I bought my 87 XJ6 in January, drove it home and around for a little bit, then parked it due to the tires being really bad and the rear u-joint needing to be replaced. Well, I finally got around to finishing the u-joint replacement this past week (it was actually much easier than my those on my Triumphs), had new tires mounted and balanced on a set of original style Kent alloys and drove about 40 miles to a friend's place to store the car until I can get the horn fixed to pass inspection.

First, I was thrilled the difference the wheels made vs the bolt on wire wheels that the car has in my profile pic. The handling was transformed, and no vibration at all. I drove with the windows down and sunroof open (it was about 75 degrees, unheard of in the Austin, TX area this time of year) as the sun set. I drove some back roads, some interstate, some divided highway. The entire drive I couldn't believe how I'd forgotten how nice it was to drive this car.

Other than some sounds that I think are bushings in the front going bad, and a non operable speedometer (GPS and tach for speed) the car performed flawlessly. And I do need to get cruise control working as well as AC. Still, it was an awesome drive. Now I also want an XJC, but I know that is a rare beast in any form.

 

@Mike

I agree. I have just added an 84 VDP to the fleet, and I absolutely love it. We took it car camping a few weekends ago and the conclusion at the end of the weekend from my friends (admittedly non-car enthusiasts) was "Wow, it's actually just like a real car, only it looks cool"

In real terms of comfort and driving feel, I don't know how far we've actually came in 30 years. No debate about safety, emissions, economy and gizmos progressing, but out and out driving feel..... I'm not so sure.

 

Good to hear.

It's a JAG, and you sir are now smitten. Nothing else will now suffice for a mode of transport, trust me.

Those small issues will be simple fixes, maybe time consuming, but equally rewarding.

 

This is my 4th Jag, 1st XJ6. I had 2 E Types in the 90's. Plus a Mk II for a bit. Always loved them and have worked on dozens. It's the perfect combo of modern and retro. I love it. Now to finish the few mechanical things that don't work and then redo the dash and center console, and have the seats touched up.