Image of 1988 Jaguar Xjs, sourced from www.beverlyhillscarclub.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Elegance of the 1988 Jaguar XJS

The 1988 Jaguar XJS is not merely a car; it's a statement of luxury and performance wrapped in a sleek British design. Born from the storied halls of Jaguar Cars Ltd., this grand tourer emerged as a symbol of opulence during an era of automotive transition. Its lineage can be traced back to the iconic E-Type, and yet, the XJS carved out its own distinct chapter in the annals of motoring history. One notable moment in its timeline was when it became a canvas for renowned coachbuilders, transforming it into limited edition convertibles before Jaguar officially offered a factory version.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1988 Jaguar XJS exudes timeless elegance with its long hood, flying buttress C-pillars, and the subtle hint of a power bulge hinting at the prowess beneath. The interior is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring sumptuous leather seats and rich wood veneers that exemplify British craftsmanship. For its time, the XJS was at the forefront of technology with advanced features like digital trip computers and sophisticated climate control systems. The color palette ranged from classic British Racing Green to the more flamboyant Signal Red, with each hue complementing the car's graceful lines. Among body styles, the V12 coupe remains iconic, though later convertible models also captured hearts.

Historical Significance

The 1988 Jaguar XJS made an indelible mark on automotive design with its blend of luxury and performance. It set itself apart from contemporaries by offering a V12 engine at a time when such powerplants were reserved for ultra-exotic machines. Its lasting influence can be seen in how it bridged the gap between sports cars and luxury coupes, paving the way for modern GT cars.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1988 Jaguar XJS didn't just look fast; it delivered on that promise. With a top speed approaching 150 mph and capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds, it was among the quickest grand tourers of its day. On winding roads or when gliding over imperfections in the tarmac, the XJS maintained composure, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. Driving this car was an auditory delight as well; the V12 engine's symphony was as intoxicating as it was distinctive.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1988 Jaguar XJS cherished it for various reasons—some enjoyed its grandeur as a daily driver while others reveled in its show-car status or even occasional track use. Maintenance requires dedication, as with most classic cars, but a well-kept XJS is relatively reliable by vintage standards. Accessibility to parts and knowledgeable mechanics can make ownership smoother for those willing to invest in its upkeep.

Fun Facts

The XJS has graced many garages of celebrities and even royalty. It has held records for endurance runs and has been both praised for its smooth ride and critiqued for its weighty feel compared to pure sports cars. Its appearances in films and television have cemented its status as an icon of pop culture.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors find that an immaculate 1988 Jaguar XJS can command prices ranging from $15,000 to well over $30,000 depending on condition, mileage, and provenance. While production numbers were not exceedingly low—over 115,000 units across all years—the best examples are becoming rarer on the market. As interest in '80s classics grows, values are appreciating steadily for pristine or unique variants.

Conclusion

The 1988 Jaguar XJS stands as a testament to a bygone era where grace and pace were intertwined in automotive design. It remains an alluring prospect for collectors seeking to capture a slice of British motoring heritage that continues to turn heads and stir souls with every purr of its V12 heart.

1988 Jaguar XJS Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each-BN 2Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each