What is the cheapest Classic Car Insurance for a Jaguar XJ-S?

Insurance quotes

The following fully-comprehensive insurance quotes are based on a Jaguar XJ-S 5.3-litre auto owned by a 40-year-old Cambridgeshire-based man in full time employment. He is named driver on another car and has clean UK licence. Mileage is limited to 3000 a year and the car is kept garaged overnight.

Replacing the Jaguar E-type was never going to be an easy job, but the XJ-S was given the worst possible start in live. Controversial styling instantly turned the public against it, and launchhing a gas-guzzling V12 in the middle of an oil crisis and 1970s social unrest was no-one's idea of a smart move. That said, the XJ-S is a fine car. It's aged well and its days of languising in the sub-£1k classifieds are over. It can still rot, and it's still thirsty, but as car for high days and holidays it makes perfect sense. 

Can I get it on a classic policy?

The Jaguar XJ-S is considered a classic by most insurers.

What are the benefits?

As well as being with a specialist insurer, a classic policy will often offer benefits such as limited mileage discounts, free European cover, agreed valuation and club member discounts

How much are they worth?

The most desirable XJ-S is the convertible. Expect to pay around £16,500 for the very best example from a dealer, while you should find a similar car in the classifieds for just over £12,000. One that still needs a few jobs doing should be about £5500, while a runner in need of some TLC could be about £3250 . 

What to look for when buying one?

Rust is the XJ-S’s worst enemy so closely inspect the car for rot. Rear arches often go and are repaired with filler and you'll also need to inspect. the area around the radius arm’s forward mount (near the back end of the sill). V12s can also suffer from poor maintenance as the location of the engine makes it hard to service the cylinder bank nearest the bulkhead.

How can I lower the cost of my insurance

Insurers often offer discounts if you’re a member of a classic car club. When it comes to the Jaguar XJ-S, there are a range of clubs to choose from. The largest are probably the Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club (https://jec.org.uk/) and the Jaguar Drivers' Club (www.jaguardriver.co.uk). You could also get yourself a discount by keeping the miles down. If you've recently passed your test, consider taking a PassPlus, IAM or other driver qualification - some insurers will chip a bit off your premium if you do. Keeping your car garaged is also another good idea.

What about modifications?

Always tell your insurer about any modifications to the vehicle - some modifcations such as security systems or tracking devices can reduce your premium. But if your insurer knows your car is modified, you'll most likely get like-for-like cover so you won't be out of pocket if you need to make a claim.

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