1988 Jaguar XJ6 XJ40 review from North America

A ton of electrical issues, all door handles went bad - initially repaired by adjusting them, but after there was no adjustment left had to live with them or replace, 3 window motors, switches, air conditioning, heater, the center vents would not open inside (there is a motor that operates a valve inside) vapor lock problem (I live in Arizona) remedied by adding auxiliary fuel pump, starting problems - about every few months the car would not start for no apparent reason- then magically fix itself after being stranded for a few hours, front end issues, leaks - lots of them, warning lights going off all the time - due too bad sensors, car had a smorgasbord of circuit boards - all were re-soldered. Basically a big pile of Junk.

Very comfortable ride, more so than a Mercedes of the era. But a major lack of feedback. Pretty good handling, but vague steering.

Adequate power, although a new Corolla beat me in a merging race.

Gas guzzler.

Engine leaked everything. Sometimes pulling up to a stop light the car would smoke from oil hitting exhaust manifold. Embarrassing in a $60k car. This is what leaked. Engine Oil, Brake Oil, Mineral Oil, Transmission Oil and Power steering oil. The seals had to be replaced basically, I wasn't going to do it and I wasn't going to throw that kind of money at it. You can see why I got rid of it.

Under full acceleration the fuel system made an annoying surging sound, although during this event this sound did not seem to affect it's performance.

Nice body and paint work. Beautifully executed Bright-work.

Interior was regal. Superb leather all around of finest quality. Nice wood (I think Burled Walnut). Cheap plastic. The cruise control knob (which you pull back to activate) broke off and flung into the back seat.

The car mileage had exceeded what most British cars can and should exceed. I will give it that.