Introduced in 1976, the Jaguar XJ-S quickly became a popular choice for American car shoppers looking for a V12-engined coupe without breaking the bank. However, despite its luxurious features and powerful engine, the XJ-S was plagued with mechanical and electrical issues that made it difficult for owners to maintain. This article will explore the history of the Jaguar XJ-S, its performance, pricing, and the challenges faced by third or fourth owners in keeping it running.
Jaguar XJ-S: A History of Luxury and Power
The Jaguar XJ-S was introduced in 1976 as a successor to the iconic E-Type, featuring a V12 engine that delivered impressive performance on the road. Based on the XJ sedan chassis, the XJ-S boasted a sleek design and luxurious interior, making it a popular choice among luxury car buyers.
Performance and Features of the XJ-S
Equipped with a DOHC 5.3-liter engine that produced 262 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque, the XJ-S was a powerhouse on the road. Its performance surpassed that of its competitors, such as the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC coupe and the Chevrolet Corvette.
Pricing and Comparison to Other Luxury Coupes
With an MSRP of $36,000 in 1985, the Jaguar XJ-S offered a more affordable option for V12-engined coupes compared to its Italian rivals, Ferrari and Lamborghini. In today’s dollars, the XJ-S would cost around $107,170, making it a competitive choice against other European luxury coupes like the BMW 635CSi and the Porsche 928S.
Challenges Faced by XJ-S Owners
While the Jaguar XJ-S provided a luxurious driving experience, it was notorious for its expensive-to-fix electrical and mechanical problems. Third or fourth owners often struggled to keep their XJ-S in running condition, leading some to swap out the V12 engine for a small-block Chevrolet V8 as a more affordable alternative.
The Iconic Legacy of the XJ-S
Despite its challenges, the Jaguar XJ-S remains an iconic symbol of luxury and power, blending art and machine in a unique way. This was showcased in British Leyland’s iconic TV commercial featuring a Playboy Bunny climbing into the XJ-S, highlighting its appeal to luxury car buyers.
In conclusion, the Jaguar XJ-S was a groundbreaking vehicle in the luxury car market, offering American car shoppers a more affordable option for a V12-engined coupe in 1985. While it faced challenges in terms of maintenance and reliability, the XJ-S remains a classic car that continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike.