More than two decades after the Jaguar XJ-S went on sale,
its replacement was revealed the XK8. Long overdue and promising so much that
the XJ-S had always failed to deliver, the XK8 had it all; a high tech specification,
gorgeous looks, huge performance plus a great driving experience. Time has also
proved that build quality and reliability were way above Jaguar’s usual
disappointing levels, but that hasn’t stopped the XK8 from becoming a modern day
classic bargain.
Jaguar XK8 Specialties
Front View
For just $6,730.83 you can pick up a fair coupé, and it
won’t be a money pit if you do your homework. Offered in coupé and convertible
forms, the XK comes in normally aspirated (XK8) or supercharged (XKR) guises.
Even the entry level model can do 155mph, yet 30mpg is attainable thanks to the
relaxed V8 never having to break into a sweat. Throw in ample cabin space for two,
plus a large boot forget the rear seats though and the XK8 becomes even more
appealing.
To cap it all, the XK8 comes packed with kit that makes life
so much easier, such as antilock brakes, twin airbags and a topnotch security
system, along with climate and electronic stability control plus powered seats,
mirrors and windows. While those things could all go wrong, most XK8 owners
have found their cars to be pretty reliable; this really is one of the newer
breed of classics that allows you to have it all and all for a few grand if you
shop around.
History
1996: XK8 is introduced with a 290bhp 3996cc V8 engine. From
launch, buyers can choose between a coupé or convertible, both of which have a
155mph top speed. Powering the XK8 is the all new all alloy AJ-V8, which is
mated to a five speed ZF automatic transmission as standard.
Jaguar XKR XK8
Mesh Grille
1998: For those wanting junior supercar pace, the XKR goes
on sale, again in coupé and convertible forms, with a 370bhp supercharged 4.0 litre
V8. Sexy bonnet louvres and a rear spoiler distances itself from the cheaper
XK8. Also standard fare for XKR buyers are CATS (Computer Active Technology
Suspension), bigger brakes and revised steering. Completing the package are
bigger wheels and tyres, a mesh grille and discreet badging.
2000: The XKR based Silverstone special edition is
introduced, with silver paintwork, 20 inch alloys and Brembo brakes. Just 50
are made, in both coupé and convertible forms.
2001: The 100 special edition, based on XKR, has nine spoke
BBS alloys, anthracite paintwork, Recaro seats and alloy interior detailing.
2002: XK8 gains 19 inch ‘Apollo’ wheels as standard; the
XKR 20 inch ‘Paris’ alloys and Brembo brakes
Aug 2002: A welcome model refresh brings an array of
changes, most notably the fitment of a lustier 4.2 litre V8 in place of the
previous 4.0 litre unit in XKR guise, there’s now 370bhp on tap. This facelift
also brings a new design of xenon lighting.
Cockpit only needs
a small steering wheel, rev counter plus oil pressure and cooler gauges
2003: The special edition 400 arrives in showrooms, based on
the XKR and featuring Alcantara seat inserts plus black, silver or grey
paintwork.
2004: The XK8/XKR Premium arrives in coupé or convertible
guises, with standard xenon lights, 18 inch alloys and rear spoiler. Parking
sensors are now standard for all models.
2005: The S limited edition has a new choice of interior and
exterior colour schemes plus 19 inch alloys.
