Seeking informed Jag thoughts...

[SpecialAgentJoe]

I'm considering acquiring an XJ-S next year. It depends on a few things and is based on sentimental reasons as much as anything else. My conundrum is that in an ideal world, I don't want it to lose too much value so I want to buy the right one. I'd get a decent, looked after, adult-owned model that has a good inspection to try to stay safe rather than a project. I feel I should probably buy a convertible but personally, I probably can't afford one and I don't really like rag tops because they're generally more expensive and, having had a few, I can't be doing with failing roof mechanisms, cracked canvases, replacements, leaks, vandalism, increased noise and particularly, a less stiff car with scuttle shake etc. Thing is, with regard to retaining as much of its valuable as possible, is it better to go for an earlier model or a later one? I know the earlier ones had electrical issues but for a car entering 'classic' status, is it better to go for an early model or to get a later, face-lifted model with gremlins supposedly ironed out? Also, looking around, there are some high milers out there - 150k and upwards...I'm guessing if I planned to sell it one day, a huge mileage wouldn't really help but would a FSH file help things? I think I'd try to get a 5.3L V12 but, failing that, a good 4.0 Celebration could be tempting because there seem to be a few around that have been well cared for although, obviously the latter are the newer ones. I'd welcome any input on this to help me make a more informed decision. Cheers

[SpecialAgentJoe]

Thanks for that advice. I hadn't really thought about the 3.6 too much but I guess that's still a good sized engine to pull the car along and probably more responsive than the bigger lumps. I think I'll look for the best one I can get for whatever money I have at the time regardless of engine size. Is the suspension the same on all models? I've only ever been in a 5.3 V12 Cabrio and couldn't get over what an amazing ride that thing had - I just don't want a Cabrio now though.