Hard to believe that it stayed in production for 21 years.

Here's How The Jaguar XJS Will Bankrupt You Through Maintenance And Repair Costs (msn.com)

 

I could pick at some details but the article is essentially correct. If you're not a DIYer running an XJS requires deep pockets. But, for some perspective, here's a few cost comparisons on special interest cars that I've been involved with; parts and labor

Late model Bentley: $7600 for pads and rotors; $1800 for an oil change
Ferrari 550 Maranello: $5800 fuel pump
Lambo Countach: $15,000 minor tune, overhaul carbs, overhaul master cylinder
Porsche Carrera GT: $984 replace battery

Anyhow, even though prices are rising above the once "dirt cheap" levels, the oldie Jags are a bargain in today's market. If you're a DIYer and make good choices you can end up with a helluva nice hobby/specialty car for relatively small money.

Cheers
DD

 

Was that article even written by a human or was it a bot?
Random and selective. Costs quoted are not that exhorbitant.
I love the link in the article below it:

Here's Why The Jaguar XJS Is One Of The Most Affordable V12-Engined Cars On The Used Market

Which states: 'Car enthusiasts looking for something unique that won't break the bank will love the Jaguar XJS'

 

I broadly agree with Doug's statement, but when you get to a car that's between 26-47 years old, you have to assume that a certain degree of self-maintenance is absolutely the norm. And quoting the last-known Jaguar price of a part that hasn't been available for 20 years is misleading as it means that a cheap used part is the only option anyway.

I also don't know where they got their maintenance prices from for that article. For example, "Brake Light Switch Replacement" is apparently $648 - $948. How can that be? Even the high price of a switch from Jaguar is only £139. And the official workshop instruction is "Disconnect electrical connectors from lucars on switch. Remove switch securing bolt. Remove threaded keep plate and switch." It's a 2-minute job. $50 max even at a Jaguar main dealer.

Fortunately, no-one using this forum will pay any attention to that article in deciding whether to own and run an XJS!

Paul

 

As a buddy of mine (and fellow classic car enthusiast) likes to say, "the car's purchase price is just the cost of entry".

Over the 18 months I've owned my '95 XJS convertible I've spent nearly its purchase price again on parts, labor, accessories, etc. Would be a lot more if it wasn't for this forum and its generous members sharing DIY information. I also learned (the hard way) on my previous Jags what not to do...

Having the right tools is a big help. As is having an excellent local mechanic. And good insurance (Hagerty has been amazing) is a must.

Bottom line is I have a beautiful, reliable, safe, fun to drive vehicle that provides great pleasure and pride. Can't put a $ amount on that!

The fact that is also worth more than I have in it is a bonus...

 

100% agree, me too! And a far, far bzttze car to do a journey in that anything modern, IMO.

 

I do understand how expensive car repair and maintenance is. Any antique/classic exotic car will cost you a ton if you are paying someone else to care for it. I used to be a professional mechanic so I have an advantage but I have spent very little on my car. I own an 1983 V12 coupe with 61000 miles, almost completely rust free, that has cost me a total investment of about $5000-$5500 US. It is unlikely I would get a V12 Ferrari, BMW, or anything else for that money. Heck, that won't buy a good Camaro or Mustang. I think the XJ-S is a huge bargain.

 

There are lots of mistakes in the article, just about every paragraph as a factual inaccuracy. That said most classic car are expensive to own. As the Owner of a late V12 XJS convertible that has been drop dead reliable and a Porsche 928 there is NO CAMPARISON. The 928 always needs more things and the costs are very high. This is a hit piece, the author wouldn't dare write such a story about a Porsche which are far less reliable and more expensive to maintain than an XJS.

Few things need to be considered which were not mentioned in the article. First the Later car 92+ are extremely reliable and reasonable to maintain. For the Enthusiast a Chevy conversion of the early cars provides a custom and very involving GT experience. Should one have the wherewithal to endeavor in such a direction the XJS suspension provides a very capable platform to build upon. This should have been mentioned as its often done.