in the next few months i want to buy an xj-6 (1994-1997)to use as a second car. if things go as planned, i'll buy an xjs early next year. other than the obvious (service records, if possible, compression check, etc) what else should i be looking out for. within that range of years, is the newest, 1997 the most desirable?

I've been watching ebay, and although i buy lots of things for my business there, i don't see myself trusting a long distance purchase.

Thanks, Andy

'59 MGA (sold)

Submitted by gmdmfc@hotmail.com on Tue, 03/14/2006 - 19:59

I purchased my 1995 XJ6 December of 2004. I love the car.

I agree with all of the comments above. I would have a mechanic look it over. Even an oil change at a Jaguar dealer will uncover issues if there are any.

There was a comment above about changing the timing belt. The 3.2 and 4 liter sixes have timing chains with tensioners.

Certain parts are very expensive and some are aligned with German brands. If you do alot of your own work, go for it. I do most of my work and find the car pretty easy to work on.

Best regards,
Greg D.

1995 Jaguar XJ6 - Kingfisher Blue - 113K miles and still purring

Submitted by asimko@netsolnj.com on Mon, 03/13/2006 - 20:07

thank you both for your help. i still have mixed feelings about the year, i like the look of the headlights on the '94, but will probably choose a '96 or '97 .

thanks again

Submitted by v12-vdp@shaw.ca on Sun, 03/12/2006 - 12:17

All good comments and valid advice(with one exception). The late xj6 is a superb car. But one correction: Ford didn't do any of this, Jaguar did, with money from Ford. It is a tenacious myth that Ford designs, engineers or builds Jaguars. It doesn't. It owns Jaguar Cars and oversees operations. But it does NOT design, build or engineer them (and that is much to their credit).
A visit to the Jaguar factories will make that clear quite quickly, and if you mention Ford there, you will be put straight immediately.

Gregory Andrachuk
1992 Series III V12 Vanden Plas
1966 Mark 2 3.8
2002 X-Type

Submitted by charlesmiller6… on Sun, 03/12/2006 - 11:49

Andy:
I did some research before I bought my Jaguar. I decided on the 1996 XJ6 model for the following reasons:
- Many of the bugs had been worked out by Ford to make this year a very reliable edition both mechanically and electrically.
- The XJ6 has been in production for many years and seems to be the most solid of all models from a reliability stand point.
- Ford cut back on the exterior trim package and some internal saloon features on the 1997 XJ6.
- Gas mileage is excellent. I get 20 mpg city, 24 mpg highway.
- 1996 has the rounded and sculptured headlights. Not so the 1994 model.
- I would strongly recommend against purchasing on eBay. Join a local Jaguar club and ask around. Send emails to the other Jag clubs as well and make inquiries. I would check out the Jag dealerships as well.
- Have a reliable mechanic at your local foreign car repair shop go over the car before purchase. Pay close attention to the calipers, bushings, shock absorbers, and all belts especially timing belt if car has over 90K miles.
I love my Jag. Good luck.
Carol
1996 XJ6 60K miles