1985 Jaguar XJS review from North America
"12 cylinder sex on wheels"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When purchased, the car had been in storage for five years. The front brake rotors, pads, alternator and the left intermediate exhaust pipe required replacement early on. Later on, the air pump pulley had to be replaced... then the air conditioner clutch came apart. Both were easily repaired.
Driving it every day to and from work keeps it lubricated and limber... no other problems after taking out of storage!
General comments?
An unbelievable car... 12 cylinders of real British power, a beautiful sweep of the hood (bonnet), a grand roof profile, and a one of the kind rear end, complete with buttresses! Accented like a car should be, with the very best the Earth can produce; wood, leather and chrome.
Loves gasoline... but who doesn't? A turbine-like "woosh" when passing Asian cars whining along at 90 mph.
Is it a classic? It will be soon...
Is it collectible? One at a time, yes.
Does it turn heads? YES, but...
Most of the time the heads are bald and attached to fat guys like me... I was hoping for better. I suppose they see the car and then remind themselves that when young, they promised themselves they would own one when they could. Well, now's the time. The prices will never be lower.
Maybe the only head it really needs to turn is mine, as I look back at her in the parking lot.
Damn, that's a fine looking car!
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| Jaguars are not just cars, they have a soul, treat them well |
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| 1984 - XJS passenger car 5.7 V12 Was a pain, but is now reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1985 |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.3 V12 HE Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 205000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 210000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 960 |
| Date of Entry | 9th October, 2009 |