It was advertised as Hammond’s old car by the dealer, so imagine the scene when he called.

In his line as an automotive journalist and a celebrity host, Richard Hammond has owned several cars in the past. The least tall of the Grand Tour trio has a huge appetite for classic cars, so it’s understandable if the list of cars he’s owned before includes many old ones.

Image: uk.motor1.com

Top Gear presenter and noted motoring journalist James May explained how KWE rebuild the XJS and improve its handling and performance. The Jaguar XJS is a popular car with the Top Gear team who recognise both its visual appeal and performance as one of the great sports tourers.

The car featured is an Arctic blue 5.3 litre V12 first manufactured by Jaguar in 1989 which has covered only 47000 miles since new. The car is still in the process of being re-engineered by KWE and will serve as the company’s K-S demonstrator.