Faults:

I bought my 1999 Vanden Plas in 2003 with 50k miles on it. It was just what I was looking for. I shopped on the Internet for 6 months and it finally appeared. I flew to L.A. from Reno, NV and drove it home. Once I hit the desert, I opened it up to @ 155mph. That's the last time I drove it that fast.

Overall the car has been good to me. This is my third Jag, so I expected to have some sort of extra problems involved with it.

There was a problem with an oil leak covered by warranty.

At 80,000 miles the timing chain clips malfunctioned and the limited performance light came on. I drove it home in limp home mode and called the dealer in Sacramento who told me to have it towed in and the bill would be $3,000. I took it to the local guy who works on jags and he charged $1700.00 A couple of months later a rear wheel bearing went out. $1300.00. That's it.

All told, this is a great car. My clients are always impressed, the ladies love it and it's all paid for. I am a happy camper. I must admit that I don't drive it in the snow.

It's now 10 years old with 85,000 miles. It's got custom 20 inch wheels and Z rated tires, other than that it is and will remain stock. If you can find one used that has been treated right. Buy it.

Jim Elliott Reno, NV.

Faults:

Switch on driver's seat broken. Minor thing, but so far impossible to repair without maximum costs.

General Comments:

I have read so many negative comments, I had to add a positive one. I drove a 1995 VDP prior to buying this 1999 VDP. Yes, regular and correct maintenance is necessary and is more expensive than most vehicles. But they don't take the space shuttle to the local garage for engine work, do they? I am totally pleased with the cars I have owned that were made by Jaguar. It is fast, powerful and handles like a true sports car, but rides like a luxury car should. Something might happen tomorrow that changes my mind, but until then, I am just going to sit back and enjoy the ride.