I'd been on the lookout for another XJ40 since my '88 died, and have come across a 1994 Vanden Plas locally.
My understanding was that the VDP meant just an upgraded interior on the 40s and the Series XJs, but that it replaced the Sovereign for the 94 model year in North America anyway.
So my question is, would a VDP have a full set of options over and above what an XJ6 of the same year would have? I am thinking specifically of a posi/LSD. Or is it still merely a set of fancier seats?

 

Hi Tim,

Some of our '94 owners will have to confirm, but I don't believe a '94 VDP will have an LSD or "Powr-Lok" diff in Dana/Spicer/Jaguar terminology. Our '93 VDP has a standard open diff.

Off the top of my head, the differences in the VDP compared to the Sovereign or Base models are mostly cosmetic: softer, higher-grade Autolux leather, more real leather in the interior, including on the door trim panels, arm rests and center console lid; contrasting piping on the seats; possibly higher-grade wood veneers; fluted Daimler style grille and trunk finisher; and different factory wheels.

The Sovereign and VDP may have slightly better audio systems compared to the Base, and may have a slightly more advanced HVAC system, but I can't recall for certain. The VDP seats may have a different leather pattern and may have a little more electrical adjustment functionality such as an adjustable lumbar bladder and powered headrests, and the front seats may be heated. Our VDP also has sun screens in the backlight/rear window.

The late '94s (from VIN 696460) have revised cast iron rear suspension wisbones as used on the X300, but as far as I know, there are no mechanical differences between a VDP, Sovereign or Base.

Hopefully others will correct any errors or omissions in the above.

Cheers,

Don

 

Don has pretty much nailed it and nope Canadian 94 VDP's didn't have an LSD (at least mine doesn't and it's got everything)

Larry

 

Well that is comprehensive! thankyou.

So did any XJ40s have an LSD?

Used to be top of the range meant some mechanical bonuses like high compression engines etc. Not that Im complaining about better seats, etc. and I do like the look of the Daimler-type grill.

I'm fairly certain I'll buy the car so will post some pics afterwards

 

The answer is yes, but I think it was only on certain models and in certain markets, none of which I can recall!


We'll look forward to the photos, Tim!!!

Cheers,

Don

 

I don't know the what or why but I have a base 94 and it has a LSD. I thought it was standard on all the cars but I guess not.

 

It was standard on all V12's

Cheers

Steve

 

Bought a rear set up off a '94 XJ12 (with 65K miles) just for the LSD. Putting in a '90 VDP that has an open diff. Guy helped me load it up, best $275 part I've gotten for the car

 

I wonder if that's true for XJ81's. I checked out a 1995 X300 XJ12 with high hopes but it had a standard diff.

I parted out a late 1994 and it had the LSD - talk about a pleasant surprise!

 

Apparently Jaguar felt that traction control (standard issue on USA X300 V12s) negated the need for the LSD.

Interestingly, though, the X300 "XJR" has both TC and LSD as standard issue....surely because of the more performance-oriented marketing and intended use

Cheers
DD

 

For those who want to check their car or a donor car; look for this sticker. The significance is the black X for Power-Lok, the colors designate the gear ratio (3.58 in this case).