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!!!!

 

One additional question. Is the 6L of the later cars any more reliable, or easier to maintain?

 

Do you have a preference between coupes and convertibles? V12 convertibles may take some hunting if that's what you're after. The facelift cars are galvanized, so they're more rust resistant, but they're not rust proof. Especially at this age. The six is a good strong engine from what I understand and easier to work on. Mostly because there's less stuff in the engine bay. Both engines are very sturdy and well designed. They'll outlast all of us if well maintained. Jaguar had serious quality issues throughout the '70s but they got steadily better as the '80s progressed. At this point the truly bad cars are gone. The rest of the XJ-S' reputation came from poor maintenance practices. They depreciated faster than used laptops, but need to be maintained to a higher standard than cheap used cars often are maintained to. With the V12 the cooling system is crucial. I would advise going through the whole thing when you buy a car and replacing most of it. Then you can have a more worry free experience. Grant has a good write up stickyed to the top of the board about what a newly purchased XJ-S may need. They're not hard to work on, a bit cramped sometimes maybe. But it will quickly get expensive to make a poor car good. Not even restoration levels, just catching up on deferred maintenance will set you back a bit if you're not doing it yourself. I think you'll be able to get a good car for $12k. Just remember, as with all classic cars, the purchase price is more of a down payment.

You've already got a C4 Corvette, I'd skip the V8 swapped cars. Since they were all swapped by some guys somewhere, its much harder to know what you're getting in for. It could be done well, it could be done badly. Hard to say.

 

My two cents, there's some nice coupes around for like $5-6 if you look and are patient, then take the XJS Post Purchase Worksheet that Grant Francis wrote up and hand it (https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...embers-235554/), a copy of Kirby Palm's *Experience in a Book* (found here: https://www.nettally.com/palmk/jaguar.html), and a copy of all the appropriate manuals to the mechanic of your choice. I got mine with like 125k miles on the clock for $3200, but then I killed the transmission and am now dropping a bunch of money swapping it to a manual. I think you could definitely get into a really nice XJS for under 12, including catching up on deferred maintenance.

That being said, I've got a couple leads on good condition XJSs in the Eastern US, there's a really pretty '87 Coupe for a shockingly good price out in North Jersey that I'm almost drooling over -- red paint, black and walnut interior, 41k miles and probably doesn't need a whole lot done to it beyond what's on the worksheet I linked, and maybe a new torque converter because the stock one in the GM TH400 will deform and fail above 5500-6000RPM, leading to transmission failure. Ask me how I know.

 

My preference for a good solid cruiser is a late '95 or '96 with the 4.0L AJ16 engine and 4 spd trans. The drivetrain is very dependable and relatively easy to work on. Where are you located? If you're in the US you should find a good car within your 12K budget. Have you looked at Bring a Trailer? XJS's have been popping up on there pretty regularly. Here's what's aactive now: https://bringatrailer.com/jaguar/xjs/. Nothing I'd recommend bidding on at this time but keep an eye out and you'll find a good one.

 

Buy a "facelift" 4.0L!
Living with a 92/93 4.0L convertible for more than a decade, now with 225K+ miles, I maintain your best bet is a "facelift" model. One thing you can go to the bank on is 92-on 6cyl cars were improved to the point of being "daily drivers". Sure, they have quirks as all cars do. They also have the advantage of good parts support. Sources from specialty company like Barrett and Moss to your local chain autoparts stores with a surprising good source on Ebay.
One thing not discussed much is that segment of the model run is PRE-OBD2. That's a bit of a double-edge sword. The car has less computer-controlled elements, meaning the mechanicals are easier to deal with and resolve. Also, in most states, they are exempt from emissions testing (and in AZ they don't even have a way to test the gas cap!). The other sword edge is you can't "scan" the car, having to rely on understanding to FFcodes that pop-up when key is in the "on" position displayed on the clock.
Now, to the elephant in the room...price to buy, cost to drive. The XJS model Jag is riding both the wave of appreciation and current market forces. You CAN NOT find a "good" one for under $10K and 4.0 Coupes are even harder because of limited build production. I stay on top of national sales and have recent sticker-shock for cars listing above $25K that are really clean and low miles. My car, though a concours 1st place winner this year, is not pristine. It's a high-mileage driver. I cannot except its current market value of $10K+, but there it is. Yes, early V12 cars, both coupe and convertibles, can be found for +/-$5K. They are priced at that point for a reason. Can you say Money Pit? Just compare the posts on this forum between early V12 cars and "facelift" 4.0L cars. Devotees of the V12's are fixing, not driving, most commonly. Just note the commonality of V8-swaps in V12s.
Years involvement with local Jag club (JCCA) has only solidified my opinions expressed herein.

 

Thanks so much for all the responses. I'll have to update my profile, sorry it was so empty. I live in the suburbs of Atlanta, GA. The more I'm reading the more I'm finding that it seems even the 5.3 isn't a terrible car, as long as it was properly cared for (especially the cooling system, got it). I'm sure a lot of the very poorly maintained ones are now off the road, since they're now 30 +/- years old. I've also seen plenty of XJS selling for the $5000-$7500 range. I've been around the block a few times, so I know to stay away from those. I'm thinking I can be "all in" with a good driver...I don't want a show car, so I can live with a few cosmetic flaws...for $9k-$12k. So I need to check the cooling system on the 5.3L. What about the 4.0L? What should be checked? I realize overall inspection is important, but I mean is there anything specific to focus in on? What about the 6.0L? Was it significantly better than the 5.3L as far as reliability and maintenance? Coupe vs 'vert is a tough choice, I think they're both great. I already have a 'vert and would be concerned about more stuff to break, but the 'vert lines are a bit more classic IMO. Frankly I could go either way.

My only prior Jag experience is when I owned a '67 E-Type 2+2. It had been fitted with Mustang GT running gear and ghost flames on the hood. That was about 20 years ago. Hopefully I can get back into it and have some fun in an XJS.

 

BTW, I did see the ones on BaT. None really suit my taste. I'm certainly open to a GM conversion, but that 502ci one is too over the top for me. I'd want the body lines to stay stock.

 

One thing that was not covered by previous replies is finding a mechanic that has specific Jaguar experience.
I spent over $15 K in the few years I had my 94, 6,0 coupe, and that was with a super experienced mechanic.
Even he couldn't figure out what was going on with my car and I had to let it go, because it broke my wallet.
I was even working at a shop that specialized in Jaguars and they were at a loss.
The other thing is even the 'galvanized' panels on the newer cars will rust, unless it's garaged.

 

As the owner of an early facelift 5.3, I'd say don't be afraid of them. The facelift engine, even the 5.3 (vs. the later facelift 6.0) is much cleaner than the pre-facelift, in terms of extraneous hoses and wires and whatnots, and access is pretty good to many areas, especially if you remove the aircleaner boxes. For example, it does away with the disaster-waiting-to-happen of short, perishable hoses from the fuel pipes to the injectors, a common failure item on older cars. The infamous Marelli failure is a possibility, but shouldn't put you off. It may be exaggerated, according to one specialist site I've read. I had something similar happen when a coil failed, and the loss of power is not subtle--you'll be hard-pressed to ignore it, thus stopping the car before disaster strikes. And I gather if you have no cats anyway, it's not going to set them on fire. The six-litre uses external air intakes, bringing in cold air from outside, rather than trumpets inside the engine bay. Although as, when moving at speed, enough outside air gets rammed into the engine bay anyway, I don't think it's really that different, and the longer, fatter hoses just add clutter.

In terms of reliability, my 5.3 has been a rock. It's other things that have caused issues, a number of them, but never the engine itself. (About 2/3 of the issues are age-related, replacement of things that fail or are about to fail from age.) Fuel economy? It can do over 20 mpg (US) when cruising smoothly at legal speeds, but around town it can drop into single figures. The engine is smooth as butter strained through silk, and whisper-quiet. If you see the XJS as a refined long-distance cruiser, a classic GT car, the V12 is the engine to go for. I opted for the V12 because an XJS is a silly car to buy if you're being practical, so why not go the whole hog? Life's short--drive a V12. Parts for both engines are generally easy enough to come buy. I wouldn't hesitate to jump into my car and drive hundreds of km. It's also a semi-daily driver, used for commuting to work when I need to, and when (unlike now) the roads aren't covered in snow.

However, as has been pointed out, stay on top of cooling. If you do end up with a six litre, one suggestion I've seen is to remove the plate over the vee, which serves no mechanical purpose and merely helps trap hot air right where you don't want it trapped. Cooling on the facelifts is, I think (this is speculation), easier than the pre-facelifts, partially as there's less guff under there so that the incoming air can help blow hot air away, and I also think that the higher bonnet (that power bulge developed for the straight six) adds more room as well. Again, speculation.

 

This alone pretty much eliminates a V12 as a candidate. There are darn few mechanics with the know-how, patience, or willingness to learn about the V12. Even if you find the right guy your wallet will empty in a hurry just catching up on the usual neglected services. For a DIY hobbyist a V12 is a great choice, though. I love 'em

The 6 cylinder models are less of a problem in this regard but, still, you gotta find a Jag guy.

Cheers
DD

 

A V12 isn't the right car for everyone, I agree.

It's a great car for the right kind of owner. I use mine as a daily driver !

Cheers
DD

 

I know this can happen with any car. Heck, I'm aware my wife's 996 can be a money pit. I just want to do everything I can to avoid what happened here. I hear mixed things about the 5.3L, so maybe that'll go toward the bottom of my list. Does the 4L have a weak spot? Is the 6L a huge upgrade over the 5.3L? I read the post about removing the decorative cover to keep it cool. What else?

I presume things like electronics are always in need of some sort of attention, given their age and the reputation Brits have for this stuff.

 

I'm not an XJS owner (but I've owned a Jag for some years), but I have read your posts with interest.
I have gathered that you have a budget of around $12k, with which you hope to buy a basically trouble free XJS.

I'm thinking this is a contradiction on terms at best.

Even the best cared-for XJS, (or indeed Any Jaguar you might be able to get for $12k) is unlikely to be trouble free no matter the engine.
These cars are no longer new, and even the best cared for will suffer to some extent from Age related deterioration which will require care, some of it expensive care. If the owner has maintained it well, that person will want good money for that car, quite a lot more than $12k.

I'm sure that if I'm wrong, others with more experience in these matters than I have will jump in and correct me which I don't mind, but I'm thinking your price point is a bit unrealistic for what you *Really* want.

Just sayin'....
(';')

 

I believe that if you do not look after the car yourself, NO XJS is right for you.

 

I’m new to the XJS myself. Purchased a 96 vert 4.0 last year with 46k miles on eBay sight unseen for $11.5. I also just turned 50 so must be a thing. Wasn’t sure I was ahem “mature” enough for an XJS but then again at this age I am ok in giving less f***ks what anyone else thinks so I jumped in and am so glad I did.

This is my favorite car I’ve ever owned or driven. Sold my 81 911SC for the Jag and although it was fun for weekend blasts it was not so much as a daily, which my XJS has become because it’s just so damn good. You should read my post “First 1000 Miles Impressions” or whatever I called it.

I spent a little money. New tires. New rotors, brakes, lines, AC, and fixing a neglect issue with the idle which was no big deal. In fact there aren’t any big deals I’ve encountered and mostly just getting it road ready as previous owner did not drive enough. Now she purrs like a kitten and wouldn’t hesitate to drive cross country.

Find a Jag guy and you’ll be fine. Mine even laughed at me and said I was smart to avoid the V12. I personally recommend a convertible since as a second or third car you should have a toy and nothing beats a roadster for B-road drives. What’s the point really? Life is short put down the power top and forget the world as you breathe in fresh air and sunshine while enjoying the best handling and driving car I know of.

The 4.0 is plenty adequate for this car. It’s not a sports car. The in-line 6 of any make is arguably the best engine ever made by any manufacturer no matter who makes it. They are inherently smooth as silk, quiet, efficient and bulletproof. Close to a worry free Jag you can get. I daily mine now since owning it, all seasons no issue. I do leave mine in Sport setting for better throttle response and on B-roads put it in 3rd gear and leave it. Plenty of power and really finds it’s legs around 3000rpm.

1996 was a while ago so these cars are so simple compared to modern cars and yes you will actually be able to work on it yourself as I do. Under hood is refreshingly simple and accessible.

As a new Jag owner I went in eyes wide open but honestly you will LOVE DRIVING this car which to me is the only thing that matters. So precious few cars were EVER designed and engineered from ground up to be a true Driver’s car but this one was and it has all the classic British charm with just the right amount of modern conveniences and luxury to make it enjoyable on a daily basis. Not many of those cars on the planet from any make.

Buy it. Love it.

 

Hmm...seems you're taking my line of questioning to the extreme, don't ya' think? I like to believe (hope??? LOL) I have a pretty decent knowledge base on cars. I also know enough to know that the extent of my XJS knowledge isn't strong enough to go and buy one without doing more research. You wouldn't recommend I buy a 30+ year old Jaguar based on what color the paint is, would you? Or how shiny it is? No doubt, I'm not going to find an XJS with a 10 year bumper to bumper warranty for $5000. Yet, from my initial research, it seemed roughly $12k would land me a "solid" XJS...in relative terms. I'm not looking for a concourse car. In fact, I'd prefer one of "driver" quality...sound mechanically (again, relative terms) but maybe not cosmetically flawless. So before I buy, I'd like to learn more about the different engines. What their known weak points are, what to expect presuming regular maintenance, etc.... I think that would be rather prudent, don't you? I've learned that the V12s really need to be kept cool. I'm also trying to learn...again in relative terms...if the 6L had better reliability than the 5.3. Or if the 4L was better than either. What things specifically to look out for, etc...

After all, I opened my first post by saying I own a 996. It's over two decades old. If you're not familiar with IMS failure, do a quick Google search. Bring yourself a bucket of popcorn though. Even better, do a Google search for the term "Fiero reliability". You may well break the internet...

Just sayin' (',')

 

Thank you, my friend! Yeah, maybe turning 50 is the key. Like you said, I don't give two s**ts about image or anything else. Just want something that makes me happy.

My wife LOVES her 996. It' actually a cabrio, so we've got the convertible part covered. I also wholeheartedly agree with you on the I6 configuration. My 128i has it, and it's superb. I'm leaning in that direction for Jag, but don't want to rule out the V12 until I have enough info.

Happy motoring!!!

 

Wonderfully well said!

 

I've just got back from the beach (It's a British thing to walk on freezing cold beaches on New Years Day!) I and took my 4 litre convertible. A glorious run out and it reinforced for me a few things about buying and running an XJS, UNLESS you want a project car AND you're very handy at both bodywork and mechanicals:

- Buy the best car that you can find, in terms of both structural condition and mechanical maintenance.
- Nowadays (at least in the UK) there are no cheap XJSs. You either pay good money for a good car, or you buy a cheap car and then pay even more money to make it as good as the better car that you could have bought in the first place.
- If you want a turnkey car that you can use any day without worry of it not starting, then buy an AJ16-engined 4 litre (April 1994 - April 1996). The V12s are fabulous engines, but a late 4 litre is mechanically a more modern engine design, smooth, relatively powerful and super-reliable. Even if some parts of the cooling and fuel system are still original, they will be up to 20 years younger than some of the original V12 examples.
- Buy a convertible. It's not just about personal preference (and Yes, I'm biased!). Whatever limitations you may feel about the on-limit performance and handling of the car (let's be honest, it's at least 25 years old!), they are forgotten when you've got the roof down on a bright cold day, heater turned up, sunglasses on, Transmission in Sport mode, and some tunes playing. (That's exactly what I've been doing today!) And, cynically, the reality is that a late convertible XJSs will always hold its value and appreciate a lot more than a similar late Coupe.

A very Happy New Year & Good luck in your search SKJSS. If by your own admission, you don't want, or can't, work on the car, buy a very good car, not a superficially good car.

Cheers

Paul