I always liked the XJS, they were only about 3 years old when I started working at a BL dealership and to be honest I think they look better today than they did when launched, they have aged very well. Personally, I do prefer the original models, for two reasons, firstly, the original instrument cluster, although not the clearest, just looked cooler. Secondly the V12 engine, again whatever it's pros and cons, I just think it's a cool engine.
I disagree.. The interiors are still a class of their own but have moved to attract more customers but one can still order there own wood grains and leather colours..
I owned a V12 XJS for sixteen years , never let me down , only failure was a high pressure hose to the steering rack which still enabled me to drive to the garage for replacement, we took this car on tour all over Europe , the car was regularly serviced in accordance with the schedules , eventually sold to upgrade to XKR
I had one of these, same age. Had it for two years, drove it from Aylesbury to Italy and back. I wish I'd have kept it. Lovely car, it made friends wherever it went.
Stunning car! The XJS has become my all time favourite classic - I drove the convertible V12 version at the British Car Journey last year, which fulfilled an ambition I’d had since being a boy, playing with my Corgi Return of The Saint model! If my numbers ever come up, I’d be buying a pre-HE V12 on GKN alloys!
Great video Steph. I used to have to drive regularly round the country for work. I owned a Jaguar for a brief while and I agree that the driver’s experience is second to none. The seats and driving position are still the best I have experienced in a car.
it looks like one of those 90's VW Classic Beetle where they put Body Coloured Plastic Trims on places where Chrome used to be or those early 90's cars where it's still boxy in shape but there's hints of that 90's jellybean curves.
Greetings from Colorado, love your videos.... My grandparents lived on Browns Lane in Coventry, the Jaguar test drivers would fly up the road in their cladding cad test cars which was always fun to watch, especially seeing the beautiful XJS's fly by.
Ok, right from the start, I must say, elegant, gorgeous, stylish and clothed period correct. On top of this there is an XJS in this video. Keep up the great work Steph
The XJS really divides option. Personally I love them. Not loved when new, many were left to rot but they are now beginning to be appreciated for the great GT car they always were. Good video Steph. Thanks.
Bought my very own 86 xjs in Febuary 1999 for $13,000 U.S. from a used car dealer just about 6 miles from where I lived. I saw and ad from $1.00 catalogues from 7-11 convenience stores in San Jose, California. mind you, it was a black and white one inch by one inch profile photograph from the catalogue. I was wowed. Tungsten blue with camel interior. Chrome wire wheels and quad headlamps. I hear you brits love the quads. when I arrived at the dealer, the car was at the curb, looking magnificent. I walked in and inquired and the salesman was on the phone and I inquired earlier that afternoon, so he knew who I sorta was, He practically threw the keys to me and said take it for a spin. I had never driven a Jaguar or any British car before so this was a treat and Man what an experience! once I opened the door, that connolly leather smell was sublime! the engine started smoothly and I was smitten. Just drove it a few blocks and I knew I had to buy it. Not because of what car it is, but because I was afraid the next would be owner would not take care of it.(beat the shit out it and leave it to rot) I knew that this wasn't a commuter car but and occasion car. Bought it that day. Driven In rain Only once. She still gives me a smile every time I look at her. and she is very reliable, provided I take care of the small components that make the car run. Never left me stranded and delighted to say I got a few complements on the car when parked or at a stop light. Never will I regret getting her. and she still in my garage! but the wire wheels are a pain to clean by hand. but they do look sparkly when clean. People say the fit and finish is poor but I think the build quality is solid. Interior and exterior. Odometer? It had 53,300 miles when I bought it; (1999) now (2024) 64,700. I would love to have and E-type but this car is a class on its own.
The facelift on these look great. They took care of the disjointed rear end treatment. Speaking of look great, you are looking great Steph. Your clothing choices are awesome.
Hi Steph, what a great video. I have to say though, I much prefer the pre face lift model - my Brother in Law had a 1991 V12, 5.2 convertable. What a machine that was, even at 100 mph, when you put your foot down, you could feel the rear end lower as the power kicked in - fabulous. He had it purely as a sunny day car, it never saw rain, so was kept immaculate in his garage. Sadly he's gone, as has the Jaguar, but it was brilliant to drive - a real 'experience'. Thanks Steph, take special care 🙂 X X
Steph, You are one of the best car reviewers out there (well up with Doug De Mouro et al) and your knowledge of detail of the XJS is exemplary - thanks very much for making this video which I really enjoyed - your point about ULEZ resonates too!
These are some excellent reviews of some amazing vehicles (speaking on the total of your channel). I’ve just started watching your content and I’m quite glad I did. Thanks for all u do.
They were all stunning cars in original specification. I personally like the 1989 HE model. Had one for 25 years and cherished owning it. Superb engine.
Great video. I well remember Jag purists pouring scorn on the XJS but a neighbour had one and gave me a short ride and I thought it was a gorgeous car and quite unlike anything else on the road at the time. Hope it goes to a good home.
Not far from where I used to live, this drive! Very rare I recognise the roads in these videos, but that one had me sitting up. Seeing quite a few XJS vids but might be me watching Return of the Saint reruns too. What a lovely car, and a great vid.
My brother had one from new, he took a right turn on a narrow road 100 yards from his home and the sun was in his eyes and didn't see a lorry coming towards him, the lorry but him broadside and pushed him into a ditch and wrote the Jaguar off. He was ok but gutted.
I live here in the Southeastern US and to me those jaguars are really really cool cars. Spectacular looking when they're taking care of and they look really good like that one there does would you said your video that one's been through restoration and it shows cuz it looks amazing. And of course yourself. You're looking really great too in that car and that's what I always love about your videos. You always you know you dress to the nines you know you just look fantastic in these videos. So congratulations on the recent surgery and the videos are great and that jag is really cool too
Great review of a lovely example. One anorakie detail I'd note about the AJ6 engine, is that it debuted in original 3.6 litre form in the XJS in 1984, 2 years before the XJ40 was launched. Both cars would have received the upgraded 4 litre around the same time, when it replaced production of the earlier 3.6.
I rented one the last model year, it was a convertible. Expected an out of date car.Styling was out of date, but had lots of style. Best rental car ever. Beautiful wood. Workmanship was perfect.
I learned so much about the XJS in this video that i never knew for years. I am guilty of calling them "flying buttrusses" and will NEVER make that mistake again. I know i'm going to take alot of hate from this comment but for me, the XJS was a much more beautiful car than the car that proceded it. I know everyone loves the E-type but for me, the lines of this car are more attractive as a grand tourer that can cross continents in style, comfort and enjoyment. Just a great video.
I agree with your criteria. These cars are so beautiful you could tell someone it is five years old and they would believe you. I met a guy with a 1994 six cylinder and he said it was very reliable , much better than the 12 cylinder. (from Niagara Falls, Canada)
Fantastic, Steph. I have a feeling that we're I the owner, rather than selling that beauty I would have been calling "Location, Location, Location" or "Escape To The Country" and moving! With London property prices, a Londoner could sell and move to anywhere within an hour commute, and have two or three times the property as well as keeping the car. I remember when these were new. Loved them right off the bat. My dream would be one of the late 6 cylinder drop heads with the 5 speed manual. Preferably in light blue metallic with the dark blue top and interior. C'est Magnifique.
I have the same model, absolutely agree with your views. Mine has an electric Ariel - still great fun to have on a car! Unfortunately my air con does not work, I’m told it could be expensive to repair. It has such a fun factor.
The early xjs’s had lots of gremlins, but the face life version with a 4 speed gearbox instead of a 3 speed was a fantastic car, it was in production for such a long time, they sorted out most of the issues. I love the wood trim added to the dash cluster in the later cars, it’s 70s styling with a modern twist, it’s such a sorted car in its later years.
Excellent review Steph, a really good looking car, if it was not for the dreaded Ultra Low Emission Zone coming into force in Edinburgh next year I would have one of these.
Thanks for another smashing video. You always point out features that appeal to you and I find that I share your opinions and priorities. The XJS Jaguar you reviewed was a beautiful example: I would like to own it, even just to look at ❤.
I had a drive of a late XJS last year. such a lovely old thing. Great Video steph. The only good thing about the ULEZ is all the cars like this that are coming up for sale
❤❤❤❤ this Jaguar xjs review,Idrivesclassic you have done a superb informative, telling, thought Provoking & inspiring review on a dream car of mine for decades & can now easily afford one, at present, unfortunately for me,I live in the Southern Caribbean & our laws will not permit cars vintage onto the islands ( politics ) lol, this car you review is epic, spectacular, incredibly Stunning & preserved. Thanks for sharing & just wanted you to know my Lady, you've done an excellent video on this jaguar.... I'd be in London for the Fallthid year, so who knows..cheers.
The facelift was a big improvement. I've been looking for one to buy. I found a pre-facelift in the colors I wanted, and gave ti ta drive. The seats were not nearly as adjustable, the turn signal and cruise control stalks were ridiculously flimsy, the bumpers looked funny, and they had a cardboard box under the car to catch lal the fluids dripping out. I will say, the drum gauges were way cooler than the round dials on fake plastic of the facelift cars.
I had a XJS convertible as my daily driver for about eight years. Although I loved it I would not say it didn't have its problems. It was too heavily to be a sports car and wasn't comfortable enough to be a tourer. It used to amuse me that when starting, the row of warning lights would randomly go off all within twenty seconds as it went through its system checks, unlike a BMW which would go off a second after the car started, except for the break lamp check, which required a tap of the breaks. I often wondered what the electrical design was that require twenty seconds to check everything. Driving it fast, loads of oversteer, brake fade a real problem and acceleration just a little sluggish. Used loads of oil and was lucky to get 18mpg. Where it was most at home was with the roof down cruising around central London, where so many people loved it and that prompted numerous conversations at traffic lights from its many admirers. I was sad to let it go, but eight years was enough to get it out of my system. I'm not sure as I liked the hard-top as much as the convertible.
in 1978 my boss had a new one BRM217T and he allowed me to drive i fell in love with jag i am a proud owner of one on the last XKs built and i am keeping this car
I own a Red 91 Coupe V12 before facelift and a 95 British Racing green convertible ; they have been very reliable, trouble free and a pleasure to drive. Like anything in life , you must take care of them and not neglect them. Get one while they are still available . ..very classy automobile
A dream car for me and you drove past where my first real job was, the driving centre where I took my test, Greenhams BMX track (long gone) where I spent much of my youth in the 80s. Had you turned right out of the car park and crossed the A4 you would have got a better driving road with more of a country feel. Great video, want an XJS anyway, but now feeling homesick as I am stuck on the wrong side of the pond.
The best review you have done by far. A couple of pointers that you did miss that are important. The brakes were moved from inboard to outboard which made maintenance a lot easier. Also the later model gained a galvanised chassis which is obviously a lot better. I have never been in one or driven one. Again the best review you had done. Yes you have missed out some facts but those you stated were correct. No one can gripe at anyone for missing out on some facts simply because where do you stop. However, as I have said the Sprint review is riddled with tripe, this one is not. We both really enjoyed this, I say again, great stuff !!!
What a nice ride, I'm an 80s coupe man myself.....please, please bring on a 635csi from the eighties I've had two, it will blown you away. Please try and hunt one down x
Nice. A few hiccups along the way, but I drive my 94' XJS Kingfisher-blue straight 6 as my daily driver here in Northern California. Such a pretty and fairly reliable car; easy to work on too.
Watching whilst eating my lunch, I realised you are next to the Great West Road in Brentford! I used to live in Brentford! Lovely car as well... Always wanted to drive one.
Fun fact re the buttresses - they were originally meant to be the sides to house a full rear glass panel for the boot - or as the US might like - the trunk - there is a video I have seen - or at least a picture maybe even a company that can do the conversion for it - great little video - I have a v12 and it is the smoothest ride next to a Rolls.
I remember a Jag commercial from around 1994. They said something about "gold plated connectors". I looked, but they had the regular tin plated Ampseal everywhere. But my X300 leaked battery. I measured & measured. Turned out to be oxidation on the only gold plated switch in the car - the little contacts that switches on the iluminated make up mirror... But you could not see it with the cover closed. So that was a hilarious luxury car fault... But there is little a gold there, actually..
That is a stunning UK muscle car. I'll have to hide the puppy Dalmatian until you've rounded the street corner, but what a stunning car, what powerful lines, what a gorgeous wood trimmed interior.
My mates dad had a 1978 XJS from new. I had a lift to the train station in it in 1979. It was very brisk, and gave that famous magic carpet ride. I have never been in one since, but always fancied one. However, the build quality was never as good as it should have been... It is a good looking car though.
This is the spec I would like to get if I ever buy an XJS. This s a very nice car. Maybe it could be red color? Also, just like my XJ40, there is something really enjoyable about a car where the siting position is absolutely perfect. My 1993 Dodge Colt, the rounded Mitsubishi Colt or Proton was this way too.
Hi Steph, both you and Ian have put out reviews of the XJS this week and I have enjoyed both of them, the only sad part for me is I sold mine just last week, had I seen both your videos before I sold it I may have changed my mind, oh well it's gone now and I have to look forward to getting another😄😄
I couldn't possibly say if it's the best- but it' my favourite Jag... It's just a classic period... Concorde, hovercrafts, the XJS... everything was cool then :D
My wife had a 93 4.0 sport , dark blue metallic, cream leather with lattice wheels 20 years ago, 2 years and 30k of trouble free motoring , only major fault was the battery drain from the boot light switch, cheap fix when I finally found it.
When that Jaguar hits 40 years old it will be allowed back into the ULEZ free of charge, as then classed as a classic car crazy isn't it. A shame owners having to give up their beloved cars.
This is what infuriates me! There should be an amnesty for anyone with an old car in the area currently. Once that car dies, it’s then for them to move forwards with something new.
Classic cars carbon hit on the day it was made is so long ago and that's why they are environmentally friendly. I read they are phasing out half price clean burning LPG which i run in my 1979 Cadillac Coupe Deville and that's criminal .I would love to run even greener LNG but only 8 petrol stations in the UK sell it .Again criminal . It's obvious they want us all in electric cars or no cars .
@@simonhodgetts6530 and it's a ulez cancer spreading through out the country, and will sadly get worse. Khan then wants to charge per mile for driving in the Capital, my neighbour told me as he works for TFL.
I've always liked the XJ-S from the time I saw it on the Ian Ogilvy version of "The Saint" TV show when I was a child. This later version is a lot cleaner and prettier in terms of the styling, though.
The XJS has always been an underrated and under valued car, but finally it is starting to get the recognition it deserves. All variants are great cars, but ultimately for me the original incarnation of the XJ-S is the prettiest of all, with cleaner lines and a more pure design .
Wow, two XJS videos in a week. 😎 😉 I think the styling of these have aged extremely well and I do appreciate cars with long production life cycles. 🙂 Very sad to learn the reason that this is up for sale. ULEZ is going to make the motoring landscape in London very dull and boring. Thank you Comrade Khan.
Interesting to see this. Ditto here for ownership of one of these. Beautiful car, but leery about it's reliability, so after about 3 years sold it with 50k on it. But it gave us almost no problems during that time.
I'm wondering if the indicator/wiper stalks came direct from Austin Rover, or whatever it was called at the time. Something similar to those were on the Maestro and Montego, I believe.
I always liked the XJS, they were only about 3 years old when I started working at a BL dealership and to be honest I think they look better today than they did when launched, they have aged very well.
Personally, I do prefer the original models, for two reasons, firstly, the original instrument cluster, although not the clearest, just looked cooler. Secondly the V12 engine, again whatever it's pros and cons, I just think it's a cool engine.
I’d be happy with anything badged XJS after driving this. Although this one would be perfect ❤️
@@mcgrory5225 Just an honest to God true statement. Love it.
@@idriveaclassic XJ220 is obviously the best Jag.
Plpr rx🎉😂
No one made better interiors than Jaguar. It's a shame the current owners abandoned that tradition.
It is a shame x
I disagree.. The interiors are still a class of their own but have moved to attract more customers but one can still order there own wood grains and leather colours..
Rolls Royce did and still does.
@@mykehyslop198 Sure, if gaudy is your taste.
you need comfy interior while waiting for tow truck
I owned a V12 XJS for sixteen years , never let me down , only failure was a high pressure hose to the steering rack which still enabled me to drive to the garage for replacement, we took this car on tour all over Europe , the car was regularly serviced in accordance with the schedules , eventually sold to upgrade to XKR
Bro typin the same comment everywhere💀
I had one of these, same age. Had it for two years, drove it from Aylesbury to Italy and back. I wish I'd have kept it. Lovely car, it made friends wherever it went.
Stunning car! The XJS has become my all time favourite classic - I drove the convertible V12 version at the British Car Journey last year, which fulfilled an ambition I’d had since being a boy, playing with my Corgi Return of The Saint model! If my numbers ever come up, I’d be buying a pre-HE V12 on GKN alloys!
Great video Steph. I used to have to drive regularly round the country for work. I owned a Jaguar for a brief while and I agree that the driver’s experience is second to none. The seats and driving position are still the best I have experienced in a car.
I’m glad I’m not just being silly and somebody else gets it. Haha!
As a retired Jaguar Technician, i worked on nothing but Jags from 1963 to 2011, i liked the model, but so much to go wrong.
I currently am considering changing out my 2000 XJ for an earlier one. Perhaps series 1 XJ manual. Are they good handling cars you think ? Thanks!
I completely agree with you on the emission zone scam
I used to have a 1990 xjs 3.6. I loved it. I used it every day, it was supremely reliable and I'd have another in a heartbeat if I had the 💸
Unpopular opinion. I think this facelift is prettier that the original.
I feel like it’s not the unpopular opinion judging by the comments haha!
I think they’re all beautiful - although personally i prefer the early pre-HE cars myself.
The 90s facelift was beautiful!
it looks like one of those 90's VW Classic Beetle where they put Body Coloured Plastic Trims on places where Chrome used to be
or those early 90's cars where it's still boxy in shape but there's hints of that 90's jellybean curves.
It’s a lovely car and the one lusted after when it was new.
Greetings from Colorado, love your videos.... My grandparents lived on Browns Lane in Coventry, the Jaguar test drivers would fly up the road in their cladding cad test cars which was always fun to watch, especially seeing the beautiful XJS's fly by.
Ok, right from the start, I must say, elegant, gorgeous, stylish and clothed period correct. On top of this there is an XJS in this video.
Keep up the great work Steph
She's a great researcher with none of the silly boy racer attitude which drives most people mad. What a car on offer.
Hi!! Great review!! I was thinking of buying a 1995 Jaguar XJS Celebration .. and your review may have convinced me!👍🙂
The XJS really divides option. Personally I love them. Not loved when new, many were left to rot but they are now beginning to be appreciated for the great GT car they always were. Good video Steph. Thanks.
Still, the XJS is one of the most beautiful cars ever built. To me, any year, any model is just so stunning!
I agree!
Omg, I could kill for a late-model XJS.... Such an iconic car!!! I absolutely adore the face-lift model ❤️
I'm lucky enough to have an early facelift XJS, it's an amazing car. Thank you for the review 👍😊
From the first time I ever saw an XJS in 1976, I said “One day”.
One day I did, and I loved it. But it took me 14 years to get to own that dream car.
Harold loves that car father had xj6 it was a problem 2:26
Bought my very own 86 xjs in Febuary 1999 for $13,000 U.S. from a used car dealer just about 6 miles from where I lived. I saw and ad from $1.00 catalogues from 7-11 convenience stores in San Jose, California. mind you, it was a black and white one inch by one inch profile photograph from the catalogue. I was wowed. Tungsten blue with camel interior. Chrome wire wheels and quad headlamps. I hear you brits love the quads. when I arrived at the dealer, the car was at the curb, looking magnificent. I walked in and inquired and the salesman was on the phone and I inquired earlier that afternoon, so he knew who I sorta was, He practically threw the keys to me and said take it for a spin. I had never driven a Jaguar or any British car before so this was a treat and Man what an experience! once I opened the door, that connolly leather smell was sublime! the engine started smoothly and I was smitten. Just drove it a few blocks and I knew I had to buy it. Not because of what car it is, but because I was afraid the next would be owner would not take care of it.(beat the shit out it and leave it to rot) I knew that this wasn't a commuter car but and occasion car. Bought it that day. Driven In rain Only once. She still gives me a smile every time I look at her. and she is very reliable, provided I take care of the small components that make the car run. Never left me stranded and delighted to say I got a few complements on the car when parked or at a stop light. Never will I regret getting her. and she still in my garage! but the wire wheels are a pain to clean by hand. but they do look sparkly when clean. People say the fit and finish is poor but I think the build quality is solid. Interior and exterior. Odometer? It had 53,300 miles when I bought it; (1999) now (2024) 64,700. I would love to have and E-type but this car is a class on its own.
The facelift on these look great. They took care of the disjointed rear end treatment. Speaking of look great, you are looking great Steph. Your clothing choices are awesome.
Yes, she's a smart lady... I suppose we are still allowed to say that these days. chuckle.
Hi Steph, what a great video. I have to say though, I much prefer the pre face lift model - my Brother in Law had a 1991 V12, 5.2 convertable. What a machine that was, even at 100 mph, when you put your foot down, you could feel the rear end lower as the power kicked in - fabulous. He had it purely as a sunny day car, it never saw rain, so was kept immaculate in his garage. Sadly he's gone, as has the Jaguar, but it was brilliant to drive - a real 'experience'. Thanks Steph, take special care 🙂 X X
Steph, You are one of the best car reviewers out there (well up with Doug De Mouro et al) and your knowledge of detail of the XJS is exemplary - thanks very much for making this video which I really enjoyed - your point about ULEZ resonates too!
These are some excellent reviews of some amazing vehicles (speaking on the total of your channel). I’ve just started watching your content and I’m quite glad I did. Thanks for all u do.
They were all stunning cars in original specification. I personally like the 1989 HE model. Had one for 25 years and cherished owning it. Superb engine.
These things have aged beautifully and this one looks stunning in silver.
Yes the silver keeps it fresh
Always my favourite Jag. It still looks gorgeous after all these years
Great video. I well remember Jag purists pouring scorn on the XJS but a neighbour had one and gave me a short ride and I thought it was a gorgeous car and quite unlike anything else on the road at the time. Hope it goes to a good home.
Not far from where I used to live, this drive! Very rare I recognise the roads in these videos, but that one had me sitting up.
Seeing quite a few XJS vids but might be me watching Return of the Saint reruns too. What a lovely car, and a great vid.
My brother had one from new, he took a right turn on a narrow road 100 yards from his home and the sun was in his eyes and didn't see a lorry coming towards him, the lorry but him broadside and pushed him into a ditch and wrote the Jaguar off. He was ok but gutted.
Poor guy. Awful thing to happen.
Lucky guy, probably survived because of the strength of that great car…
Having owned a 1977 V12 pre-HE as a daily driver, I can appreciate the refinement of a six-cylinder facelift XJ-S.
Going by the Jaguar literature in 1995 there were little difference in performance between the two and the handle was better in the 4litre car.
Great review as ever. You certainly dress for the occasion and complement the car.
Thank you David!
I live here in the Southeastern US and to me those jaguars are really really cool cars. Spectacular looking when they're taking care of and they look really good like that one there does would you said your video that one's been through restoration and it shows cuz it looks amazing. And of course yourself. You're looking really great too in that car and that's what I always love about your videos. You always you know you dress to the nines you know you just look fantastic in these videos. So congratulations on the recent surgery and the videos are great and that jag is really cool too
Great review of a lovely example.
One anorakie detail I'd note about the AJ6 engine, is that it debuted in original 3.6 litre form in the XJS in 1984, 2 years before the XJ40 was launched.
Both cars would have received the upgraded 4 litre around the same time, when it replaced production of the earlier 3.6.
In my opinion it's one of the best looking cars made since the E-Type.
Agree!
Stunning elegant car with a fantastic interior but for me it has to have the brilliant V12 .Great review Steph.
Thank you!
I rented one the last model year, it was a convertible. Expected an out of date car.Styling was out of date, but had lots of style. Best rental car ever. Beautiful wood. Workmanship was perfect.
I learned so much about the XJS in this video that i never knew for years. I am guilty of calling them "flying buttrusses" and will NEVER make that mistake again. I know i'm going to take alot of hate from this comment but for me, the XJS was a much more beautiful car than the car that proceded it. I know everyone loves the E-type but for me, the lines of this car are more attractive as a grand tourer that can cross continents in style, comfort and enjoyment. Just a great video.
I agree with your criteria. These cars are so beautiful you could tell someone it is five years old and they would believe you. I met a guy with a 1994 six cylinder and he said it was very reliable , much better than the 12 cylinder. (from Niagara Falls, Canada)
I've owned a 1980 and a 1984. Loved it. Did all my own maintenance. Drove daily.
Loving the lines.. you're doing well. That jag also has a good shape. Keep at it, you are doing yourself proud.
Fantastic, Steph. I have a feeling that we're I the owner, rather than selling that beauty I would have been calling "Location, Location, Location" or "Escape To The Country" and moving! With London property prices, a Londoner could sell and move to anywhere within an hour commute, and have two or three times the property as well as keeping the car.
I remember when these were new. Loved them right off the bat. My dream would be one of the late 6 cylinder drop heads with the 5 speed manual. Preferably in light blue metallic with the dark blue top and interior. C'est Magnifique.
I have the same model, absolutely agree with your views. Mine has an electric Ariel - still great fun to have on a car! Unfortunately my air con does not work, I’m told it could be expensive to repair. It has such a fun factor.
I love this Lady's presentation! She is Spot On ! All my questions are always answered 🤓
The early xjs’s had lots of gremlins, but the face life version with a 4 speed gearbox instead of a 3 speed was a fantastic car, it was in production for such a long time, they sorted out most of the issues. I love the wood trim added to the dash cluster in the later cars, it’s 70s styling with a modern twist, it’s such a sorted car in its later years.
Had the pleasure of a drive in the XJS and an XJ6 both beautiful unbeatable for the money. Great review too!
Excellent review Steph, a really good looking car, if it was not for the dreaded Ultra Low Emission Zone coming into force in Edinburgh next year I would have one of these.
Thanks for another smashing video. You always point out features that appeal to you and I find that I share your opinions and priorities.
The XJS Jaguar you reviewed was a beautiful example: I would like to own it, even just to look at ❤.
I had a drive of a late XJS last year. such a lovely old thing. Great Video steph. The only good thing about the ULEZ is all the cars like this that are coming up for sale
❤❤❤❤ this Jaguar xjs review,Idrivesclassic you have done a superb informative, telling, thought Provoking & inspiring review on a dream car of mine for decades & can now easily afford one, at present, unfortunately for me,I live in the Southern Caribbean & our laws will not permit cars vintage onto the islands ( politics ) lol, this car you review is epic, spectacular, incredibly Stunning & preserved. Thanks for sharing & just wanted you to know my Lady, you've done an excellent video on this jaguar.... I'd be in London for the Fallthid year, so who knows..cheers.
The facelift was a big improvement. I've been looking for one to buy. I found a pre-facelift in the colors I wanted, and gave ti ta drive. The seats were not nearly as adjustable, the turn signal and cruise control stalks were ridiculously flimsy, the bumpers looked funny, and they had a cardboard box under the car to catch lal the fluids dripping out. I will say, the drum gauges were way cooler than the round dials on fake plastic of the facelift cars.
Certainly a car I wanted in my youth.
I blame Ian Ogilvy.
Great review
Thank you!
It said "make economies, not sacrifices" in the early magazine ads. Your praise brings truth to the advertising 😀
STEPH BOTH YOU AND CAR LOOKING VERY POSH. THANKS.
Yet another excellent video on another great car, good luck doing a video on the ULEZ, if I tried that I would be banned from youtube for a month.
I had a XJS convertible as my daily driver for about eight years.
Although I loved it I would not say it didn't have its problems. It was too heavily to be a sports car and wasn't comfortable enough to be a tourer. It used to amuse me that when starting, the row of warning lights would randomly go off all within twenty seconds as it went through its system checks, unlike a BMW which would go off a second after the car started, except for the break lamp check, which required a tap of the breaks. I often wondered what the electrical design was that require twenty seconds to check everything.
Driving it fast, loads of oversteer, brake fade a real problem and acceleration just a little sluggish. Used loads of oil and was lucky to get 18mpg.
Where it was most at home was with the roof down cruising around central London, where so many people loved it and that prompted numerous conversations at traffic lights from its many admirers.
I was sad to let it go, but eight years was enough to get it out of my system. I'm not sure as I liked the hard-top as much as the convertible.
This is a good looking car but what I like the most is the SIMPLE dash and clearly marked switches.
in 1978 my boss had a new one BRM217T and he allowed me to drive i fell in love with jag i am a proud owner of one on the last XKs built and i am keeping this car
A rare car that improved with age . It’s a shame that you couldn’t have driven the wonderful roads of Yorkshire .
I know. It was 5 hours down, no way could we have got the car up to us
I own a Red 91 Coupe V12 before facelift and a 95 British Racing green convertible ; they have been very reliable, trouble free and a pleasure to drive. Like anything in life , you must take care of them and not neglect them.
Get one while they are still available . ..very classy automobile
A dream car for me and you drove past where my first real job was, the driving centre where I took my test, Greenhams BMX track (long gone) where I spent much of my youth in the 80s. Had you turned right out of the car park and crossed the A4 you would have got a better driving road with more of a country feel. Great video, want an XJS anyway, but now feeling homesick as I am stuck on the wrong side of the pond.
The best review you have done by far. A couple of pointers that you did miss that are important. The brakes were moved from inboard to outboard which made maintenance a lot easier. Also the later model gained a galvanised chassis which is obviously a lot better. I have never been in one or driven one. Again the best review you had done. Yes you have missed out some facts but those you stated were correct. No one can gripe at anyone for missing out on some facts simply because where do you stop. However, as I have said the Sprint review is riddled with tripe, this one is not. We both really enjoyed this, I say again, great stuff !!!
Thanks Paul that is generous praise.
What a nice ride, I'm an 80s coupe man myself.....please, please bring on a 635csi from the eighties I've had two, it will blown you away. Please try and hunt one down x
Brilliant suggestion! My uncle had a 635csi and it was the best car ever on long trips.
Wish I never sold my last one. Series 1 from 1981
I lust after these cars Steph, magnificent beasts.
Me too! Such a fan
Wow that is a beauty Steph, nice review dear.
Nice. A few hiccups along the way, but I drive my 94' XJS Kingfisher-blue straight 6 as my daily driver here in Northern California. Such a pretty and fairly reliable car; easy to work on too.
Watching whilst eating my lunch, I realised you are next to the Great West Road in Brentford! I used to live in Brentford! Lovely car as well... Always wanted to drive one.
And driving around Isleworth where I took my driving test!
I’ve got a pre-facelift v12. Love it.
I had a Tremec 6-speed manual put into my 92 XJS-V12 and it made a whole new car of it.
Still has the wow factor - beautiful shape and attention to detail- when that car goes down the street every pair of eyes is on it deservedly so !
Fun fact re the buttresses - they were originally meant to be the sides to house a full rear glass panel for the boot - or as the US might like - the trunk - there is a video I have seen - or at least a picture maybe even a company that can do the conversion for it - great little video - I have a v12 and it is the smoothest ride next to a Rolls.
I remember a Jag commercial from around 1994. They said something about "gold plated connectors". I looked, but they had the regular tin plated Ampseal everywhere.
But my X300 leaked battery. I measured & measured. Turned out to be oxidation on the only gold plated switch in the car - the little contacts that switches on the iluminated make up mirror... But you could not see it with the cover closed. So that was a hilarious luxury car fault... But there is little a gold there, actually..
Lovely car, always preferred the earlier model in looks terms but this car I could easily warm too . Always liked the Jaguar AJ 6 / 16 engines too
I enjoyed watching this video on the lovely XJS, one of my favourite Jaguar's.
Why do old cars look so good great vids Steph
The Maserati with flying butteresses was the Merak
Yeah there should be a pic pop up as I continue chatting 😊
@@idriveaclassicthe Merak also has a V8 powered companion called the Bora... Same body but V8 engine
That is a stunning UK muscle car. I'll have to hide the puppy Dalmatian until you've rounded the street corner, but what a stunning car, what powerful lines, what a gorgeous wood trimmed interior.
My mates dad had a 1978 XJS from new. I had a lift to the train station in it in 1979. It was very brisk, and gave that famous magic carpet ride. I have never been in one since, but always fancied one. However, the build quality was never as good as it should have been... It is a good looking car though.
Good lord absolutely beautiful .the late xjs look awesome in red .
This is the spec I would like to get if I ever buy an XJS. This s a very nice car. Maybe it could be red color? Also, just like my XJ40, there is something really enjoyable about a car where the siting position is absolutely perfect. My 1993 Dodge Colt, the rounded Mitsubishi Colt or Proton was this way too.
After owning a red car and dealing with colour fade, never again
Comes with body in boot
Return of the Saint. Always loved it :)
Hi Steph, both you and Ian have put out reviews of the XJS this week and I have enjoyed both of them, the only sad part for me is I sold mine just last week, had I seen both your videos before I sold it I may have changed my mind, oh well it's gone now and I have to look forward to getting another😄😄
Let us both influence you to welcome another big cat into your arms! This one is for sale btw 😉😉😉😉😉😉
I couldn't possibly say if it's the best- but it' my favourite Jag...
It's just a classic period... Concorde, hovercrafts, the XJS... everything was cool then :D
Love this Jag! It is indeed the best car built ever!
My wife had a 93 4.0 sport , dark blue metallic, cream leather with lattice wheels 20 years ago, 2 years and 30k of trouble free motoring , only major fault was the battery drain from the boot light switch, cheap fix when I finally found it.
When that Jaguar hits 40 years old it will be allowed back into the ULEZ free of charge, as then classed as a classic car crazy isn't it. A shame owners having to give up their beloved cars.
This is what infuriates me! There should be an amnesty for anyone with an old car in the area currently. Once that car dies, it’s then for them to move forwards with something new.
Classic cars carbon hit on the day it was made is so long ago and that's why they are environmentally friendly.
I read they are phasing out half price clean burning LPG which i run in my 1979 Cadillac Coupe Deville and that's criminal .I would love to run even greener LNG but only 8 petrol stations in the UK sell it .Again criminal .
It's obvious they want us all in electric cars or no cars .
@@idriveaclassic I agree with you, a registration system as such.
Shows the idiocy of ULEZ - you can drive a 40yr old 4litre gas guzzler in the zone, but not a 10yr old car with relatively modern emission controls………
@@simonhodgetts6530 and it's a ulez cancer spreading through out the country, and will sadly get worse.
Khan then wants to charge per mile for driving in the Capital, my neighbour told me as he works for TFL.
This suits you right down to the ground 🎯
I know right. Why isn’t fate giving me a lottery win to get one
Flying buttresses..Lancia Monte Carlo although they added glass to the later ones .I owned one
Oh lovely! Lucky you ☺️
Thanks for posting Steph. You really suit the white fur hat. Is it vintage. 😊👍
Yep! The only new thing you’ll see me wear is shoes and tights. Everything else is usually 50+ years old
@@idriveaclassic Awesome 👍
I've always liked the XJ-S from the time I saw it on the Ian Ogilvy version of "The Saint" TV show when I was a child. This later version is a lot cleaner and prettier in terms of the styling, though.
I loved the XJ-S as a kid.Still a big imposing car😍
The XJS has always been an underrated and under valued car, but finally it is starting to get the recognition it deserves. All variants are great cars, but ultimately for me the original incarnation of the XJ-S is the prettiest of all, with cleaner lines and a more pure design .
Wow, two XJS videos in a week. 😎 😉 I think the styling of these have aged extremely well and I do appreciate cars with long production life cycles. 🙂
Very sad to learn the reason that this is up for sale. ULEZ is going to make the motoring landscape in London very dull and boring. Thank you Comrade Khan.
We somehow timed it well. Haha
Get the hell out of cesspit London, or any other city for that matter.
Excellent presentation. I enjoyed very much.
Beautiful car and great video.
Thanks for a great video Steph. Pity you couldn't open it up on the open road.. They were a great car especially with this engine.
What ever you choose I'll be watching mate love the working man honesty keep up the good work 👍
Interesting to see this. Ditto here for ownership of one of these. Beautiful car, but leery about it's reliability, so after about 3 years sold it with 50k on it. But it gave us almost no problems during that time.
I'm wondering if the indicator/wiper stalks came direct from Austin Rover, or whatever it was called at the time. Something similar to those were on the Maestro and Montego, I believe.