Hi guys,
I'm looking to buy a XJS in the next couple of months and was wondering how much difference there was between model years. I'm looking for a HE pre-facelift car. I know about the distributor change for '89, but are there any other changes I should be aware of? Are newer cars better equipped in some regard? Nicer interior? Stereo? Anything of that nature?

Basically, aside from physical condition of the particular car, is there a good reason to get a particular year or are they all about the same?

Thanks!

 

The later pre facelift HEs had more modern seats, better (Ford sourced) column switchgear, better digitally controlled aircon (Delanaire Mk3 instead of Mk2), Marelli ignition which is quite Ok as long as it is regularly maintained and plugs and HT leads renewed regularly, slightly better loom connectors in places, full flow oil cooling instead of bypass oil cooling.

Other than this the cars are identical. There is no real difference in reliability as long as both are maintained properly and regularly.
Greg

 

By "later" do you mean post '89 or were the changes more gradual?

 

Seems to me the '82 thru '87 were almost identical....the change to Delanair Mk III being the only significant difference. That was late in 1986 calendar year as far as I know.

1988 model year had some minor upgrades: different sill plates, seat heaters, heated windshield squirters, and some other knick knacks that escape my memory at the moment.

1989 model year has the lattice wheels, sports seats, anti lock brakes, and such.

1990-91-92 brought more gee gaws like air bags and alarm system, revised fuel rail (1992 I think), and other minor items

I'm speaking of "USA market" model years here.

Anyhow, I'd say that actual present day condition is much more important than any year-by-year changes. A really well cared for '82 will make you much happier than a neglected 1990....even though the earlier car won't have the upgraded specifications of the later car.

My only somewhat serious concern about '89-later is the anti-lock brakes....which have caused a fair bit of grief to owners.

*Personally* I think the earlier the better based on the notion of 'fewer things to go wrong'....but, still, I wouldn't let a really good later car slip thru my fingers.

Cheers
DD