Hello everyone,

As I mentioned in a previous post I am new to this forum and new to the idea of being a XJS owner. In the last week I have tried to absorb as much information as I could so that when I go to look at a prospective car I will be somewhat knowledgeable. In doing so I am getting a little twisted around with some of the vehicle terms. Maybe some one can set me straight.
I am focusing in on a 1987-88 vehicle. Preferably a convertible. It would be great to get a Hess & Eisenhardt model. I am a little skeptical about a car that has been chopped and probably not properly engineered and the possibility of sag when the structural integrity is comprised.
Aside from that. I have seen photos of these 1987-88 convertibles where they show rear seats and some where they do not have these seats. What is the name difference between those to models? Is it a coupe, is it a cabriolet, or is the vehicles with the rear seats, a chopped up version?
The marquee plates on the rear fender indicated different styles. What are the differences and why are they named differently. To a novice they seem to represent the same style.
For instance:
1. V12 or HE ....... (in the 87-88 model years) Isn't a V12 a High Efficiency engine?
2. XJS or XJSC ..... what does the C represent?

Sorry for being long winded. Thanks in advance for any help.
Jim

 

I can't remember which models did/did not have the rear seat but someone will chime in, no doubt.

The "HE" badge was dropped, yes, and replaced with a "V12" badge. After a few years (the HE engine being introduced in 1981) I guess Jaguar decided the engine was no longer novel enough to merit special identification.

XJSC- the "C" is "Cabriolet"

As for the H&E cars I don't think "sag" was ever a problem, and they were a high quality conversion....but am no authority on H&E specifics. Others here know quite a bit about them and will come along soon.

Cheers
DD

 

Thanks Doug,
I would not be concerned about the H&E conversion. I have noticed 87s that are not H&E conversions and I was wondering how those held up to sag.
Jim

 

Hard to say what the quality/engineering is like on the cars converted by various small operations of the period. I reckon some were OK and others were hack jobs. Personally, I'd just steer clear of them.

Cheers
DD

 

Thanks Doug,
I was wondering the same thing regarding staying away from them.

 

I'd recommend tracking down a copy of this book.

Check out eBay auction 350690020147

I have this book and it does a great job going through the production history of the cars. It explains what each of the special editions are, etc.

Maybe you can find it at a library?

 

Thanks Vee,
That sounds like something I will need to get.
Jim

 

If you have your heart set on a non-H&E convertible, it doesn't take long to look at it to decide if it was done well or not. My 83 was done by an unknown company (can't find any tags anywhere) and the structual reinforcements are hidden well and quite strong. I've taken it over some very rough roads without so much as a squeak or a rattle, even after 30 years!

Sure I wish it was an H&E, that would make getting replacement parts for the top easier, but I'm happy with it.

 

Good Morning Jamey,

Actually I am looking for a 1987-1990 V12 convertible. I am just doing my due diligence as best I can to be as knowledgeable as possible. If I had my choice I would prefer the H&E 87-88, but not a bid deal if I can get an 89-90. Ok the car that started me on the search is not very far from you in NH, near Keene. If it is still available I might head down there the first part of next week. I very too much happening until then. The car is listed by owner as an 87 but the 10th VIN number is a K, suggesting it is a 89. I am told that it had an accident sometime in its life to the left front. Red flag for me, but not necessarily a game ender. Also I was told it is running rough until it gets on the open highway. I guess after reading what I have been reading the major concern would be the overheating issue. Also, I am told that it is in good shape regarding rust. We shall see. My email is JimmyCVT@yahoo.com
Thanks for the help that you and everyone has provided me.
Jim

 

I work in Keene at one of my jobs, so that shouldn't be a big deal.
I have to admit, from what you've just told me I see red flags too. I guess price is where it will make the biggest impact. I'm a bit concerned that the seller doesn't know the correct year...seems odd!