work has included the replacement of the brake discs and calipers, along with the rear differential. Photographs show the rear suspension and differential assembly removed during the work, providing useful supporting evidence of the attention given to this area. This represents an appealing opportunity to acquire a handsome late Series III Jaguar that combines long-term ownership, elegant presentation, documented restoration work and the wonderfully refined character of the 4.2-litre XK straight-six. We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check. We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming. If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. The Series III XJ uses independent suspension at both ends, contributing greatly to the supple ride and composed handling for which these cars remain highly regarded. John reports that the suspension is in good condition. During our drive, it remained quiet and controlled, with no unwanted knocks, rattles or other concerning noises apparent. The rear suspension and differential assembly have previously received significant attention. Supporting photographs show the rear assembly removed during the work, while John confirms that the differential was replaced. The braking system has also benefited from investment, including replacement discs and calipers. The brakes performed well during our visit, bringing the car to a stop confidently without any obvious pulling or vibration. The power-assisted steering felt smooth and accurate, making the Jaguar easy to place despite its substantial dimensions. Overall, the steering, suspension and brakes contributed to the impression of a well-maintained and mechanically sorted Sovereign. The leather-trimmed Jaguar steering wheel presents well and provides a suitably relaxed driving position. John reports that the steering is excellent, and it felt positive and consistent during our time with the car. The power assistance makes the Sovereign easy to manoeuvre while retaining an appropriate amount of feedback once moving. The automatic gear selector is mounted within the centre console and is surrounded by polished walnut veneer. Its clearly marked gate provides access to the transmission’s drive and lower-gear settings. The selector and surrounding trim present well, while the three-speed automatic gearbox operated smoothly during our drive.