Just look at it, several metres of Series 3 Jaguar XJ, and then some. A rarity when new, this Ladbroke Avon Limited conversion of Jaguar’s XJ must now be bordering on extinction.

A quick Google informed me that somewhere around 20 examples were built, ever. It was an effort in coachbuilding that won the company a gold medal at the 1980 Birmingham Motor Show, no less.

According to a great page over at xjconvertible.com, a site dedicated to the fabulous Jaguar XJC convertible, which itself predated the XJ estate. The Labroke Avon Limited commanded an additional £5,500 over a standard Series 3 XJ. The quality of the conversion was often praised, something that was reflected in Jaguar’s choice to honour its warranty on these cars.

Looking a little worse for wear, this light blue, 6-cylinder example appears to be only hours from rescue and is currently commanding £3,500 through its eBay listing.

Well, at least it was, as before I could finish writing this article the eBay auction page refreshed itself and presented a message saying the item was no longer available for sale. I can only assume that someone offered a price the owner couldn’t resist.

Let’s hope he or she brings this ungainly big cat back to its former glory.