1997 Jaguar XJ Vanden Plas

Sold: $11,995

Subscribe to our mailing list

* indicates required
Please select the vehicles you're interested in:

Stock #5555

This British barge isn't typically something you'd find here on the lot at Japanese Classics, but a VIP-styled saloon was too cool to pass up and carefully snuck its way on the boat. Our 1997 Jaguar XJ bears the X308 chassis designation and came equipped from the factory with the "Vanden Plas" trim. Sporting a buttery smooth inline-6 powerplant and smooth-shifting automatic transmission, the Vanden Plas is nothing to scoff at. With only 83k verified/documented miles this Jag blends right in with the rest of our low mileage JDM inventory and looks the part as well. Originally finished in a dark blue metallic, the vehicle was refinished in a crisp coat of one-off Dove White. The exterior is accentuated by a sleek JDM FRP aero. Consisting of a front lip, rear lip, and side skirts this slick sedan stands out from everything else on the road. This low-slung saloon is complemented by an abundance of chrome trim, privacy tint, and a fitting set of OZ opera alloys. For a 25-year-old vehicle the exterior shows remarkably well, with only a few chips and dings present from normal use. Whether you're an existing euro enthusiast looking for some new digs or a fan of VIP styling in general, this Japanese Jag is one Classic that shouldn't be overlooked.

The interior is spacious, comfortable, and offers all the quality and technology you've come to expect from the Jaguar name over the years. The seats are trimmed in a durable yet supple tan leather, with white leather piping. Accented by a tan dash and wood trim, the interior certainly succeeds in setting the luxury car expectation and the next pilot should be extremely satisfied with the condition of the materials. The dash shows well with no cracking or peeling, and the seats are in good nick save for some expected bolster wear on the driver's seat. The cockpit is an excellent place to be, with a power telescoping steering column, dual SRS airbags, and a unique driver-centric switchgear placed conveniently behind the steering wheel. With dedicated access to multiple headlight and wiper settings, the system is easy to use, and more importantly, works like a charm. The digital automatic climate control is fully functional, blasting Cold A/C and hot heat at the push of a button, and the OEM audio slot has been replaced with a single DIN Panasonic upgrade. Power amenities are extensive, and 4 way power seats, power windows, and power mirrors remain in good operation, although we must note the moonroof has given up the ghost. Designed to chauffeur precious cargo, the XJ features spacious rear seating with two stowable tray tables a-la your favorite private airliner. Overall the cabin shows well, was clearly cared for by its previous Japanese owner, and should be ready for car shows, date nights, and highway cruises when stateside.

Flip the tilt hood forward and you'll reveal this Jag's ferocious 4.0 inline-6. Championed by enthusiasts as being responsive yet extremely refined, parts are abundant, as this motor was shared with Jaguar's US offerings, and our trained technicians have performed a fresh oil/filter service and installed a new 12v battery in the rear to ensure that this beautiful barge starts up and idles smooth every time. Acceleration is abundant, as one would expect, and it's clear that this drivetrain received only the best of British engineering, as shifting is effortless compared to other jolty 90's automatics we've driven. Power steering is light and the brakes are capable enough to slow this heavyweight down in a hurry. This beautiful boat flourishes on the highway, but four brand-new KYB shocks paired with aftermarket lowering springs ensure that it can do business on the back roads when needed. A fresh diff service was also performed in-house, getting this XJ on track for scheduled maintenance, 4 new wheel bearings were installed. To complete the reconditioning, we even mounted and balanced 4 new tires to keep this ride comfortable and quiet for tens of thousands of miles to come!  

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.

Click to read more

Contact for More Information

    Name*

    Phone

    Email*

    Comment