Alex Robbins is contributing editor at Telegraph Cars where, as well as responding to readers’ queries, he also contributes reviews of new and used cars, together with articles on buying and selling.
His knowledge of the used car market informs his many buying guides relating to the best buys in particular sectors, with an emphasis on value for money. Every week he will answer your questions on buying and selling, as well as solving your car problems, whether consumer or mechanical.
Do you have a motoring dilemma you’d like our expert to solve? For consumer and used car advice, or car faults, email CarsAdvice@telegraph.co.uk and include your subscriber number. This week’s question…
Dear Alex,
My son has decided he would like a classic car. He has in mind an early 1990s Jaguar XJS and is thinking of spending no more than £12,000. His and my knowledge of these cars is very limited. What, if anything, should he be particularly aware of?
– GS
Dear GS,
A This sounds like a good idea to me. The XJS still feels a little undervalued at the moment and, in my opinion, it has some way to appreciate yet. The second-generation models from 1991 onwards are the best of the bunch, with lots of fairly substantive changes that makes them a more hassle-free ownership proposition than the older models.
For example, Jaguar galvanised several of the body panels that used to rust like crazy on older models; the floorpan was built in a more straightforward way, too, which made it less liable to go frilly. The newer engines (a 4.0-litre straight six and a 6.0-litre V12, up from 3.6 and 5.3 litres respectively) are better, while the inboard rear disc brakes were switched for outboard items that are much easier to check and work on.
Your son’s budget won’t stretch to lower-mileage examples or one of the 1994-on run-out Celebration models, which command a premium, but he should still be able to clinch a good 1991-1994 black-bumper car. I’d go for a 4.0-litre: more affordable to run than the more complex V12 and barely less potent.
These later XJSs might rust less, but that doesn’t mean they don’t rust at all, so check carefully, especially on the scuttle beneath the windscreen – a common rust spot, and costly to repair. The AJ6 engine should be pretty dependable and run smoothly; avoid high-mileage cars with rattly timing chains and also watch for failed head gaskets. Suspension knocks are reasonably common and not horrendous to sort, but be sure to haggle hard if there are untoward noises.
Electrics can be glitchy, so check everything inside works correctly, while if the wood veneer has flaking or cracks, budget for a fairly costly repair. And as always, a good sheaf of invoices as evidence of careful, regular maintenance is a must.
