The slogan used by Jaguar for its large sporting saloons from the 1950’s onwards “Grace Space Pace” was never more appropriately applied than to the pinnacle of the final generation of Jaguar’s large powerful traditional saloons the Jaguar XJ X350 range, the Jaguar XJR.
The Jaguar XJR comes with a 4.2 litre supercharged V-8 engine developing 400bhp and delivering a 0-60mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds and a maximum speed limited to 155mph. The figures alone don’t convey the drama and sense of occasion when driving this car. The creamy smooth V-8 barely audible when idling and giving off just a whiff of v8 burble turns into an absolute monster when the throttle is floored with the speed rising rapidly and relentlessly as the revs shoot up. A 6 speed super responsive automatic transmission makes sure you are always in the right gear with the option of a standard and more focused sports mode.
The Jaguar XJR comes with a sports suspension package that as always with Jaguar is superbly engineered achieving a unique ride handling balance rarely achieved by other manufactures. The Jaguar corners incredibly well for a large saloon helped by the new multi-link rear suspension and all wheel adaptive air suspension introduced with the x350. Yet, at the same time the ride is smooth and cossetting with great body control dealing brilliantly with road irregularities without crashing or bump thump noise. Helped no doubt by a body shell that is free from distracting squeaks and rattles.
If the regular Jaguar XJR wasn’t stunning enough, this Jaguar XJR is the rare and prized “Portfolio version”, only 100 being produced for the UK market. This Portfolio version is presented in Midnight Metallic Black and rides on unique 20in Callisto alloys. The visual appearance is further enhanced by side power vents, chromed tail pipes and a chromed mesh front grill.
The interior is such a lovely place to be, tastefully fitted with full ivory leather, a sporty aluminium dashboard and centre console and even a power rear window blind. It manages to combine a traditional feel with all the electronic controls and navigation screen required of a modern car. Jaguar do this so well.
Supplied new by Stratstone’s in Birmingham in October 2006 this Jaguar has only had 3 owners and covered 50300 miles with the current owner only reluctantly selling the car after 4 years ownership to thin down his collection and free up funds for other non-car projects.
The Jaguar has just come out of storage and has received a full service and fresh MOT, following an extensive inspection and check over. More importantly given the power available, it has also been fitted with a new set of Jaguar specification Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres which make a huge difference to the road holding.
During its life the Jaguar has been well cared for with full Jaguar dealer and specialist service history. The mileage is fully verified by MOT and service history records.
| Date | Mileage | Garage | Comments |
| 16-Oct-06 | First Registration | ||
| 26-Oct-06 | 20 | Stratstone – Birmingham | Delivery |
| 3-Oct-07 | 7523 | Stratstone – Birmingham | First Service |
| 15-Dec-08 | 16003 | Stratstone – Birmingham | Year 2 Service |
| 15-Dec-09 | 23164 | No Stamp | Year 3 Service |
| 15-Dec-10 | 31946 | Stratstone – Birmingham | Year 4 Service |
| 31-Aug-11 | 36786 | Stratstone – Birmingham | Year 5 Service |
| 3-Sep-12 | 39515 | Stratstone – Birmingham | Year 6 Service |
| 13-Sep-13 | 43148 | Perry Garage – Birmingham | Year 7 Service |
| 18-Sep-15 | 46024 | Perry Garage – Birmingham | Year 8 Service |
| 6-Jul-18 | 49958 | Jaguar Park Royal – London | Minor Service |
| 22-Nov-22 | 50249 | Forest Motors Bordon | Annual Service |
The ivory leather looks stunning with barely any sign of use and all systems and controls function as they should. The Midnight black paintwork really stuns being refreshingly free from swirls and paint imperfections. The unmarked alloy wheels complete the appearance of a very good looking car.
So, there you have it – Grace Space Pace – and potentially one for the collector given the “Portfolio” specification, low owners and miles. Or a brilliant high performance saloon to be driven and enjoyed. Road trips to Europe beckon!!
Stunning value
Year : 2006
Price : £19995
