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Another Buying Question...

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malexalex

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Hey, I'm interested in getting an older ('70's-80's or maybe even 90's) jaguar xjs convertible and was wondering if anyone can recommend any specific years to look for or avoid, and what to look for on the actual car in terms of usual problems or faults... Any help would be much appreciated!
Thanks,
-Alex
 
The first convertibles appeared 1988/'89, and were converted from coupes by Hess and Eisenhardt here in the 'States. The workmanship was good, and it's difficult to distinguish between their cars and the later factory convertibles. The biggest giveaway is that the header at the top of the windshiled is wider than that on the factory cars.

Mechanically, the same things to watch out for on the convertibles are the same as for the coupes, and service history is everything with these cars. Fluids need to be checked religiously, and kept topped off, anti-freeze should be checked and changed regularly.

They produced these with the 4.0 litre inline six later in the production run, in conjunction with the V-12. Either engine is reliable and well-proven, the V12 needing a little more TLC of course.

Beautifull cars, my father is considering buying one of these right now, but a late-model example, '94 or so.

Make certain that the roof mechanism works smoothly and quietly, and that the roof is in good shape.

One of our resident Jaguar gurus will be along shortly to add some detail and good advice I am sure.
 
Hess and Eisenharts were made in 87 and 88. They made approximately 2000 cars. The H and E specific parts are hard to get.They used 2 fuel tanks, 2 weird senders, and the rear window motors . The top stacks flush with the body when down. These cars were troublesome when new, but most survivors have been sorted out.

Factory converts started in the 89 model year. I like the 89s the best. No air bag, a one year only steering wheel, early cars have lucas ignition and distributor. The wood was "bookmatched"and the door wood have inlays. As the cars get newer, the doors lose the inlays, etc. In 94 thru 96 there was a 6.0 litre V12 available, with the 4 speed auto. Very low production, and a really quick car.

The 4.0 litre cars are simpler, and take less maintainence. They are not as cool though. Nothing beats a V12.In 94 there were a small number of 5 speed cars sold here. Rare and nice.
In short, in my opinion anyway, the newer they get, the cheaper they get. Ford introduced some cost cutting, and if you see enough cars, it shows. If you find one that you like, then it doesen't matter. Just drive and enjoy.
 
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