Talk Morgan Forums Community Vehicle Talk (non-Morgan) Anyone had an XJS?

Never owned a 7 Series but have had plenty of BMW products and bar one problematic X5, they have all been very well built and reliable.

However, perhaps I could throw another option into the mix - have you considered an Audi A8?

We've had two - one V8 and one W12 - both lost us 50% of their value in the first year (so would have been a great 2nd hand buy for the next owner), but were great daily-drivers, had silly amounts of toys and imho, look very nice (not too flashy but set the right tone).

Just a thought

I could second this recommendation. I owned an 04 4.2 V8 and found it to be a thoroughly pleasant experience. Like Simon mentioned, I bought mine preowned and lost very little when I sold it as the bulk of the depreciation had occurred in the first 12 months. If you are considering a BMW 7 or a Merc S, I really believe you should at least test drive an A8

Out of all of the abovementioned cars, Bmw would be my choice, its solidly built and roomier than an A8(used to owned 54plated 4.0tdi),servicing would defo be cheaper for the BM too.

10k jag would probably cost you an arm and a leg to run, Mercs quality had deteriorated over the years(although recent models have improved somewhat...)
However, if the badge on the bonnet is not a priority, I would go for brand new Honda diesel or a Toyota Prius, both cars very well built and cost bugger all to run.

I thought you could only own a Prius if you were a hollywood eco celeb?

Well I have gone and done it.
52 plate BMW 745i with all the toys in black metallic on 19" rims.

Did look at A8's but the 4.2 V8 was getting into daft money for a daily runabout considering it's only going to do around 8k a year.

I do like the 7 - it's grown on me in terms of looks throughout it's life. DRives very well, good sharp handling for a big car - felt it was on a par with the Jags I've tried) plenty of power on tap from a very well respected 4.4l v8 and a boot big enough to cover just about all eventualities.

Plus this one has the luxury of a serious 17 speaker hi fi, heated ventilated seats, soft closing doors, tv etc etc. Hope all the gadgets keep working!

So there you have it - BMW benefit from me having a Morgan - as as I liked the engine so much I bought it in a different car!

Should pick it up later in the week after it's had a proper polish. Having see the detailing on the other cars in their forecourt (this one is not done in the photos) I'm seriously considering getting the Morgan done by them.

It's a big ol barge and theres no getting away from it, but finally it has become necessary to have proper everyday transport.. Having said that if the summer is nice it's going to sit int he sun gently fading while the aero gets used. Had a great run out this morning through the chalfonts and found some lovely windy stuff that was fun without requiring over zealous application of the right boot...

Hi Rich

That looks lovely. I totally agree with you that you get a lot for your money. I had an older shape 740i and loved it as a luxo-barge. And as you say the looks have grown on me also, but then you have bought for what it does and offers anyway!

Enjoy it but dont forget the Morgan

BtG

Excellent car Mr_Tony (and black is THE colour for the Seven imho) and one that should fill all the gaps that you hope it will. Are you able to extend the BMW warranty as the only downside to these cars is that when the electrics go wrong, they can cost a fair whack to fix?

It's got a full BMW service history, not sure if the BM warranty is still active though. Dealer is throwing in an AA warranty which is reasonable - not the same as factory backup though.

The weather is taunting me now - I'll spend the money on the sensible car and not get to use it for 6 months if it stays this sunny. Off out for a spin in the Aero again this morning, it's just too nice to ignore the opportunity

Great mile muncher Rich and black is the colour imho!

(although now you are in the running for Biggest Pimp Award on the forum - it's between me and my black Rangie and you with the black 7!)

Rangie is pimptastic there is no doubt.
7 does look a little russian mafia, but as long as I stick with th stock 19" and don't go trying to run 22" chrome spinners I should be ok...