Jaguar XJ-S Convertible (1988-95)

HISTORY
After Tickford converted the XJ-S coupe into the Cabriolet with its partial roof structure, Jaguar enlisted Karmann to help develop its own full convertible for a March 1988 local launch. To retain the coupe's body strength without a roof, it was heavily strengthened with over 100 new panels and almost 50 modified ones.

In its first full year, XJ-S sales jumped tenfold over 1980 figures as the convertible injected new life into a tired 14 year old range! New Ford ownership funded the first major styling and cabin changes in 1991 with a badge change from XJ-S to XJS. A smooth AJ6 six cylinder version followed in 1992 and later formed the basis for the Aston Martin DB7.

By 1993, the convertible gained extra reinforcement rails for a stiffer open top structure then later that year came a new 6-litre V12 engine for a 260 km/h top speed, the highest since the first E-type. A token back seat followed in mid-1994, as the AJ6 4-litre six was swapped for the more powerful AJ16 engine from the X300 sedan. These rare final examples with the AJ16 six or 6-litre V12 rate amongst the world's best and most exotic convertibles, and certainly the most affordable, if you can stay ahead of the service costs.

PRICES
Around $50,000 is the median point for an outstanding low mileage later example with the tatty, high mileage early cars dropping below $20,000. The very best 1994-95 examples can nudge $70,000 when they cost $225,000 new.

CHECK IT OUT
V12 engine can be reliable and long-lived except Leyland past left plumbing and other components made up from bits and pieces for extra failure points. Ford purchasing clout simplified later engines and componentry for a big reliability boost. Service costs can match final quarter million purchase price so XJ-S usage must be rationed to match your service budget.

Some wealthy owners have a nasty habit of buying a car like an XJ-S after it has been serviced scrupulously by its original owner then using it for two-three years without spending a cent on servicing which leaves all the catch-up maintenance and resulting damage to the next owner. Used Jaguars and Porsches seem particularly vulnerable to this process so it may be worth getting a quote on outstanding maintenance before you agree on a price.

All perishable underbonnet items need to be checked for splits and leaks fortnightly. Miss a vital fluid leak and you could generate engine failures that will write off an older car. Power steering hoses and pump, drive belts, coolant and vacuum hoses all get terminally hot when there is so little airflow around the engine.

XJ-S was derived from 1972 XJ12 sedan leaving it 23 years behind the sedan range by 1995 even if vital mechanical components and electrics were upgraded. Technicians who know old Jaguars as well as new ones are hitting retirement age.

1988-91 models shared 1982 body details so make sure it is not an earlier aftermarket chop top, which are not uncommon. Pick the 1991 upgrade with its classy round dials, different bonnet and horizontal tail lights. From late 1993, look for the dual airbags and body colour moulded front bumper. Pick the last AJ16 six by the missing distributor.

Early V12 auto was a GM400 three speed, later 6-litre V12 came with a GM4L80 four speed, both known locally. Some six-cylinder models came with a Getrag manual but V12 was auto-only.

Grey imports can have critical rust in front and rear structure which can write an earlier car off. The four rear coil/damper units if neglected cause the car to bottom out badly and damage several low hanging components. The worst may have fatigue cracks in the rear suspension area. Earlier cars have inboard rear brakes, later cars have outboard brakes. Suspension bushes all round need to be kept fresh for superb ride and handling. Correct alloys are expensive if missing or damaged.

Lavish wood and leather interior suffers badly if overexposed to local UV levels. Centre console trim almost certainly will be crazed and leather on driver's seat bolsters can crack. Check operation of all cabin accessories and controls.

Check hood operation and panel fit especially heavy doors. Front ancillary lights which were deleted on the very last examples are often missing on smashed earlier cars.

Thanks to Jaguar specialist Tony Dockerty (03) 9499 1075