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Being a newbie, bought my 95XJS2+2 Convertible for $12,000. Have spent roughly $5000 on maintenance, tires etc. I love driving it, had a tear in my eye when I put it up for the winter. Go for it, it’s a fun car.
Howdy gang! First post. I'm a total car nut and am considering diving into the world of XJS ownership. I'm just about to turn 50 years old, so I was a kid/teen when these things were really in their prime and had pictures of them hung on my bedroom wall. I'll give you some background info on what's in my garage now, etc...so that hopefully you can help point me in the right direction.
My wife and I share our two daily drivers. One is a 2014 Prius C. Yeah, I know...but 50+mpg helps pay for nice cars and racing (my other hobby). The other is a BMW 128i 6spd, which I absolutely love. In our garage is my wife's weekend toy, a 996 6spd. It's been her dream car for decades and we just bought it not all that long ago. She's over the moon about it. I love the car too. I won't say it's my dream, but I thoroughly enjoy it. I also just bought a 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT 4spd, because, well, it was another one of those cool cars from childhood that I've never owned. It was cheap and I'll enjoy it. Also have a C4 Corvette automatic. I'm a Corvette guy, I've had several. My wife, who is such a loving enabler, has approved buying one more car. Budget is around $12k. One of the cars on my list is the XJS. I've had a ton of cars over the years, but never an XJS. Absolutely love the classic styling and the presence they have. I don't need outright blazing performance, as I've got outlets for that. Just want a fun car I can enjoy at Cars and Coffee or take the Mrs to coffee with. A few things to note. I don't do work on my own cars. I don't have the time and I'm not a great wrench anyway. I can do basic stuff, and can rebuild and engine "in my mind", but with an actual wrench in my hand I'm not so handy. So most work is farmed out. I do know some trustworthy mechanics, so I'm in good shape there. Give me some input....
I know the 5.3L was a troublesome beast if not meticulously maintained, so I may well steer clear of it. I'm afraid of buying something that is full of deferred maintenance and/or is just a non-stop money pit. Yeah, I know, old British car...but there are varying levels of money pit. How about the inline 6? Strong horse? Easy upkeep? What about a GM transplant? I wouldn't do one myself, but what about buying one already done? What to look for? What are other Achilles heels of the XJS outside of rot? Ask any questions you have that may help you guide me in the right direction.
Thanks!!!!
This is a copy of my 1994 XJS 4.0 in line 6. I think it will be your love if you get one. I can't say enough how happy i am with mine ! Good Luck to you !
Last edited by Roger Simpson; Mar 29, 2022 at 03:35 PM.
One additional question. Is the 6L of the later cars any more reliable, or easier to maintain?
A copy of my 1994 XJS 4.o
This is a carbon copy of my 1994 XJS 4.0 inline 6. I This is a copy of my 1994 XJS 4.0 in line 6. I think it will be your love if you get one. I can't say enough how happy i am with mine ! Good Luck to you !
Last edited by Roger Simpson; Mar 29, 2022 at 03:38 PM.
I have the identical 1994 XJS 4.0 in line 6. I am trying to restore it to look as beautiful as yours. It has good bones but needs some replacement parts and hard work! This is my goal to pass it to my wife when I'm gone!
Last edited by Roger Simpson; May 23, 2023 at 11:45 PM.
Reason: added to description
Hi SKJSS. Welcome to the Forum.
You mentioned you don't do your own work. I use to. But I'm 73 now and don't crawl under the cars anymore. LOL I don't mind working on top, but seldom get on a creeper.
As mentioned above, if you farm out your service work, you want to find a good, independent shop that has at least one mechanic that is familiar with the earlier Jag engines and drive trains. My local experience has been that the Jag dealer is not only double the cost but their mechanics seem younger and more experienced with the later cars. You will likely do yourself a big favor in this regard.
My 96' XJS Celebration 4.0 is an absolute blast to drive, Especially with the top down. After it warms up, at a stop light, you can't even feel the engine running. I'm the second owner now for the last 23 years and still won't let her go. LOL
Good luck on your search. Be patient. The right car will turn up.
I believe your budget is realistic and I wouldn’t be afraid of a 5.3/6.0; look or post on this and the other forum for what you are looking for. Contact any local Jaguar clubs- you will find club and forum members are usually honest about their cars condition.
I worked in domestic new car dealerships and had company cars for 40 years, worked on many hobby cars, and bought/leased many others and of those 100+ cars, my XJ-S is my absolute favorite. Nothing handles and rides better as a daily driver. I believe 100% of perceived reliability issues are related to lack of use, poor repairs, and lack of maintenance.
I hope you find a good one!
Diving In
