To all that have discussed performance upgrades in the past, I thought I would exchange my results. I have an 87 XJS that until this year was totally stock. When I had to replace the radio, it started a whole new direction for this car. I just installed a complete new stainless AJ-6 engineering exhaust system with the Growler intakes. Previous performance had the car doing 0-60 in low 8's we are now showing high 6's. A considerable performance increase, as well as the very pleasing exhaust note. The Growler's were custom built .25 bigger bore to better fit the AJ-6 equipment. I am going to complete the AJ-6 upgrades with the EFI chip and manifold upgrade during the winter months, and after speaking with the folks in Manchester, England, I am optimistic that we can get this car really performing, I'll keep you guys informed after the work is complete.

87 XJS V12 Racer

Submitted by ozjag1@aol.com on Thu, 11/03/2005 - 21:21

Gday Steve,

I have owned this car for seven years, and was very careful to keep it all original, it is in excellent shape with low miles. However, I needed to replace the radio after a windshield leak destroyed the original, and I wanted an eclipse, for the quality. Well; once the car was no longer original it got me thinking, and then after watching Overhaulin' one night, I made the decision to create my own british version of a classic sports rod.

I am looking around at wheel replacements right now, I am thinking 17x8 with the F1 tires, should keep the classy lines of the car, with a sporty look, without making it look like a south of the border, low rider.

The AJ6 chip and manifold upgrade is next, for performance, and I am very interested in changing the rear end to the higher ratio for more useable power down low. I have certainly considered the manual gear box with the lighter flywheel, but will wait until the other work is done.

Photo's will be forthcoming, nice to have the dialog, take care, J.
87 XJS V12 Racer

Submitted by NE52-32043 on Thu, 11/03/2005 - 10:50

Jason,

Opening up the breathing will definitely increase power and performance. Please post some pictures of the new systems in the gallery, and let us know what else you end up doing.

One other major modification you should consider -- a 5 speed manual transmission. I've driven a couple of cars that have had that done, and it makes a HUGE difference in the power and feel of the car. The old 3 spd slush-box just doesn't cut it.

BTW, it's great that you're doing all this, but please explain -- how does all this flow from changing the radio???

Steve Weinstein
'70 XKE FHC, 69 XKE OTS
Former '89 XJS Coupe owner