1998 Jaguar XK8 Coupé

Background:

Jaguar launched its new XK model to replace the outgoing XJ-S at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1996. Striking, modern styling was combined with Jaguar’s first V8 engine since the Daimler 250 of the 1960s, and both the new machine and its AJ-V8 power unit won critical acclaim and public acceptance from the start.

Sharing its platform with Aston Martin’s equally well-received DB7, the svelte newcomer from Browns Lane was available in both 2-door coupé and convertible form, the newcomer’s 32-valve 4-litre V8 providing the ideal blend of refinement and performance.

Sitting on 17-inch alloy wheels, it was purposeful and handsome, its long nose and open grille echoing the E-Type, without copying the earlier car’s styling in a retro manner. Traditional Jaguar customers were not disappointed inside the cosy cockpit either; luxurious leather trim with a burr-walnut dash were standard and made the XK a fine place to spend time. Jaguar fan Jeremy Clarkson referred to the cabin as 'Blenheim Palace' - fulsome praise from the legendarily cynical presenter.

The car:

First registered in 1998, this XK8 coupé was purchased from Jaguar and Daimler Lancaster, Kent and remained within the same family until its current owner added it to his private collection. Now showing just three previous keepers, it has covered a mere 29,000 miles in the quarter of a century since it was manufactured.

Finished in gloriously elegant Cardinal Red, this coupé sits purposefully on its optional 18-inch alloy wheels, which have been treated to a matching set of new Kumho tyres.

The luxurious interior features swathes of black leather and includes electrically-adjustable front seats, climate control, a Jaguar-branded stereo cassette with a CD changer in the boot and a selectable Sports mode on the J-gate shifter for the automatic gearbox. 

With the 4-litre 32-valve AJ-V8 under the long bonnet generating 290bhp, Jaguar’s figures promise a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds and a 156mph top speed.

Accompanying the vehicle book pack in its original wallet - which includes the service book with eight stamps (the most recent being February 2024) - comes a folder including invoices, receipts and previous MOTs dating back to 2002. The current MOT lasts until April 2025. There is a full original tool kit under the spare wheel and both sets of keys are included in the sale, as is the original registration number, R17 ARB.

This Jaguar XK8 4.0 is a smart and mechanically sound example of the refined grand tourer, which has a strong service history record and has evidently been used and enjoyed throughout its life. The combination of its powerful V8 engine with the plush ride and sumptuous black leather-trimmed interior make this example an ideal way to travel long distances, though it could equally be pressed into everyday duties where it would add a touch of comfort and style to the daily commute.

Summary:

A glorious Jaguar grand tourer in as handsome a colour combination as you’ll find, this XK8 will put a smile on the driver’s face every single time, turning even mundane trips into events.

Seller: Private
Photos: In house 
Location: Warwickshire