Should You Buy a FUTURE CLASSIC? (JAGUAR XJS Test Drive & Review)

[@johnschofield3940]

I think you are really good at making and presenting these videos and I predict a big growth in subscribers over time if you can keep to this standard.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@thatginettaguy1714]

I would second that

[@thequack13]

your niche is that you tell us about thing we really want to know and not just figures and stats keep up the great vids, Top Gear will need a new presenter at some point lol

[@vxrbandit2527]

I totally agree 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 I have been watching from day one and his dry sense of humour, very intelligent remarks and no BS approach is a joy to watch.

[@epexlinux]

Agreed

[@ruk2023--]

My current favourite autotrader game is finding the cheapest BMW's with bigger than 4 litre engines within a 50 mile radius. And then doing absolutely nothing about it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Hahaha Yeah I do that sometimes too

[@darrenjohnson3486]

Very funny, good one mate!!

I do exactly this 😂

[@jacklee7104]

Done that plenty, and bought a few. .

[@ThelawnfeedcompanyBuderim]

Brilliant

[@gary1642]

As a very young boy I found a dirty mag in a hedge . There was a advert for the XJS , I was that young I stared at the car more than the girls . I always loved the XJS from then on . Over time I fell out of love with the Jag then last week in Llandudno I saw a white XJS wafting along and I couldn't take my eyes off it . You are 100% correct they are becoming desirable again . Great video one year ahead of me .

[@gary1705]

A friend of mine hear in Australia bought a V12 one of these brand new and we were driving in the country he said for me to watch the speedo while he watched the road and told me to tell him when we got to 200 KPH . The car was silent and smooth at that speed and there was absolutely no sense of speed...amazing experience that I shall never forget.👍

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats quite right, its so quiet!

[@rovercoupe7104]

I wouldn’t call the ashtrays ‘his’ and ‘hers’. M.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Rover Coupe left and right then?

[@rovercoupe7104]

A woman driving a Jaguar is especially beautiful. M.

[@DiscoFang]

​@@rovercoupe7104 If you want the ultimate woman Jaguar driver Google the name "Sybil Lupp". She was a New Zealand Racing driver, mechanic and general woman about town. She and a business partner also become the local Jaguar Agents. I remember seeing her all the time in my city (Wellington) in her 70's driving her gold, manual, V12 E-Type convertible, top down, scarf flying. Even when arthritis stopped her doing major mechanical work she she still did the carb tuning etc herself. She moved to an XJS with an auto when she found it harder to drive. As a teen in the 80's it was an inspiration just to be yourself, every time I saw her zooming around. This is a great article on her: teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/5l21/lupp-sybil-audrey-marie

[@jeffallinson8089]

The XJS looks stunning even by today's standards. I love them.

[@jeffallinson8089]

@You Tube Who cares what he thinks? I sure don't.

[@jeffallinson8089]

@You Tube It has stood the test of time really well I think.

[@martinhunt6004]

@@jeffallinson8089 Most splendid!

[@davidhealy4534]

Today's standards? Today's cars look SHITE!

[@thewomble1509]

@@davidhealy4534 Two words; Nissan Juke! 🙄😜

[@WestfieldFreshAir]

I walked around Mayfair, London on a Sunday morning a few months ago. There was 1 XJS on the street amongst all the exotics, it was the only cool car there.

[@HighPeakAutos]

WestfieldFreshAir I love driving around wealthy parts of London for that reason. You often see some rare classics

[@asensibleyoungman2978]

I actually agree with that. Modern flash cars just look gaudy and chavvy to me. The XJS is a classy car but it's still a money pit.

[@sixpoint3]

@@asensibleyoungman2978 Money pit and tricky to keep running. I've had 5 of them for years and never had one running nor driving.

[@ph8077]

@@asensibleyoungman2978 Errr F-Type? I _might_ be a bit biased 😁 400 Sport owner.

[@studiodevelopers2467]

@@HighPeakAutos XJS Number 1

[@mickyeverton]

Out of all the cars I have ever brought (lost count of how many), I can hand on heart say one of the best cars I ever purchased was a 1986 V12 XJS in 1987!! I loved driving that motor & genuinely regret selling it when I did!! It obviously never had all the extras the cars of today have but it remains the only car firmly placed in my heart!! Many Thanks, Peace From London. 🙏

[@alanjacks9081]

I'm on my third V12 HE XJS, it's 1988 and I've driven it every week for the past 22 years without a mechanical problem. I had this one converted to LPG about 12 years ago. I pay 71p per liter. No reduction in performance and oil remains clean. The steering is excellent. Last year I had every bit of rust replaced with new metal. Nothing will tempt me to drive anything else!

[@davidclarke7728]

I had an XJS for 16 years and we travelled all over Europe, regularly serviced by Jaguar, never ever let us down

[@kevinlawton9074]

I liked the video, but there are a couple of points I would like to make: Firstly 'this was never designed to go around a track' does kinda ignore the Le Mans wins the XJS achieved against the 'Batmobile' BMWs. Secondly, the 'antiquated' braking and suspension system are well up to modern requirements provided they have been properly maintained. Thirdly, the handling is pretty darn good even by modern standards, provided the car is on the correct tyres - namely, Pirelli P600, which have really soft rubber. Put it on another good make of tyre, like Dunlop, Goodyear or Michelin and the XJS just does not handle well. The XJS is the most tyre-sensitive car I have ever owned.If P600 aren't available, then Pirelli P6000 will do at a pinch. Finally, by all means drive it spiritedly if you know how to handle a rear-wheel-drive car properly. Running on Pirellis, the level of grip can be surprising on a dry road. Perhaps it might be worth mentioning that the basic design of the XJS became further devleoped into the Jaguar XK-8 and the Aston-Martin DB7 as, like you say, by the 1990's it was a well-proven platform. Just my opinions, of course, resulting from 25 years of XJ-S ownership.

[@itsChris65]

Nice one kevin

[@MarriedToTheKGB]

I've always wanted one always admired its looks but never got around to it. One day lol

[@gf4353]

I beat you to the punch. I retired 5 years ago, and since then I've acquired a 1996 Celebration triple black convertible with 56k miles on it, a California car . looked intensely for 1. 1/2 years to find it. I also landed (one year ago) a signal red XJR-S, convertible 1993 U.S. market only in show condition. (one of 22). I think I'm good to go. !!!!!

[@johndavey72]

Hi Kevin . I think you've said all that needs to be said. I called mine the elastic band, it just kept on pulling like a train ! And of course it was the S.W.B XJ6 platform . There is one particular corner approaching the Teignmouth /Ashcombe turn off that you'd be brave to take above 90mph. I exceeded 120 in my "antiquated " V12 ! Mind you there was a funny smell in the cabin for a while!😂😂

[@kevinlawton9074]

@@johndavey72 Ah, yes, well, I would imagine the smell was probably due to water not draining out of the cabin air intake plenum chamber because the little drain hoses easily get blocked ! ;-) Eventually the dirty water will slosh out through the fans onto either your ankles or your passenger's --- depending on which way a fast corner goes.

[@ShanePleasance]

Had a 93 XJS. Two best days of my life were buying it and selling it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Shane Pleasance Haha

[@martinmcdonald4207]

I must remember that quote, excellent.

[@pmontgo656]

i bought a 1993 xjs new and still own it. I have spent less than $2k maintenance since new.

[@TheReid1233]

@@pmontgo656 how many miles? What problems have you had? I'm looking at getting one.

[@fred.171]

@@pmontgo656 does the problems package bearable?

[@jeffallinson8089]

One of the most beautiful cars ever designed, and that is a stunning example. Great upload!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching!

[@jeffallinson8089]

@LIVERPOOLSCOTTISH Not in my opinion, I far prefer the XJS over those 2.

[@Biggles]

People love you for driving these. I have a 1990 XJS 3.6 manual. The manual transmission transforms the car completely. Suddenly it becomes more like an enormous sports car. XJS with manual transmissions are rare and will be more desirable so are a good investment. They are more fun for the enthusiastic driver. I disagree on pricing. Cars pitched around £15 000 don't sell to average sellers, unless it's very low mileage, a convertible or a run out model in great condition. Pre-HE cars can be in a different league admittedly. Too many dealers price quite ordinary examples very high, and let the car sit and sit and sit. By the time they do sell, they will have developed problems from lack of use. NEVER let an old Jag sit for extended periods! If you are very careful £5000 can get a nice facelift XJS. Prices will gradually rise, but not as much as dealers are trying to tout. Most will need major restoration work by now. The one you were driving was knocking quite a bit even though it was shiny. The handling on these is great. The suspension is very rigid, yet the usual Jag comfort is not compromised. They have four springs and shock absorbers at the rear. The level of front end grip is impressive and the front suspension is remarkably sorted. You expect understeer due to the sheer bulk of the thing, but it just holds on. If anything it is slightly better than the beautiful XK8 that replaced it. On the motorways it's just excellent.

[@fearnsey8800]

Another friend of mine had a fairly rough V12 of the T rev vintage a manual it was a beast of a car

[@Biggles]

Paul Fearns Ooh a V12 manual must be mega! Would probably fetch quite a lot of money now!! I covet the XJR6 manual. I currently own an XJR6 auto, which will shortly take over duties from the XJS when it goes on sale.

[@tollyt7465]

I had an 87 V12 XJS with a Getrag manual fitted.. It completely transformed the car.. As did the AJ6 engineering custom manifold and custom exhaust😁.. I've got a 2005 XKR-s final edition with paramount performance upgrades now..

[@owenshebbeare2999]

Converted a 1994 V12 to a Supra gearbox, brilliant to drive. Always wanted a Lister supercharged one, but extremely rare.

[@ktclm0617]

Owned my 94 4L Coupe for 13 years now. Love it, love it, love it. Part of the family!

[@ericgeorge5483]

I remember the XJS being launched like it was yesterday. Absolutely everybody hated it. Even Jaguar executives wouldn't be seen dead in one, largely because it followed the E Type which everyone loved. I on the other hand adored the XJS. I loved the long bonnet, the buttresses at the rear and its V12. I loved its 150 mph top speed, fast for a tourer; in fact I loved everything about it aside from its woeful economy. If I was looking to get into classic cars (which I'm not) this is what I'd go for. The XJS is like a fine wine, it just gets better with age; I love them!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching! I agree :)

[@timhancock6626]

You could also only get it in three colours when it was launched as the BL paint process was all up the creek. You could have Primrose Yellow, White, or Maroon. Take it or leave it. It was a shambolic and embarrassing time for the British Motor industry, and it got worse.

[@ericgeorge5483]

@@timhancock6626 The XJS wasn't a shambles at all, it looks just as good now as it ever did.

[@timhancock6626]

@@ericgeorge5483 Yes it was. You could only get three colours and American dealers used to make sure new owners picked them up just before they closed up the shop as they often broke down on the drive home from the dealer. It was a total shambles. Quality control was non existent.

[@ericgeorge5483]

@@timhancock6626 I really don#t care, I love the XJS

[@0815funkmaster]

I have a 1995 xjs coupe...people don't even know what it is and keep looking...Its absolutely gorgeous...AND has OBD II

[@marcushull12]

I have a 1995 LWB sovereign as my everyday car and it has OBD II , I think jaguar had them 2 years before everyone else

[@mordys6305]

GTFO U can't find a 94+coupe here

[@0815funkmaster]

@@mordys6305 dude...I have a 1995 coupe XLS. It even has OBD 2. 1995 was the last year for the coupe version and 1996 for the more common convertibles

[@mordys6305]

@@0815funkmaster wow cant find one im the U.S. I have the 95 burgundy convertible I6 4.0

[@mordys6305]

@@0815funkmaster yes it helps my 1st car 95 honda accord 1st v6 had it too ahead of its tome

[@MrSchulta]

"I spend most of my time on autotrader". Finally, a kindred spirit!

[@runout57]

Nice video, I live in the USA and I own a 1994 XJS V12 2+2 convertible with 42,000 original miles. This car is perfect and has been garage keep it's entire life., These cars do require (like in any car) regular maintenance and that wonderful V12 is one of the greatest, smoothest and most dependable engines out there., I've never had to turn a bolt on it (regular service like in all car should be kept up with). To all you guys out there looking at one of these wonderful cars do not be afraid to get the V12 as I said earlier they are a wonderful and extremely dependable power plant. My wife and I take it out on the weekends and what a pleasure it is to drive, the handling is remarkable and the power and torch seams endless. Talk about turning heads, everywhere we go people gather round for a look at this beautiful cat, I do keep this car in excellent shape (heck I buff it out every spring) the car is black with a black top and tan interior. If you guys are looking for one of these wonderful cars expect to pay a good price for it, the nice ones are not cheap and be sure to get one that has been taken care of. Good luck in your search guys these cars are getting very hard to find in excellent condition, and as I said earlier they are not cheap.

[@Clarkecars]

very nice! I greatly miss my former 1995 ^.0 2+ in sapphire blue with Aerosport wheels and the trip computer. It had 69K miles when I reluctantly sold it to a doctor out west. But, I still have my SWB 1995 XJ12 in Sapphire blue also wearing Aerosport wheels. Truly wonderful cars.

[@jefforing]

I also own a 1994 2+2 V12 convertible. I bought it in 1999, so I’ve been the owner for 20 years. It’s an amazing vehicle! Gorgeous, powerful, comfortable.....all the things a Jaguar should be! Mine is bright red, and it’s my daily driver. Literally, I drive it 7 days a week. Not a day goes by that I don’t receive multiple compliments and/or questions about it. I bought a set of 18” Penta wheels (originally came on the 1999-2002 Jaguar XJR’s), along with a set of Conti DWS 255/45-18 tires, and it completely changes the look of the car!! I agree with others that you need to maintain the XJS regularly, but it’s a wonderful, exciting and rewarding car to own and drive, and the V12 is just spectacular!! I’m planning to keep mine forever!

[@johnmoore9862]

I’m happy for you guys, but I’m green with envy. Good luck & all the best 👍.

[@gavinm5750]

how goods the car at 100k miles

[@runout57]

@@gavinm5750 Hello Gavin, I couldn''t tell you about 100K miles as mine only has 44k, but If it's anything like the past I'd say she'll run forever just take care of her.

[@rrudydedogg3779]

I got an instant crush on the XJ-S when it first came out and in 2006 I finally got one.....an '87 in what appeared to be excellent condition with only 39,000 miles!!! I had heard the stories about the XJ-S being unreliable but figured I was talented enough to deal with anything that came along. I should have known better. Over the next two years I chased one issue after another and was astounded with how complex and overly engineered EVERYTHING was to do. One of the big issues with this car was with the rubber components as British law, when this car was made, did not permit synthetic components where natural rubber could be used and that 19 year old rubber was rotted and deformed everywhere from the engine and transmission mounts to the suspension bushings. And who ever heard of laminating friction surfaces onto disk brake rotors? Sure enough, the rear disks "delaminated" and what a joy they were to replace being mounted inboard toward the differential which, by the way, housed some two-hundred parts in itself. I do not exaggerate when I say I spent ten hours working on it for each hour I drove it and soon realized why it had such low miles on the odometer. I loved the car's looks and the V12, while an intimidating mass of lines, hoses and brittle wires not to mention nearly impossible to replace spark plugs, made smooth, effortless power. I would have swapped in a manual transmission and invested in some aftermarket wheels if the car would have stayed running long enough so I could save the money to buy those things but if it wasn't a harmonic balancer coming off the nose of the crank it was the AC taking a dive or the transmission mount breaking for no good reason or the starter relay signing off or...…….sigh.

[@robertwilliams-gg1zq]

The first XJS was one of my favourite childhood cars, after the Jensen Interceptor. Nice clip, really enjoyed it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I'd love an Interceptor. They've leaped in price recently too

[@danielearley5062]

@@HighPeakAutos The Interceptor is on my lottery bucket list, along with the batmobile from Batman Begins.

I had a ‘93 L reg 4 litre straight 6 auto, the same colour as this one. I bought it around 11 years ago when I was 26 for £2700, classic insurance was £200/£300...I absolutely loved it and wish I still had it, o sold it a year later for the same money and missed it immensely ever since. It drew a lot of attention and drove lovely, rocketing up in price now.

[@tollyt7465]

Actually the semi face-lift 91 car is a good car, but not as good as the 92 onwards.. And the Aj6 engine is pretty bullet proof, but, if it has say 150K plus miles on it, either pay pennies no matter if it has great service history, or walk away.. I say that for one reason only.. Its impossible to rebuild fully either the AJ6 or later Aj16 engine as jaguar stopped producing 95% of engine parts for both over 10 years ago.. Biggest rot issues can be unseen, especially on the face-lift cars, as the costliest issue is inside the windscreen scuttle.. A replacement would have to be found from a scrapper, or a full fabrication.. That issue alone can cost 2K.. You can't get a genuine windscreen for the face-lift cars either.. The ones you get from Pilkington are OK, but don't always fit properly, and that causes de lamination, and they're bonded in so non of the pre face-lift screens fit post 91 cars.. Even the convertible is a different size to the coupe.. As said in the review, no matter whether you buy from a dealer or privately, get a full report on the car.. Someone like KWE, Clark's etc will charge @200 quid and you will know exactly what you're buying.. I've owned 3 XJS and loved them all, with a further 3 in the extended family.. 77 V12 pre he, 87 V12 with a Getrag manual box, and a late 94 4.0 Aj16 were mine. Should never have sold the V12😞 Just buy the absolute best one you can afford..

[@usandutz]

Watching your laid back videos about old cars is almost therapeutical. I'd be a dream if you could find a first gen Arden XKR and make a video about it. It's such a beautiful machine!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! When I get one, I will. I keep looking for interesting cars to film with :)

[@tollyt7465]

I've got a 2005 final edition XKR-s with paramount performance upgrades.. Its an absolute monster😁

[@usandutz]

@@tollyt7465 Don't ever sell it.

[@robseignior4389]

This is a great summary. Take note those out there who crave such an animal. I have owned two of these cars.The first was a bucket of bolts - but I loved it despite costing me far more money to maintain than I was earning. Even converted it to a 5 speed manual.It was a pre HE. Caught fire one day and that was it.The second car was 6 years younger and a magnificent car to own. Underwhelming 3 speed auto though. Sold it to purchase an XK8.

[@pauldavies3764]

I had a 1984 V12 HE and coming home down M5,M50,M4 at 70 it was averaging 30mpg! Suspension bushes dont last long but small price for such comfort and V12 is silky smooth. Also bought '98 XJR which was faultless and very quick!

[@kingoneeyed3433]

Yes I always have a look on auto trader.......... straight after one of your videos.

[@ianprice7776]

King One Eye'd Me Too 😂

[@johngunning2123]

You're absolutely spot on when you say to make sure you are really passionate about a classic before you buy one. I know from experience that sometimes memories of cars that I had as a teenager don't match up to the reality of owning one now. The XJS had a terrible driving position because of the way the bulk-head used to rob the footwell. In fact, anyone with an amputated left leg would suit these cars. Most Jags were the same.

[@Treviscoe]

" The XJS had a terrible driving position because of the way the bulk-head used to rob the footwell. " Yes, Hubnut says the same in his recent test of an XJ-S; kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKu0lX6qnpici9U

[@ladyhock1954]

I am short 5' 4" and ❤ it. 😂

[@garethhanna9173]

The XJS has more class than anything Jaguar are making today. The late models with the 4.0 AJ16 engine are the best of the lot, part galvanised and built like a tank. You can waft around feeling like Lovejoy, even if visits to the petrol station are rather frequent.

[@FTFLCY]

You're so right about cars' move from aging modern car to classic status. Years ago a boss of mine had the V12. I would occasionally go on a day business trip up north (from London) and was always in shock and awe that we filled right up on departure then had to again before we returned. It was an amazing journey car but felt antiquated even then. The windscreen wipers were scratchy feeble things that did a weird half sweep before parking.

[@saddiqkhan5821]

I like your style of reviews. Calm and informative with a bit of humour. Not smug like Clarkson. I am watching a few of your vids as I want to purchase a car. Keep it up!

[@simoping]

Actually... I think the XJS is actually pretty actually quite good

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha you didn't read my description! I don't know why I said 'actually' so frequently. Only realised when I edited it

[@simoping]

Ha.. i did... just joining in. Love your reviews ... keep em coming

[@HighPeakAutos]

SiJRa When I was editing, I kept hearing me saying it more and more. Believe it or not I’ve cut out a lot of ‘actuallys’ 😂

[@mattkemp3727]

it really is not

[@Pete-z6e]

SiJRa actually I hadn’t actually noticed actually!

[@adamwoodward2003]

My dads always wanted an XJS with the V12 engine. His brother had one as a company car in the 80's, and to this day its the most comfortable car he's ever been in.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I bet! I've never driven the V12

[@adamwoodward2003]

@@HighPeakAutos he said it was like driving on air!!! 😂

[@peternicholls8529]

My dads got a xjs straight six convertible and it’s amazing done 135,000 miles with no flaws (touch wood). Thinking of getting a v12 coupe and adding a manual gear box with a nice exhaust. Sounds amazing with a good exhaust like murcielago

[@fredgrove4220]

I've had Jags for 30 years, and at the moment I have a XJ40 Gold, 3.2. A XF 3 litre V6 and a 1992 XJS 4 litre in Kingfisher, and I have them all serviced regularly, and they are all reliable.

[@HighPeakAutos]

fred grove Pleased to hear it!

[@stephendavies6949]

Hi again. I can relate to your comment regarding people's differing responses when driving different cars. When I'm driving my BMW 3 Series company car I'm treated as some sort of a lepper - to put it mildly - by other roads users, whilst when driving my 2005 Jaguar XK8 drivers fall over themselves to allow me the right of way and pedestrians smile and wave! Another excellent review. I had a V12 XJ-S for just over 12 months about 25 years ago and can identify with everything you said, including the huge steering wheel and lack of legroom. Would-be owners will do well to heed your advice to buy a "sorted" example as the electrics - especially the main wiring loom - are notoriously fragile.

[@mickyeverton]

Picked up my XJS V12 from DD CLASSICS today!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@HighPeakAutos]

Congrats!

[@kamran102]

I think it's way more beautiful than the E-type. One of the loveliest cars ever..

[@jehanzebkhan3699]

One of the most advanced gorgeously designed cars after Mazda 929 Luce 1998 model, however the red one in shown in this video when I see, totally amazed to see its shape and performance as well. Your efforts to promote old cars is appreciable, keep it up please.

[@Clarkecars]

The 3rd series XJS's were available with the 6.0 V12 (1994 - 1996). Post-1991 versions are known as "facelift" models. These have great improvements over previous models such as outboard rear brakes. I have owned them and loved them. The most potential for value increase is the 6.0 coupe and the 6.0 2+ cvt is next followed by 4.0 models whose value will be determined by mileage, condition, and color. I might add that XJ300 6.0 V12s are on the rise as well.

[@JonDingle]

I had a 1976 V12 in red way back in 1990. it was like driving around in a power boat. Fantastically comfortable and hideously thirsty it was ultimately brilliant. My second XJS was also a V12 in grey on a 1991 plate. Not the best but it was great to own. The example you have is fabulous but sadly I cannot afford it and it wouldn't do it any good coming down the track to my house! Great review young man.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you! Great choice :)

[@711honved]

My mate collected an XJS from Jaguar, Coventry & drove it to Cortina in Italy. It was used by Ian Ogilvy in the TV series The Saint. He'd previously worked on the first series with Roger Moore.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats interesting. Bet that was a nice trip

[@jackofmanytrades4396]

Partial to the second series XJ-S myself, since I have an '89. What you can you say about it? It's a beautiful, sleek, classy car. With a few British quirks, it feels more like a car built in '69. My only complaint is that the V12 version only had an automatic transmission available. I'd keep this car forever if it had a four or five speed manual.

[@samb3513]

I've recently bought one of these, a 4.0 from 1993. It has a slightly above average finish with an original spoiler and some after market chrome wheels. The response I get when driving it is absolutely staggering. You literally can't even take it out to put fuel in without expecting to have 2-3 conversations with strangers who fell in love with it as kids. When people see a new ferrari or lamborghini they try not to look, because they know the driver bought it to be looked it, but in an old XJS, people point and smile. If I ever need cheering up, taking it out and putting a smile on a few old fellas faces always does the trick. If you have been thinking of getting one of these then go for it, they only keep going up in price!

[@voituer]

Very good balanced review and imo you have picked the one to have. They are all good and in life everything is a compromise but here you have the updated body with the galvanised panels, not quite as pretty as the earlier shape but should last longer. This car also has the previous series bumpers which are still reasonably small compared to the larger plastic ones brought in one year later and used until the model died, unfortunately they make the xjs look a bit like a barge. 4.0 litres engine is the absolute best choice with no compromise on power. The v12 is stunning but in modern traffic it just burns fuel with little opportunity to give it a god blast. Good choice!

[@rorymckenzie8598]

Have owned a couple of facelift XJS coupes. Currently own a sapphire blue 1995 XJS coupe. Love the vehicle! Dependable, a class of its own, always a head-turner, fun to drive. ~ Great video !

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching! Nice choice of colour with the sapphire blue too :)

[@HarryHound1]

Interesting video, but the one to buy is the facelift car from 95/96 with a zinc coated body and the 4 litre AJ16 engine and much nicer inside and out. Michael

[@justinlinnane8043]

superbly presented! no guff or over the top performance . just an intelligent conversation with the audience . perfect!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate your comments :)

[@markmorris738]

Thank god he's British he can say jaguar correctly

[@hermanmunster3358]

Thats right, stateside cousins. It's Ja-gew-ar not Jag-wahr. Or just "Jag" if you want to keep things simple.😉

[@hermanmunster3358]

@Green Giant No problem. I don't even charge. (Well not until my batteries run flat, anyway.)

[@hermanmunster3358]

@Green Giant Maybe I do. My wife might be more grateful if I did. 😉

[@crs290]

@@hermanmunster3358 I think the Central and South Americans, who came up with the name, might disagree with you.

[@crs290]

The British didn't come up with the word "jaguar."

[@patrickburgess1107]

One of my clients had a ‘94 (it was some sort of special edition) drop top. It was a beautiful pewter blue, with navy cloth top, and leather upholstery. He bought it in California, when he was CEO of Fluor. He drove the car up until his death in 2011. His wife sold it A couple of years after he died, as it wasn’t being driven. It was stunning, and I’ve never seen another with that color scheme. One of my bucket list vacations, is to spend a summer in the British countryside, and do nothing but drive around in an XJS exploring country roads, listening to Sade, visiting public gardens, staying at quaint village Inns, and hitting up some pubs.

[@samconway2326]

I have always loved the shape of the xjs.

[@paulnewton1410]

Excellent review, drove a v12 xjs 32 years ago think that's what hooked me into Jags

[@FunkmeisterOfSedgley]

You missed the boat. Three years ago was the time to buy. Prices have quadrupled since then, purely because no one can afford an E-Type.

[@fidgetssailing4725]

I had an E-type I was restoring and gave it up for a house that we bought (figuring it wouldn't be exactly right that while my husband wanted to do something to improve the house, my answer would have to be 'I can't contribute as I'm dumping my cash into this restore') I always regretted that I sold it. It was a beauty. Recently I bought an XK and the second I sat in that car I felt like I was home again. It is also my favorite cars of all to drive. Yeah I'd buy another E-type in a heartbeat, but for knocking about on the weekends the XJS is a great one (disclaimer I'm 5'4 so I'd not have any of the issues of my knees hitting the steering wheel). It's a neat looking car and you can still get them for a few thousand - if you were willing to go to the 20k mark you can get really low miles. Personally, it is one of the few cars where I actually like or would be willing to have as a convertible.

[@v10cylinder]

Not quite. I own a 1972 E-Type V12 Convertible (manual plus A/C, which are really rare) but I wouldn't say I'm no one ;) But I also own a 1991 XJS V12 Convertible. I bought it three years ago, in spring 2016. Both are wonderful cars, though totally different. Both Jags were in very good condition when I bought them. But as I am a perfectionist I spent quite some money to make them perfect. To keep them at this level, regular maintenance is necessary. But I think it's worth it. They are wonderful cars.

[@fidgetssailing4725]

@@v10cylinder - The reason that A/C is rare on an E-Type was because of the small grill v the long front to let out air - so engines would overheat. Glad you're keeping it up , as I ripped out the A/C to prevent that overheating, but then I didn't have the V12 - I had the tri-carb.

[@v10cylinder]

@@fidgetssailing4725 I've put special ventilators and no overheating issue at all, even in summer.

[@MarriedToTheKGB]

I'm sure the economic fallout of the coronavirus will hit prices. I reckon they will drop a third at least in a year

[@mrhuffler9791]

I drove one of these ages ago, for a couple of hours. The two things that impressed me were how quiet and effortless it was, and the long l-o-n-g bonnet!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Mr Huffler It’s bonnet is very long. Makes small parking bays tricky

[@mickyeverton]

I'm on the verge of buying one!! 👍👍

[@snejok888]

always wanted one and never cared classics or not . it's just pure beauty

[@Saabinseptime]

So british, so classy and cool at the same time. On my wishlist definitely. Especially with this gorgeous colour

[@donlademann7578]

I'VE HAD MY 1992 XJS V12 FOR ABOUT A YEAR. I'M A SENIOR AND THE CAR IS ONE OF THE BEST INVESTMENTS I EVER MADE. I DON'T WANT TO EVER SELL IT. ITS A BEAUTIFUL, ELEGANT, SOPHISTICATED CLASSIC. NO WONDER FRANK SINATRA AND PRENCESS DIANA HAD ONE.

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

Just found your channel on the recommendations! Great video...I like your style of presenting...no nonsense...just say it as it is...!!!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching!

[@MarriedToTheKGB]

that's what i like too. American presenters give me nausea with their game and over hype. He is low key and that's what i like

[@chemicalreaction1519]

i have a friend who owned this thing... though the engine is 3.6 litre petrol, its so amazing that its not thirsty... the FC is quite amazing for an engine with that power...

[@peterkallon5496]

This is the car that made me fall in love with Jaguar as a teenager and I've coveted Jags ever since. Owned an X-Type (which I loved) and getting an XE/XF this year. I thought you could pick these up quite cheap (£5k) and then spend approx £13k making them more modern like ABS etc. Could you do a video on that to show the pros and cons of doing something like that?

[@tboneisgaming]

I owned a classic car for a few years. My main pieces of advice are make sure you find a specialist mechanic to look after it. Have a good storage facility over the winter months with a power point. Invest in a trickle charger to keep the battery in good shape. Give it a decent run occasionally and make sure you have decent brakedown cover. Joining an owners club and classic car insurance are a must.

[@paulwhite2533]

I have the triple black XJ-S V12 Convertible, a 1989....it's rather nice, and mine doesn't have rear seats

[@MrBerry67]

i can't decide between the coupe and the convertible

[@jongodsell88]

I have a 1988 v12 convertible and I would recommend this rather than a coupe. That is if are OK with the wind in your hair, the noise and fumes from those round about you when you have dropped the roof. A part from that they are lovely. You might also want to converting to a manual box.

[@MrBerry67]

@@jongodsell88 thanks yes I'm certainly ok with that

[@martinosmorlandez3549]

I love how genuine this guy is. Really refreshing

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@lloydvehicleconsulting]

Thanks for this absolutely first-class review, Matt! As a tweed jacket wearer (but without the cravat), I thoroughly approve of this gentleman's express.... I recall watching Wheeler Dealers over ten years ago when Mike Brewer picked up a fairly good example (admittedly not as nice as this one) for just £1000! They certainly have gone up a lot recently, but deservedly so. After all, this was the star car of both Return of the Saint and The New Avengers! We filmed a review of a Mk2 Granada (one of this car's contemporaries, albeit not the Series III) this week, so there must definitely be something of a classic car vibe in the air...

[@HighPeakAutos]

Lloyd Vehicle Consulting I remember watching that episode! They’ve shot Up since then. I’ll have to check out the Granada review! Cheers 😉

[@lloydvehicleconsulting]

@@HighPeakAutos, yes, it was a sort of light green colour on Wheeler Dealers! My wife and I have been checking prices this evening on Auto Trader (she likes luxurious old British cars too), and anything decent is at least £7,000. I think we will stick with something more affordable. The Granada Mk2 should be out next week, we also have an early Nissan Primera (number 80 off the Sunderland production line) and a 1995 Volvo 960 estate. Those should be ready by the end of the month. Look forward to seeing your Range Rover on the channel when it is ready too!

[@YARCHLRL]

Why aren't you at 1 million subscribers? I have just watched 1/2 of your post and, as a devoted "petrol head" I've never seen such honest, level, factual and engaging reviews on YT. Bravo......

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Maybe one day

[@johnpro2847]

2:02 yep.... got that feeling from my Rolls Royce on most sunday drives.

[@jefforing]

I really enjoyed your video, especially as an XJS owner. I’m in the USA (near Washington DC); Ive owned my 1994 XJS 6.0 liter V12 convertible for a dozen years now. I absolutely adore this vehicle! I’ll probably never sell it. I drive it every single day, unless it’s snowing. I now have about 110,000 miles. I bought it specifically for the V12; the 12 is very strong and it’s been super reliable. I’ve done many maintenance things to it over the years to increase its dependability. I get stopped several times each day by people with big smiles asking me about it. People really appreciate the styling. Anyway, thanks for your well-thoughtout review.....I agree that it’s a wonderful vehicle worth owning, but especially driving!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Jeff Oring Wow, great choice! Thanks for watching.

[@terencejay8845]

I've always thought the XJS is a beautiful car. (I shouldn't have sold my Daimler Double-Six, which is now worth five times what I sold it for)

[@civilwar5388]

I have 2 beautiful Jaguar XJS's a 85 convertible green and tan 6 and an 85 v12 white coupe. Always loved them as young man, now I'm 68 and have 2 for the last 5 years. Love them both and so do the people that see them. I only know of 2 others around.

[@paullees7111]

I'd love an XJS

[@darrenjohnson3486]

Mine's up for sale soon....and it's better than his!

[@kennethtalbott2233]

then get one quick.i just bought a nice convertible for just over 7k

[@Hopgoodd]

Excellent commentary and as a long term Jag owner and fan I believe your advice to the un initiated is quite grounded! That XJS is certainly an eye catcher.

[@davidlee4966]

From an investment point of view I would predict your money is better in an early XK8/XKR, prices I believe are at the bottom of the curve, and a much better engineered car and arguably a more attractive looking looking car when compared with an XJS.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Yeah you're right

[@kenem1946]

Thanks for your videos. I have a 1965 S-Type (manual gearbox), a 1974 Series 2 XJ6 and a 1993 XJ6 (XJ40) and love each of them. Although I have a 'daily drive' Honda Accord, I drive the Jaguars regularly and look forward to each outing. I've been thinking of a mid to late 2000 S-Type for a daily drive.

[@tepidtuna7450]

We had a 2000 S-Type 4.0L V8. It was an amazing car. Never let us down for 7 years, totally reliable. The 4.2L is the better engine though, with the ZF 6 speed.

[@johnpro2847]

2:55 You will certainly double your money ..but not in income. Old prestige cars are a love..not an investment for profit.

[@Clarkecars]

With 41 years in the business, I can disagree. However, you must understand the laws of collector cars. Three things drive value; nostalgia which is temporary, provenance and aesthetic value. To illustrate my point, Model Ts peaked in value over 30 years ago and most muscle cars peaked ten years ago. However, a Duesenberg SJ or a Ferrari Daytona are not getting cheaper to buy.

[@asensibleyoungman2978]

@@Clarkecars you won't make money on old cars. Continual maintenance and repairs, petrol, tax, insurance, tyres etc. If you want to make money buy a Ming vase and stash it in a bank vault.

[@Clarkecars]

@@asensibleyoungman2978 Thank you for the advice. After 40 years of collecting and selling automobiles, I have finally learned something.

[@asensibleyoungman2978]

@@Clarkecars It took you long enough.

[@jamiesut5866]

So true about being let out! I’ve had loads of old jags and everybody is so nice to you on the road for some reason!

[@marktiller7760]

Without lucas engineering parts , the xjs would of been a fantastic car. I think it's a classic

[@buzzcrushtrendkill]

I remember going to a car show in 1985 and seeing a XJS and XJ6 and really being enamored. The XJS for the V12, which wasn't the powerful monster I thought it was going to be. And the XJ6 for it's style.

[@adamwoodward2003]

10:03 There's an XK in the background.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha yeah I saw that. I didn't notice it when I was filming. Also it looks like they were doing a weird dance in the field next to it!

[@Dan_druft]

Yea I saw it as well funny how your brain can identify something so quick

[@shaneweightman]

Memory’s, the last big welding job I did on a car about 22 yrs ago looked exactly like this model , the same colour, front nr side chassis was rotting ,, I cut a piece out made a box section and welded in all with a stick welder , the owner was over the moon ,lovely different looking classic , cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧

[@ianyoud1]

Ha ha bitcoin hi couple of things many thanks for the recommendation of getting my gearbox oil changed my L322 feels like a new car second I've been stuck to my phone waiting for this xjs video it's an absolute stunner in the correct colour I would love to own one again but unfortunately I have an a4 allroad which I'm not a fan of and I have my pride joy which I love to bits, I didn't know you owned a classic something else we have in common, get it back on the road 😆 I hope so they are beautiful vehicles and becoming sought after thanks for the video it was a absolute pleasure to watch best wishes, ian

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks Ian! Good decision getting the box serviced by the way. I need to get the old classic on the road - I just never seem to find the time. One day! :)

[@ianyoud1]

@@HighPeakAutos probably because like me your always working I hope you get the time to put it back on the road have you seen the way prices are going on decent ones I would really love to see your classic range rover when and if you get round to it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats my plan, to get it going again and film some stuff with it

[@ianyoud1]

@@HighPeakAutos I hope so have a good evening best wishes Ian

[@densalbeach1]

Great review of a superb car. Can only agree the XJS is a future classic and the series 3 is the one to go for. The Ford years really improved Jaguar with development funding and technology. If I wanted a classic this would be my choice.

[@lash9400]

I squeezed my 6’2” frame in an XJS and I was downright uncomfortable in it. It has its charm but it ain’t for me

[@rastislavstefanik9367]

that´s why i bought 22 years old 4.0 XJR (X308) in traditional british racing green ... still looking so so amazing like this one ... well done your presentation

[@HighPeakAutos]

Rastislav Štefánik I’ve got one of those too. Mine is a 98 XJR in carnival red with cream interior

[@rastislavstefanik9367]

my one is 1997 in black inside ... 152000 km cca. ... bit crashed on left side, but repaired by previous owner who made great job ... but nothing is perfect ... 🏎💨

[@christophernewman5027]

"Attention's attention" 😂 Thanks for another cracking vid. By the way, how's that Yeti vid coming along?

[@HighPeakAutos]

Christopher Newman 😂 Thanks for watching! Still not got a Yeti! I’ll do one as soon as I get one I promise 😬

[@louisjames1062]

The second biggest avoidance doing a thousand miles a week next to foreign lorry’s?? Skoda drivers!

[@christophernewman5027]

@@louisjames1062 Yeah ? I hadn't heard that one...

[@nickloftus4188]

That particular XJS look stunning in that colour. And I agree they seem to be ageing well.

[@mrgt3201]

You can't beat a bit of tweed. Especially Harris Tweed. I'm not much of a classic car fan however if I had the spare cash I'd have a Citroen SM. There's no cooler car than that and I've only ever seen one on the road in the flesh so to speak.

[@davidmoynahan9585]

i'd be ok with either, however the SM is a stunning car, unique in so may ways. Yes I do have a Harris Tweed jacket from my 20's

[@insitetoursirelandltd.5795]

Love my Jaguar X351 for my tour company....wafting along. But this was a childhood dream. Thanks for showing it off again.

[@100ververis]

I loved this model so much for decades , I finally just got one .

[@deldia]

He’s using common sense to recommend the straight 6 - get this car in V12!

[@coldhell3580]

Agree, the V12 so smooth and more powerful.

[@pauldavies3764]

Make sure the v12 is the HE, high efficiency. The early engines drank petrol. Also be careful changing spark plugs on HE because they're in at awkward angle. Main rust point is crossmember under rad but easy to weld in replacement part. No traction control so be careful on wet roads!

[@ashleyweston5420]

Why would you buy a classic with half an engine? If your going to do it, do it properly and get a V12!

[@timhancock6626]

I agree with you absolutely as I had a couple of rides in friends 3.6 XJS and V12 about 30 years ago and was so nearly tempted into "Jaguar Land"..well a 3.6 anyway. In the end I was "given" an Alfa 164 3.0 24 Valve for £100 (cam belt gone) which dynamically was on another planet from the Jag and could do long distances standing on its head as well. The Jag is still lovely, but I'd always choose the 164 V6 over it if faced with the choice, and your rear seat passengers get a nice ride too, and the rust proofing on 164s was pretty good, though today you need to check everything very carefully of course.

[@Ryan-jr2cv]

You'll never make much of a profit as it'll cost money maintaining it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Ryan I’m not suggesting you go on dragons den with this idea, but you could run it for a few years and sell it for a profit. You’re right it might need some maintenance but so will every car

[@tonyquance3737]

I bought my Black on doeskin 1990 XJS V-12 in 1993. It had 106,000k, and had been leased by a lawyer for his frequent trips between Toronto and Montreal. It was not mechanically perfect, but a few hours in the hands of a caring Jaguar trained tech ironed out the niggles. I'd left the motor trade some years previously but still looked after the regular maintenance myself. Apart from the normal wear issues (brakes!!!), the car ran flawlessly until one day it started running on just one bank of cylinders. A rare fault, a crack in the rotor arm was causing one bank to short out. $63 for an oem part fixed that. I enjoyed many long trips down to New England from Toronto, and to other places. The car just ate up the miles and attracted a lot of attention, and I only remember one traffic ticket, in New York State. Unfortunately, I never had the use of a garage so the car was always outside. It was driven all year, and never failed to start on the coldest mornings, often down to -20C with clouds of black smoke. I had the car for 16 years, but it was developing floor rot. In 2009, with 230,000k on the clock, I finally released the car into the hands of a much younger, excited enthusiast whose father owned a restoration shop. Somewhere, I am sure it's still running well.

[@johnnywires943]

No Jag will ever reach the respect the E-Type had.Why,oh why did Jaguar stop making them?They could of kept facelifting it,Just like the Porsche 911 or even the little Golf.They still would have sold like hot cakes.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I agree! They should have done that. They should have copied Porsche and today we would have a lovely modern E-Type

[@johnnywires943]

@@HighPeakAutos Is there anyone around to put this idea to Jag?Such a shame nobody thought of doing that.

[@johnnywires943]

@@HighPeakAutos Great review by the way mate.Keep them coming.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@FloridaClay]

I had a XJS convertible of that vintage for a couple of years. Loved it, although it leaked like a sieve every time it rained despite a good top and installing new top weather striping.

[@atticusfinch8652]

I had a turquoise (!) metallic series 3 with chrome (!) alloys. It looked great, and drove me to see my girlfriend at the time every other weekend up to the Highlands and it was frankly one of the best ways of doing that, I could think of. A great British GT, and like you, I think a true future classic. I traded it in for my first Aston (DB7) and it was such a smooth transition as they of course shared underpinnings and the engine, with a supercharger added to the 7 of course. It was by no means overshadowed dramatically by the Aston, and in its own way looked as purposeful! Loved mine when I had it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Nice memories of the car then! I always loved the DB7, I've never had one though

[@jmj18462]

Thank you so much for posting this video. Back in the day, I owned a 1979 XJS Coupe (bright red/saddle leather), and currently own a 1999 Jaguar XJ8. I will be adding a 1990 XJS convertible to the fleet in the next few weeks! Can't wait to take a fall foliage tour in New England with the top down, and sweater on! Stay safe and all the best to you and your family!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for sharing! That sounds lovely

[@barryfarrell123]

by far the most precise accurate and interesting car reviewer......ever.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you

[@MrRicardo11]

I had a black V12 a few years back and I loved it apart from the fuel consumption , as it would fly past most things except petrol stations. Superb on the motorway and if you weren't careful it was easily a licence loser as you had no impression of your speed. I loved the way it started it was like started, it would make this whine as it gathered up all it's cylinders and then fired up with a reassuring subdued roar and you new had started something the size of three Mondeo engine's strapped together . However like most Jags you need to have deep pockets, and always let it time to warm up for 5 minutes before settling off. Especially in the V12. I sold mine for a modest profit after 3 months however I would have another one in a heartbeat. Nobody but the British know how to make a car like the Jaguar, and that always made me feel immensely proud of the car. One thing to remember though, don't be buying one if it's going to sit uncovered, make sure it's garaged as they don't like our dour climate.

[@jasonbudd2950Jag]

Great review fella, The XJS was my childhood growing up in the 70's so thanks for the memories . I'm a BIG Jag fan. I was a 7 year owner of Jag X Type 3.0 V6 Sport AWD manual . Now I'm proud owner of Jag XF, S 3.0 V6 TD Luxury... Always Black of course! First Diesel I've owned & very impressed with the power plant , very refined for diesel. Subscribed to your channel Pal 👍🏿 👍🏿

[@paulkazzer]

A friend had an XJS way back in 1980 Australian delivery. My memory was there were blocks on the seat runners that allowed the seat to be lowered and extend 5 cm or so further back. May have been deleted later but worth a check. First time viewer very happy to subscribe. Cheers.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I'll check that out! Thanks for subscribing :)