I did 96,000 glorious miles in my 1990 V12 Coupe. It was my daily driver, and never let me down. I wish I had never sold it but that's what you did back then. I had it serviced at Marshall of Cambridge and did everything the service book said. Mine was well built, and solid as a rock, and I had the optional stiffer suspension. HE's had a 12.5/1 compression ratio up from 9/1 mine was a later model 11/1. I got 16mpg average ranging from 9mpg around town to 23mpg on a run. Lot's of luggage space and space for small children in the back, although adults could squeeze in for short journey's. Fabulous, and not extravagant compared to a 7.2L Interceptor or Aston V8 or 928S or Maserati Khamsin all competitors during its life.
The looks have really grown on me over the years. The piece that Harry's garage did on touring down in France gave an insight into how much fun these cars can be.
These are gorgeous and unecessary errr no. Maybe nowadays but if you can afford to fuel it this is one of the most refined GTs you can get. Perfect for dashing down to Monaco or Nice. It is not as good looking as an original E Type but much better than the bloated Series 3. Would love a 3.6 manual.
We owned five XJS coupe daily drivers in the nineties and naughties, V12, two 3.6’s and two AJ16’s. Loved every one of them though I think the AJ16 4.0 is the one to go for, an absolutely superb engine without the expense and potential problems of the V12 but with almost the same bhp. I think it’s one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Supremely smooth and comfortable, an effortless cruiser with drop dead gorgeous looks. Corrosion is the killer for these cars nowadays.
Growing up this was my dream car. Bought one as soon as I could afford one, it was a 3.6 and ten years old and I absolutely loved it! Moved abroad and had to sell it, but watching this has made me want another one!
I was eighteen when I first drove my boss's V12 XJS. He threw the keys at me and told me to bring it around to the front of the office for him. I literally sprinted out of the office, through the park, along the road and into the NCP car park where it was.. a gleaming black XJS. I had never even sat in a car as expensive as that, let alone been given the keys to it. I'd never driven an automatic.. I remember turning the ignition and, thinking the engine hadn't caught, turned it again only for the starter to grind.. the engine had fired first time, I just hadn't heard it or felt any body shake as the engine turned over. It took me five minutes to work out how to use the gear selector, another eon to find the 'handbrake' and several jerk and stop tests of the throttle and brake before I felt brave enough to drive it out of the car park. I was a great salesman and once or twice my boss let me take his Jag home on a Saturday from work, on the pretext I'd clean it and return it to his home on the Sunday, knowing I spent all Saturday night driving around with girls and impressing my mates. Beat the hell out of my mate's rusty MkIII Cortina.
You hit the nail on the head why this car is so compelling. It’s so impractical that it’s an enigma. Huge luxury body but also a two door sports car. I freakin love it. Timeless design. When I drive my HE coupe around, everyone asks me what year it is. People guess the year from the 50s to the early 70s. It’s a 1985. Haha. Car is pure class
The XJ-S is what I call a "motorway car" (like the BMW 6 / 8 series or the Porsche 928); it's there to take you from, say, London to Edinburgh and leave you feeling fresh at the end of the journey. I think older designs like this one look better than more recent ones too.
My grandfather has one of theese which he's promised to me my entire life, It is down in Spain and i cant wait to drive it through Europe and home to Norway.
Always loved these, even 30 years later I vividly remember having fun with my Visa GTI against an XR3i down the M62 at night with these headlights gaining on us both rapidly, this XJS when past us like we where stood still, the XR3 driver and me just looked at each other ...we had been totally outclassed!
Good video, but the XJ-S engine even at launch was more than a bit "tickled" compared to the E-Type - it was fuel injected like it was supposed to be from the beginning rather than breathing through very compromised carburettors like the E-Type got. Moreover, the cooling system never really worked properly in the E-Type but was very different in the XJ-S. It was fully intended from inception of the design to move away from Sports Car and be placed squarely in the Luxury Grand Tourer market segment. Comparing it to the E-Type is stupid because the XJ-S was in no way the successor of the E-Type. That's not what Jaguar intended and that's not what they ever marketed it as - it's just what people assumed without ever bothering to inform themselves. The XJ-S HE compression ratio went up, not down, and was around 40% better on fuel overall - a huge improvement. Even today its consumption is comparable to pretty much all other large capacity petrol GT cars. Consumption isn't bad. The tank is huge so range is ok. The problem is when people compared it to their asthmatic 2.0 Granada rather than a Italian, German or other big British GT cars. People are happy to compare the performance but moan when it costs more than a family Ford to run. Later XJ-S models became more and more reliable also. The early Lucas OPUS ignition was crap. The Lucas Constant Energy Ignition introduced with the HE along with Digital P fuel injection was better, and the Lucas CEI ignition was replaced by Magnetti Marelli from 1988.5 (F-reg in the UK) which removed things like vacuum advance etc and their tendency to stick also. Cooling system is perfectly fit for purpose but thick people failing to understand that corrosion inhibitor matters didn't replace the coolant on schedule so the system furs up and the self bleeding small bore tubing above the radiator blocks up. I understand Jaguar used to recommend dumping leak stopper stuff into the system every coolant change which is a terrible idea. The spark plugs aren't that hard to get to but people are cheap/lazy and don't bother with the front two which need the a/c compressor unbolted from its bracket aside (but tubes stay attached). Rear brakes work well and pad changes take minutes but it's best to drop IRS to replace discs and calipers when needed - even that isn't difficult - I've done it. Conclusion - bad reputation because the car was sold cheaper than its real competitors and it was often bought by people trying to look rich who simply didn't maintain them.
Agree with the failure to be informed. The XJS was actually supposed to be derived from the XJ13. Meant to be a mid mounted V12 with trans axle. Think XJ220 in original concept. So why did the XJS we have happen. Company politics:)))). The engine was supposed to be 4 over head cam. Had the true XJS made it to the factory floor. I would not have one today:)))) Oh and Lucas was two year old Bosh designs. Research:))))) Even though Lucas had the license from Bosch to distribute in England. Bosch wanted the market too. Hence the crap connectors. Not Duetz plugs like they should have been. They ( Lucas ) were given older products . Jag was ham strung by the British Leyland board. XJS was made with good old skulduggery:)))). The car we have now was deliberately made so as not to allow the Buick motor to be fitted. Old Land Rover V8. They kept this from the board right up until it was time to manufacture.:)))) Oh what are we going to use for an engine:))) We may have something out the back:))) It old but it may fit:))) Paraphrased from an actual article in a Jaguar forum magazine:))) Would have preferred the try XJ13 derived car. That V12 was 500 Hp back then:)))) Naturally aspirated . Oh for what what might have been.
@@closetmonster5409 I understand the mid-engine XJ-S is just urban legend rather than an accurate reflection of the design process, and the engine bay width thing wasn't about the XJ-S which was simply a rebodied short wheelbase XJ floorpan, but rather applied to the XJ40 Jaguar were designing in the early 1980s to replace the Series III XJ. That's the reason why the Series III XJ12 remained in production alongside the Straight 6 engined XJ40 until 1992 when the XJ81 was released, modifying the XJ40 enough to fit the-then 6 litre V12 in.
Agree, The clue is in the name, its not an F-Type, its an XJ...S. The 'sports' XJ. If you think of it in those terms it makes perfect sense. It'll always be an early pre-HE I want, I love the style and elegance of those early cars, the wood on later ones can look very 'halfords'.
What is often forgotten is that the last V12 E types had to be heavily discounted in order to sell them. The XJS has really improved with age and a good one is a lovely British classic.
Have owned a few of those, and one as a daily driver for few years. Propper maintainance and they are top reiliable. Never had any issues and always a turn key and go. Yes can be thirsty in city trafic but actually pretty good on fuel if out of town.
1700kg that’s a light weight by todays standards almost a mini with a better interior finish and liquid smooth engine performance and divine throttle response. Why would anyone buy a current car which is 4 wheels full of plastic and electronic gadgets.
I own one. I can confirm almost all of this is true. Rear visibility is not a problem. I don't find the buttresses get in the way at all. However you failed to mention the biggest visibility problem which is that the bonnet is so long and you sit so low and far back, you can't see around a lot of 90 degree turns in built up areas. Combine that with the galleon turning circle, the width and the fuel consumption, and you have a car that is seriously horrible to drive in big towns and cities. Just don't even bother. It wants to get onto a nice quiet motorway and head for the Mediterranean. For that, there's nothing that will do. I never tire of driving it when it gets to be in its element. I mean that quite literally, since fatigue just doesn't happen. You get out of it feeling more well rested than when you set off. It's magic. In short, it's a car that is completely hopeless at most things people want a car for, but it was designed for a specific purpose, and it does that perfectly.
I had a 1987 5.3XJS. Reason I bought it was because my late step-dad was a Jaguar test driver and took me out in a number of them as a young teenager, including one which was surrounded by hardboard to keep it secret long before it was released to the press. Sadly ownership wasn't such a happy experience as it suffered terminal rust issues....fast forward to 2021 and look what these cars are selling for now!
The Jaguar XJ-S is one of those cars you can't help but love, no matter how many times the dodgy mechanics and reliability may steer you wrong. It just encapsulates all that is sleek in a modern Grand Tourer! :D
I bought an 85 v12 HE years ago. Added a 5 speed manual and a megasquirt computer to control the engine. The engine was designed to spin to 8330rpm and needs the extra gears to let it sing. It is remarkably quiet cruising a high speeds and handles very well….not in a “twitchy” fashion like the more modern road burners. I always find myself looking back at it when walking away after parking it. Yes…..it got me good !!!!
Your absolutely right. Why isn’t the Jaguar XJS celebrated more? It’s a stunning and beautiful car. The best of British excess. I love the XJS which I why I have a V12 coupe in my garage. Prices are on the climb so grab one now.
I had a convertible. Despite having a sound top and replacing all of the weather stripping and everything else the dealer could think of, it became a four-wheeled bathtub every time it rained. I finally just gave up and sold it.
Hey, it won Australia's greatest race, " the BATHURST 1000" in 1981, I think thats a great achievement for an english car in an environment it's not designed for!
That’s one of the most Doug Demuro-esque titles I’ve seen in a different channel - love it ;) Also my neighbor had the XJS (in gold), when I was young; i admired it so however I recall my father talking about its endless repairs...
The black bootlid tail panel was replaced by body colour in mid 1977 at which point the B pillar trims went from chrome to black. Dreadful quality but a superb car when it was working. Time has been very kind to the styling as well.
With those Lucas bits . ...I agree. I had a Dorchester Grey with an antelope, doeskin interior, with the burr walnut of course. Leaping Jaguar on the bonnet helped you judge the long nose, l also loved those buttresses. I was 21 when l owned mine in '89, it was an '86 model.
The whole point of a car like this is that you buy it with your heart... And what a heart it has. I don't care about what some ageing enthusiasts think of them or why they weren't liked much in period, or the fact that they are so long yet so small inside. That's personality, and all the more reason to love it. I wasn't alive when these were sold & have no historical hangups about them like many seem to. Judging with fresh eyes in 2021, my opinion is the V12 XJS is fantastic.
We had a couple of HEs in the 80's and I loved them. As a mile-eating GT it was just superb; the V12 was turbine smooth and had huge grunt (for the day), the cabin was luxurious, it looked purposeful and graceful, it drank oilfields dry. And I loved it! Quite a scary proposition to buy a 40+ year old one with those electrics which is why they're so cheap. But the classic market will wise-up soon methinks....
I’ve been eyeing a 1990 XJS V12 at 50k miles and I’m head over heels over it. I actually never paid much attention to jaguars especially older models but I saw a XJ6 and I loved the design of it. So I googled the price for a XJ6 when I saw the XJS v12 in red and beige interior with a black convertible top and was like damn!! It’s a sexy looking car
Definately in my top five for looks. Such a unique design. It will never be mistaken for anything else. The market is finally recognizing that they're something special, as prices have started to go up. If you want one I'd get it today because the "drivers" are disappearing. Soon all you'll see are the clapped out cars or the super clean cars. ...and I agree. I like these better than the E-Type.
It makes you smile, launching a V12 in a fuel crisis.🤦♂️ I agree with you pal, I prefer the looks over the E Type.😯 Definitely one for the enthusiast as a weekend car, still an eye catcher all these years on.
About 10 years ago when prices weren't as high as they are now, I was tempted to buy one of these. It was a V12 and everyone said I was off my nut. Granted it was my every day car, I can see the point but I wanted that sense of occasions. A few friends drove bargain level xj6's that had seen better days and I always felt that the XJ-S was more of a head turner and interesting than other cars of that ilk. Regrets, I have a few....and not getting one of these is high up on that list 😂😂
I think this is my all-time favourite car - albeit in pre-HE form. I’ve always loved the looks, the ‘Martini’ image, and the V12! Might also have had something to do with Return Of The Saint, which used a white Pre-HE…………if only I had the cash!
I had a '92 XJS-V12, and had a Tremec 6-speed manual put in to replace the automatic. That, along with European springs and shocks made an entirely different, world-class car out of it. Sorry I ever sold it.
Whoever says xjs isn't a "sports car" or whatever hasn't driven a new or well sorted car. After replacing all perishables (shocks all round, bushes all round inc antiroll bar ones) this car is so planted, reminding me of my old e46 series bmw.
When other guys had posters of Countachs, 308 or 512BB Ferraris, and Porsche 911s on their walls, the car I dreamed of was the V12 XJS. The closest I've gotten so far is my Series 3 XJ6, but one day I will have an XJS in my garage!
I own a 1972 E-Type V12 convertible with stick shift and A/C, which is a rather rare combination. I love the E-Type, driving it and shifting the gears is so much fun, the noise is fantastic with that stainless steel exhaust. I also owned a 1991 XJS V12 convertible, which is a very different car compared with the E-Type, and I also loved it. When I want to feel like Steve McQueen escaping from the police, I drive my E-Type. :) When I wanted to cruise around and arrive relaxedly, I drove my XJS. The XJS has a lot of class and style, hard to match. But... eventually I found another car that also has very much style, class and elegance: and so, since mid-2021 I have been the proud owner of an Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage coupe in Chiltern Green and tan leather interior, with a very rare stick shift. I must say I do prefer the DB7 over the XJS, but I don't think this is a fair comparison. Overall, I am a sucker for British classic cars. No other nation is able to build cars with that much style, class and elegance - neither the Italians, and in particular not the Germans (says a German national), or any other. If I had to come up with two things I love about Britain, I'd say it's their beautiful cars and their great sense of humor! Certainly not their cuisine nor football... LOL
I have had a 3.6, straight 6 with Fuel Injection which gives you all the acceleration you could wish for and 35 miles per gallon, even though you can't buy 100 octane 5 star any more. Tesco's Premium is the highest at 99 Octane or 4 star. I have had this car as my only every day transport for 18 years. There are 15 XJS's like mine left on the road in the UK. as at 2023.
Jag XJS is a car which is very much a mixed bag for me, and I say this as a Jag lover. It has the proportions, the interior and the engine, but somehow I could never warm up to its looks. I'm sure it's a very capable and comfortable long distance cruiser, but it doesn't implore me to make silly financial decisions the way other Jags do effortlessly.
I daily drive a decently modified '89 XJ-S V12 with a Tremec Magnum 6-Speed. As long as you take extremely good care of them, they'll never disappoint. I cannot go anywhere without turning heads and the luscious sound of a moderately unrestricted custom exhaust coupled with a beautiful intake note leaves me with a huge smile on my face every single time. If you are to consider purchasing this car, beware of the many states that it appears. A good handful show up for sale because they are past their prime and are in some state of disrepair. Expect an extreme maintenance catch up and in some instances an overhaul. To hate a car because of it's problems, that were entirely avoidable from previous owners, is ignorant and shameful. You'll also see a lot of these cars with some sort of engine swap SOMETIMES KEEPING THE V12 BADGE >:(, despite my huge distaste for such an unholy act with this car in particular, that really could be a selling point for some owners. It is undeniably easier and thoughtless, but all soul is lost. Let the weight of that rest on you; and if you can handle that, some of us will secretly envy you while also hating you.
I had friends with an HE I drove a few times. Other than the Buick like power steering it was pretty sweet. It covered ground quite rapidly with incredible comfort.
I owned a 82’ not for everyone. Those who love them LOVE them. I originally wanted to do an engine swap with the twin turbo kit with mine. But every time I opened the bonnet I became a purest. I spent WaYYyy too much on a complete engine rebuild. Lucas electronics was eliminated. Manual installed, after ALL that I had ZERO issues as a daily driver and a weekend drive up and down the 101 coast freeway drives in San Diego. Everywhere I went was nothing but complements and questions. Sadly I’m 2007 a wildfire ripped through my county and burnt my home and garage where I parked her
Amazing machines and today can be fettled and even upgraded (all at some cost) to be everything Jaguar intended. A GT of the old school that was all about 60-120 mph transcontinental journeys, now sadly illegal. I recall 30 years ago travelling in one, and it was in a league of its own. Shrank journey times, cosseted the passenger, and pre HE certainly when you wound it up you were reminded by the sound of that V12 how Jaguar’s reputation was built on the track. So low. So stylish. It remains a must have product. Sod the cost!
So underrated, pity Jaguar never launched a hot road version in the style of the wonderful touring car. As a child these were pretty much the only every day exotic unless we went into London and saw Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Lets not forget the Germans didn't launch a V12 until well into the 90s so what else had a V12 other than the Italian exotics? Laughable that it was denied type approval in Germany, how many supercars of the time had rear visibility?
The Car Wizard got a kit for one of these engines that removes the Lucas stuff and replaces with some lovely carbs. Makes it sweet and much more reliable.
Great Video and beautiful car !!! ... I always thought the top speed was 153 mph ???? ... I'm sure this was the claim for the first XJ12 saloon way back in 1970 ??? ... As i remember "Top Gear" tested a gold XJS HE and it peaked at 146 mph ??? . It blew a hose, got patched up and "off it went" !!! ... Ah just a beautiful engineered car !!!
The side repeat indicators to me look like an afterthought and a halfords accessory, they should have used a nicer flush fitted one like ones fitted to german cars
When entering the design & engineering campus of Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn, Michigan, I knew William Clay Ford was in his office if his dark blue XJ-S was parked outside of "Mahogany Row" next to the design dome.
Had 3 over the years. ,still have 87 xjsc ...v12.alot of problems, had 1 with 350 conversion, still the hottest looking car on road....vetts pound salt
Pretty obvious. The original jag Xjs Was built during fuel crisis. A small. Efficient v 6 So , makes sense actually that There would be a larger version , if , they could do it , Due to , the original v6 being underpowered , and it was , supposed to Be a sports car So , to give it more power , add a v 12. That's double the v 6, It will be more powerful And so that model will, Finally live up To what the real sports car purchaser Really wanted But was not possible During the fuel crisis
I did like the looks of the XJS and it was lovely to drive.F-Type excepted there is nothing in todays Jaguars line up worth getting excited over.Sir William Lyons must be looking down with concern......
there is an 88 V12 for sake near me now. The guy died. It's a real beauty but I keep thinking how much the repair bills are going to be and doesn't seem reasonable
Stupid, pointless and wonderful. What a wonderfully accurate description of that car!
I did 96,000 glorious miles in my 1990 V12 Coupe. It was my daily driver, and never let me down. I wish I had never sold it but that's what you did back then. I had it serviced at Marshall of Cambridge and did everything the service book said. Mine was well built, and solid as a rock, and I had the optional stiffer suspension. HE's had a 12.5/1 compression ratio up from 9/1 mine was a later model 11/1. I got 16mpg average ranging from 9mpg around town to 23mpg on a run. Lot's of luggage space and space for small children in the back, although adults could squeeze in for short journey's. Fabulous, and not extravagant compared to a 7.2L Interceptor or Aston V8 or 928S or Maserati Khamsin all competitors during its life.
"Would you mind awfully settling the bill my dear, I just need to go out and warm up the Jaaaaaaaaaag!"
I bought a 1987 example last month. I’m using it as my daily driver. You only live once!
Enjoy it!
Yep
The looks have really grown on me over the years. The piece that Harry's garage did on touring down in France gave an insight into how much fun these cars can be.
These are gorgeous and unecessary errr no. Maybe nowadays but if you can afford to fuel it this is one of the most refined GTs you can get. Perfect for dashing down to Monaco or Nice. It is not as good looking as an original E Type but much better than the bloated Series 3. Would love a 3.6 manual.
Just purchased a 1989 XJ-S, V-12 Coupe. Thank you for your insight and please say a prayer for my sanity and my pocketbook from here on out.
I owned a '92 XJ-S V12 and had the auto transmission replaced with a Tremec 6-speed manual. Absolutely transformative. A wondeful car.
We owned five XJS coupe daily drivers in the nineties and naughties, V12, two 3.6’s and two AJ16’s. Loved every one of them though I think the AJ16 4.0 is the one to go for, an absolutely superb engine without the expense and potential problems of the V12 but with almost the same bhp. I think it’s one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Supremely smooth and comfortable, an effortless cruiser with drop dead gorgeous looks. Corrosion is the killer for these cars nowadays.
Did you own a manual?
@@anthonybaiocchi3028 No, they were all autos.
Growing up this was my dream car. Bought one as soon as I could afford one, it was a 3.6 and ten years old and I absolutely loved it! Moved abroad and had to sell it, but watching this has made me want another one!
Go and get one! You won’t regret it!
@@ClassicsWorldUK You know I just might!
I was eighteen when I first drove my boss's V12 XJS. He threw the keys at me and told me to bring it around to the front of the office for him. I literally sprinted out of the office, through the park, along the road and into the NCP car park where it was.. a gleaming black XJS. I had never even sat in a car as expensive as that, let alone been given the keys to it. I'd never driven an automatic.. I remember turning the ignition and, thinking the engine hadn't caught, turned it again only for the starter to grind.. the engine had fired first time, I just hadn't heard it or felt any body shake as the engine turned over.
It took me five minutes to work out how to use the gear selector, another eon to find the 'handbrake' and several jerk and stop tests of the throttle and brake before I felt brave enough to drive it out of the car park. I was a great salesman and once or twice my boss let me take his Jag home on a Saturday from work, on the pretext I'd clean it and return it to his home on the Sunday, knowing I spent all Saturday night driving around with girls and impressing my mates. Beat the hell out of my mate's rusty MkIII Cortina.
That kind of memory you don’t forget!
You hit the nail on the head why this car is so compelling. It’s so impractical that it’s an enigma. Huge luxury body but also a two door sports car. I freakin love it. Timeless design. When I drive my HE coupe around, everyone asks me what year it is. People guess the year from the 50s to the early 70s. It’s a 1985. Haha. Car is pure class
Enjoy the experience like nothing else!
The XJ-S is what I call a "motorway car" (like the BMW 6 / 8 series or the Porsche 928); it's there to take you from, say, London to Edinburgh and leave you feeling fresh at the end of the journey.
I think older designs like this one look better than more recent ones too.
My grandfather has one of theese which he's promised to me my entire life, It is down in Spain and i cant wait to drive it through Europe and home to Norway.
There was a shooting brake version that sorts out the practicality and visibility aspect and looks really good too
The Lynx Eventer! A stunning car!
I think it's a stunning car, Always liked it's looks.
Hood down it looks so pretty I always thought as long as it makes you smile nothing else matters
You have great taste. M.
@@alanmckeown5377
Anyone interested in joint owning one , contact me. Let's get one.
Another Malcolm Sayer body design classic. Piece of art
I have a "92 XJS coupe. Love it.❤
Always loved these, even 30 years later I vividly remember having fun with my Visa GTI against an XR3i down the M62 at night with these headlights gaining on us both rapidly, this XJS when past us like we where stood still, the XR3 driver and me just looked at each other ...we had been totally outclassed!
Don’t feel bad, an XJ-S still outclasses most cars on the road!
No replacement for displacement?
Good video, but the XJ-S engine even at launch was more than a bit "tickled" compared to the E-Type - it was fuel injected like it was supposed to be from the beginning rather than breathing through very compromised carburettors like the E-Type got. Moreover, the cooling system never really worked properly in the E-Type but was very different in the XJ-S. It was fully intended from inception of the design to move away from Sports Car and be placed squarely in the Luxury Grand Tourer market segment. Comparing it to the E-Type is stupid because the XJ-S was in no way the successor of the E-Type. That's not what Jaguar intended and that's not what they ever marketed it as - it's just what people assumed without ever bothering to inform themselves. The XJ-S HE compression ratio went up, not down, and was around 40% better on fuel overall - a huge improvement. Even today its consumption is comparable to pretty much all other large capacity petrol GT cars. Consumption isn't bad. The tank is huge so range is ok. The problem is when people compared it to their asthmatic 2.0 Granada rather than a Italian, German or other big British GT cars. People are happy to compare the performance but moan when it costs more than a family Ford to run. Later XJ-S models became more and more reliable also. The early Lucas OPUS ignition was crap. The Lucas Constant Energy Ignition introduced with the HE along with Digital P fuel injection was better, and the Lucas CEI ignition was replaced by Magnetti Marelli from 1988.5 (F-reg in the UK) which removed things like vacuum advance etc and their tendency to stick also. Cooling system is perfectly fit for purpose but thick people failing to understand that corrosion inhibitor matters didn't replace the coolant on schedule so the system furs up and the self bleeding small bore tubing above the radiator blocks up. I understand Jaguar used to recommend dumping leak stopper stuff into the system every coolant change which is a terrible idea. The spark plugs aren't that hard to get to but people are cheap/lazy and don't bother with the front two which need the a/c compressor unbolted from its bracket aside (but tubes stay attached). Rear brakes work well and pad changes take minutes but it's best to drop IRS to replace discs and calipers when needed - even that isn't difficult - I've done it. Conclusion - bad reputation because the car was sold cheaper than its real competitors and it was often bought by people trying to look rich who simply didn't maintain them.
Agree with the failure to be informed. The XJS was actually supposed to be derived from the XJ13. Meant to be a mid mounted V12 with trans axle. Think XJ220 in original concept. So why did the XJS we have happen. Company politics:)))). The engine was supposed to be 4 over head cam. Had the true XJS made it to the factory floor. I would not have one today:)))) Oh and Lucas was two year old Bosh designs. Research:))))) Even though Lucas had the license from Bosch to distribute in England. Bosch wanted the market too. Hence the crap connectors. Not Duetz plugs like they should have been. They ( Lucas ) were given older products . Jag was ham strung by the British Leyland board. XJS was made with good old skulduggery:)))). The car we have now was deliberately made so as not to allow the Buick motor to be fitted. Old Land Rover V8. They kept this from the board right up until it was time to manufacture.:)))) Oh what are we going to use for an engine:))) We may have something out the back:))) It old but it may fit:))) Paraphrased from an actual article in a Jaguar forum magazine:))) Would have preferred the try XJ13 derived car. That V12 was 500 Hp back then:)))) Naturally aspirated . Oh for what what might have been.
@@closetmonster5409 I understand the mid-engine XJ-S is just urban legend rather than an accurate reflection of the design process, and the engine bay width thing wasn't about the XJ-S which was simply a rebodied short wheelbase XJ floorpan, but rather applied to the XJ40 Jaguar were designing in the early 1980s to replace the Series III XJ. That's the reason why the Series III XJ12 remained in production alongside the Straight 6 engined XJ40 until 1992 when the XJ81 was released, modifying the XJ40 enough to fit the-then 6 litre V12 in.
Agree, The clue is in the name, its not an F-Type, its an XJ...S. The 'sports' XJ. If you think of it in those terms it makes perfect sense. It'll always be an early pre-HE I want, I love the style and elegance of those early cars, the wood on later ones can look very 'halfords'.
Last model 4.0 litre convertible looks stunning.
Agreed! ❤️
What is often forgotten is that the last V12 E types had to be heavily discounted in order to sell them.
The XJS has really improved with age and a good one is a lovely British classic.
Cars like these are for satisfying a passion which doesn’t always agree with boring practically.
I had an 89 . It was the most wonderfully frustrating car ever. I wish I had it still!
Well done for comparing the xj-s to the LAST e- types 👍🏻
Have owned a few of those, and one as a daily driver for few years. Propper maintainance and they are top reiliable. Never had any issues and always a turn key and go. Yes can be thirsty in city trafic but actually pretty good on fuel if out of town.
I know I'm a bit biased towards Jags, but I've always loved the look of the XJ-S. Flawed maybe, but great nonetheless!
1700kg that’s a light weight by todays standards almost a mini with a better interior finish and liquid smooth engine performance and divine throttle response. Why would anyone buy a current car which is 4 wheels full of plastic and electronic gadgets.
My boss had one with a four head lamp variant, bright red with cream leather, even more drop dead gorgeous than what he hoovered up cruising in it.
I own one. I can confirm almost all of this is true.
Rear visibility is not a problem. I don't find the buttresses get in the way at all. However you failed to mention the biggest visibility problem which is that the bonnet is so long and you sit so low and far back, you can't see around a lot of 90 degree turns in built up areas. Combine that with the galleon turning circle, the width and the fuel consumption, and you have a car that is seriously horrible to drive in big towns and cities. Just don't even bother.
It wants to get onto a nice quiet motorway and head for the Mediterranean. For that, there's nothing that will do. I never tire of driving it when it gets to be in its element. I mean that quite literally, since fatigue just doesn't happen. You get out of it feeling more well rested than when you set off. It's magic.
In short, it's a car that is completely hopeless at most things people want a car for, but it was designed for a specific purpose, and it does that perfectly.
I had a 1987 5.3XJS. Reason I bought it was because my late step-dad was a Jaguar test driver and took me out in a number of them as a young teenager, including one which was surrounded by hardboard to keep it secret long before it was released to the press. Sadly ownership wasn't such a happy experience as it suffered terminal rust issues....fast forward to 2021 and look what these cars are selling for now!
The Jaguar XJ-S is one of those cars you can't help but love, no matter how many times the dodgy mechanics and reliability may steer you wrong. It just encapsulates all that is sleek in a modern Grand Tourer! :D
One of my all time favourites!❤
Us too!
I bought an 85 v12 HE years ago. Added a 5 speed manual and a megasquirt computer to control the engine. The engine was designed to spin to 8330rpm and needs the extra gears to let it sing. It is remarkably quiet cruising a high speeds and handles very well….not in a “twitchy” fashion like the more modern road burners. I always find myself looking back at it when walking away after parking it. Yes…..it got me good !!!!
Don't suppose you have a video clip of the engine turning over at such high rpm?
Your absolutely right. Why isn’t the Jaguar XJS celebrated more? It’s a stunning and beautiful car. The best of British excess. I love the XJS which I why I have a V12 coupe in my garage. Prices are on the climb so grab one now.
I had a convertible. Despite having a sound top and replacing all of the weather stripping and everything else the dealer could think of, it became a four-wheeled bathtub every time it rained. I finally just gave up and sold it.
Hey, it won Australia's greatest race, " the BATHURST 1000" in 1981, I think thats a great achievement for an english car in an environment it's not designed for!
That’s one of the most Doug Demuro-esque titles I’ve seen in a different channel - love it ;) Also my neighbor had the XJS (in gold), when I was young; i admired it so however I recall my father talking about its endless repairs...
The black bootlid tail panel was replaced by body colour in mid 1977 at which point the B pillar trims went from chrome to black. Dreadful quality but a superb car when it was working. Time has been very kind to the styling as well.
Always liked the XJ-S
Lovely car! Really nice review. Needs to be the V12. The HE is higher compression though (12:1), not lower than the previous.
Excactly! It is also very high compression rate compared to almost any other modern car.
With those Lucas bits . ...I agree.
I had a Dorchester Grey with an antelope, doeskin interior, with the burr walnut of course. Leaping Jaguar on the bonnet helped you judge the long nose, l also loved those buttresses.
I was 21 when l owned mine in '89, it was an '86 model.
The whole point of a car like this is that you buy it with your heart... And what a heart it has. I don't care about what some ageing enthusiasts think of them or why they weren't liked much in period, or the fact that they are so long yet so small inside. That's personality, and all the more reason to love it. I wasn't alive when these were sold & have no historical hangups about them like many seem to. Judging with fresh eyes in 2021, my opinion is the V12 XJS is fantastic.
And many people still don't unleash the sound of the V12! Managed to straightpipe mine and boy it screams like a proper racecar!
We’d love to hear that!
We had a couple of HEs in the 80's and I loved them. As a mile-eating GT it was just superb; the V12 was turbine smooth and had huge grunt (for the day), the cabin was luxurious, it looked purposeful and graceful, it drank oilfields dry. And I loved it!
Quite a scary proposition to buy a 40+ year old one with those electrics which is why they're so cheap. But the classic market will wise-up soon methinks....
I’ve been eyeing a 1990 XJS V12 at 50k miles and I’m head over heels over it. I actually never paid much attention to jaguars especially older models but I saw a XJ6 and I loved the design of it. So I googled the price for a XJ6 when I saw the XJS v12 in red and beige interior with a black convertible top and was like damn!! It’s a sexy looking car
Definately in my top five for looks. Such a unique design. It will never be mistaken for anything else. The market is finally recognizing that they're something special, as prices have started to go up. If you want one I'd get it today because the "drivers" are disappearing. Soon all you'll see are the clapped out cars or the super clean cars.
...and I agree. I like these better than the E-Type.
Good man, James!
"Definitely in my top five", you Can't leave it there! What are your other 4 choices 🤔
Didn’t like them when they came out, but love seeing one now....
I feel the same mate.....I was young and I compared this to a Lotus Esprit (sharp, low, revy)....I'm getting older and these do look good now.
I have a 1987 xjs cabby love it only 5000 made paid 3500 use in 2019 . Only 53k miles
It makes you smile, launching a V12 in a fuel crisis.🤦♂️ I agree with you pal, I prefer the looks over the E Type.😯
Definitely one for the enthusiast as a weekend car, still an eye catcher all these years on.
I have always loved the looks of this car. Beautiful from every angle, the back especially so. Beautiful interior. No other car is like it.
i use my XJS everyday and have done for 8 years. Ultra reliable and ultra cool if you use them and maintain them
It is the AJ16 4.0 which is key
About 10 years ago when prices weren't as high as they are now, I was tempted to buy one of these. It was a V12 and everyone said I was off my nut. Granted it was my every day car, I can see the point but I wanted that sense of occasions. A few friends drove bargain level xj6's that had seen better days and I always felt that the XJ-S was more of a head turner and interesting than other cars of that ilk. Regrets, I have a few....and not getting one of these is high up on that list 😂😂
I think a lot of people regret not getting one when they were cheaper...
I think that list may be quite long now! 😂😂
I think this is my all-time favourite car - albeit in pre-HE form. I’ve always loved the looks, the ‘Martini’ image, and the V12! Might also have had something to do with Return Of The Saint, which used a white Pre-HE…………if only I had the cash!
You’ve got excellent taste, Simon!
I had a '92 XJS-V12, and had a Tremec 6-speed manual put in to replace the automatic. That, along with European springs and shocks made an entirely different, world-class car out of it. Sorry I ever sold it.
I love the title, because its honest!
Whoever says xjs isn't a "sports car" or whatever hasn't driven a new or well sorted car. After replacing all perishables (shocks all round, bushes all round inc antiroll bar ones) this car is so planted, reminding me of my old e46 series bmw.
I've never seen the attraction of the E Type, but I think that's a generational thing
the E type looks completely dated these days...the XL-S will always have a bit of a futuristic feel to it....and we'll never catch up to it :)
When other guys had posters of Countachs, 308 or 512BB Ferraris, and Porsche 911s on their walls, the car I dreamed of was the V12 XJS. The closest I've gotten so far is my Series 3 XJ6, but one day I will have an XJS in my garage!
I own a 1972 E-Type V12 convertible with stick shift and A/C, which is a rather rare combination. I love the E-Type, driving it and shifting the gears is so much fun, the noise is fantastic with that stainless steel exhaust. I also owned a 1991 XJS V12 convertible, which is a very different car compared with the E-Type, and I also loved it. When I want to feel like Steve McQueen escaping from the police, I drive my E-Type. :) When I wanted to cruise around and arrive relaxedly, I drove my XJS. The XJS has a lot of class and style, hard to match. But... eventually I found another car that also has very much style, class and elegance: and so, since mid-2021 I have been the proud owner of an Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage coupe in Chiltern Green and tan leather interior, with a very rare stick shift. I must say I do prefer the DB7 over the XJS, but I don't think this is a fair comparison. Overall, I am a sucker for British classic cars. No other nation is able to build cars with that much style, class and elegance - neither the Italians, and in particular not the Germans (says a German national), or any other. If I had to come up with two things I love about Britain, I'd say it's their beautiful cars and their great sense of humor! Certainly not their cuisine nor football... LOL
I have had a 3.6, straight 6 with Fuel Injection which gives you all the acceleration you could wish for and 35 miles per gallon, even though you can't buy 100 octane 5 star any more. Tesco's Premium is the highest at 99 Octane or 4 star. I have had this car as my only every day transport for 18 years.
There are 15 XJS's like mine left on the road in the UK. as at 2023.
There is a lot for sale in the west coast America. I'm doing my research before I decide to make the move on these guys. Thanks for the info!
One of the best cars ever designed.
The compression was increased with the HE, not decreased. 12.5 :1 (11.5:1 in some markets). Pre HE variants were considerably lower.
Im proud to say i finally own 1 of these
Nice video young man 👍🎩
Regards from a Jaguar lover from Austria!
Thanks for watching! 😁
"Then there's the legroom..."
No there isn't, Joe. That's the problem 🤣
Jag XJS is a car which is very much a mixed bag for me, and I say this as a Jag lover. It has the proportions, the interior and the engine, but somehow I could never warm up to its looks. I'm sure it's a very capable and comfortable long distance cruiser, but it doesn't implore me to make silly financial decisions the way other Jags do effortlessly.
I daily drive a decently modified '89 XJ-S V12 with a Tremec Magnum 6-Speed. As long as you take extremely good care of them, they'll never disappoint. I cannot go anywhere without turning heads and the luscious sound of a moderately unrestricted custom exhaust coupled with a beautiful intake note leaves me with a huge smile on my face every single time.
If you are to consider purchasing this car, beware of the many states that it appears.
A good handful show up for sale because they are past their prime and are in some state of disrepair. Expect an extreme maintenance catch up and in some instances an overhaul.
To hate a car because of it's problems, that were entirely avoidable from previous owners, is ignorant and shameful.
You'll also see a lot of these cars with some sort of engine swap SOMETIMES KEEPING THE V12 BADGE >:(, despite my huge distaste for such an unholy act with this car in particular, that really could be a selling point for some owners. It is undeniably easier and thoughtless, but all soul is lost. Let the weight of that rest on you; and if you can handle that, some of us will secretly envy you while also hating you.
Beautiful car. I prefer it to the E-type any time!
I totally agree. Beautiful looking car. Princess Diana had great taste with her Jag.
TWR took them to Bathurst and killed it! Coolest Bathurst winners ever
I had friends with an HE I drove a few times. Other than the Buick like power steering it was pretty sweet. It covered ground quite rapidly with incredible comfort.
Nothing else quite like them!
HE had higher compression than earlier cars
I owned a 82’ not for everyone. Those who love them LOVE them. I originally wanted to do an engine swap with the twin turbo kit with mine. But every time I opened the bonnet I became a purest. I spent WaYYyy too much on a complete engine rebuild. Lucas electronics was eliminated. Manual installed, after ALL that I had ZERO issues as a daily driver and a weekend drive up and down the 101 coast freeway drives in San Diego. Everywhere I went was nothing but complements and questions. Sadly I’m 2007 a wildfire ripped through my county and burnt my home and garage where I parked her
Amazing machines and today can be fettled and even upgraded (all at some cost) to be everything Jaguar intended. A GT of the old school that was all about 60-120 mph transcontinental journeys, now sadly illegal. I recall 30 years ago travelling in one, and it was in a league of its own. Shrank journey times, cosseted the passenger, and pre HE certainly when you wound it up you were reminded by the sound of that V12 how Jaguar’s reputation was built on the track. So low. So stylish. It remains a must have product. Sod the cost!
Great cruiser - a good one feels unique.
So underrated, pity Jaguar never launched a hot road version in the style of the wonderful touring car. As a child these were pretty much the only every day exotic unless we went into London and saw Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Lets not forget the Germans didn't launch a V12 until well into the 90s so what else had a V12 other than the Italian exotics? Laughable that it was denied type approval in Germany, how many supercars of the time had rear visibility?
I like the XJ-S a lot more than the S3 E-type
I like it better than the E-type
Jaguars have a distinct advantage over all other cars with the drop-dead gorgeous and unmistakeable appearance plus performance to correspond
The Car Wizard got a kit for one of these engines that removes the Lucas stuff and replaces with some lovely carbs. Makes it sweet and much more reliable.
I so love the xjs, thats a beautiful example right colour right engine 😍
Absolutely, a perfect combination!
I have an '88 XJS. It's great when it runs right.
Looks nice. Originally, it was designed to be mid engine you can tell from the design of the rear pillars 🙂
Great Video and beautiful car !!!
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I always thought the top speed was 153 mph ????
...
I'm sure this was the claim for the first XJ12 saloon way back in 1970 ???
...
As i remember "Top Gear" tested a gold XJS HE and it peaked at 146 mph ???
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It blew a hose, got patched up and "off it went" !!!
...
Ah just a beautiful engineered car !!!
My favourite Jaguar.
I prefere it for the E-type too.
I’ve always wondered why it didn’t get the 4 liter Supercharged in-line six?
Rumors are that Ford didn’t want them stepping on the toes of the six cylinder DB7 and its Jag-derived 3.2 supercharged six.
That’s the general consensus - maybe we should compare the two cars...? 🤔
@@ClassicsWorldUK maybe get a 3.6 manual and compare the drive to a V12? 🤔
"... No-one told the inside". LMAO :-) Very nice video, beautiful car
Thanks for watching :)
My 1984 XJS still has both its original exhausts..!
The side repeat indicators to me look like an afterthought and a halfords accessory, they should have used a nicer flush fitted one like ones fitted to german cars
When entering the design & engineering campus of Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn, Michigan, I knew William Clay Ford was in his office if his dark blue XJ-S was parked outside of "Mahogany Row" next to the design dome.
Had 3 over the years. ,still have 87 xjsc ...v12.alot of problems, had 1 with 350 conversion, still the hottest looking car on road....vetts pound salt
It doesn't matter anyone's opinion...it IS a wonderful car! Hurrah for quirky 🤪!
We agree, Sarah!
Looks dam good still 👍🏽
I love the XJS, Would not keep the V12 though lol
Pretty obvious.
The original jag
Xjs
Was built during fuel crisis.
A small. Efficient v 6
So , makes sense actually that
There would be a larger version , if , they could do it ,
Due to , the original v6 being underpowered , and it was , supposed to
Be a sports car
So , to give it more power , add a v 12. That's double the v 6,
It will be more powerful
And so that model will,
Finally live up
To what the real sports car purchaser
Really wanted
But was not possible
During the fuel crisis
I did like the looks of the XJS and it was lovely to drive.F-Type excepted there is nothing in todays Jaguars line up worth getting excited over.Sir William Lyons must be looking down with concern......
Can't help myself I just like all jags.
there is an 88 V12 for sake near me now. The guy died. It's a real beauty but I keep thinking how much the repair bills are going to be and doesn't seem reasonable
Even back in 75 I thought it was underpowered for a V12,yes it was as smooth as silk but the yanks where getting this power from small block V8 s.
The e type has been described like driving a fast truck.
Searching for a 1988 Jaguar XJS convertible front windshield. In Connecticut, will travel.
Good review well done.
Maybe not as athletic as it's ancestors but something has to stand up against the SL in luxury roadster