Highlights

One of the earliest XK8s made, registered in May 1997
Only 46,885 miles from new
Three registered keepers with current one since 2013
Very well maintained with comprehensive maintenance
Desirable upgrades to address common model weaknesses
Smart Carnival Red with cream leather interior in good order

The Appeal

Jaguar’s XK8 packs a lot of goodness into its E-Type-aping lines. Alongside the sleek styling there is the lovely wood and leather-trimmed interior whilst under the bonnet is the 290bhp V8 that is as smooth as the styling. These cars drive in a equally smooth and unruffled way too, making them perfect for weekend trundles or long distance tours.

Here is a very early example and one of the lowest mileage we’ve seen in a long while. Finished in lovely Carnival Red metallic with a cream leather cabin, it is a much-loved example that has been with the current keeper - the third - since 2013.

Alongside the sparing use, he has executed some valuable mechanical improvements to the car that address some of the well-known shortcomings and, in turn, improve the reliability. These include replacing the water pump and thermostat housing with metal items, new metal timing chain tensioners and fitting new crankshaft seal, pulley and O ring.

Alongside regular servicing, other recent maintenance work within the last 2,000 miles has included a gearbox service, new alternator, new front wheel bearings, replacement front discs and pads and an oil service less than 50 miles ago. There is also a new battery.

The car is in great order with the usual XK8 check areas of arches, sills and floors presenting well. All in all, a lovely convertible GT that is absolutely ready for another enthusiastic owner to enjoy in the sun.

The History and Paperwork

Registered in May 1997
One of the earliest registered XK8s
Two previous registered keepers
Current keeper since 2013
Current MOT valid until 10th April 2025 with minor advisories for tyres
Original driver's handbook and total care handbook in original wallet
Two sets of keys, including two valet care keys
Various invoices and receipt as shown
Recent servicing and maintenance work summarised below
MOT and servicing verifies the low displayed mileage

The Condition

Metallic carnival red paintwork presents well with vendor reporting no rust or chips
Bodywork is very good and presents well in usual XK8 check areas of sills, arches and floors
Original starfish alloy wheels in great condition with barely any indications of wear
Vendor advises that the tyres show good tread depth although buyers should note MOT advisories
Car is supplied with a full size spare that the vendor says is unused
Black fabric hood operates smoothly and presents well with good, even colour and clear rear screen
Lights and glasswork in good order with headlights show clear lenses
Cream leather upholstery with minimal wear on driver's bolster
Walnut burr fascia appears in smart condition
Original carpets with no wear, plus new tailored mats with red piping
All instruments and push buttons in working order
Heated screen reported to work correctly with no chips
No reported electrical, lighting, switchgear or dial faults
No dashboard warning lights

The Mechanics

3,980cc AJV8 290bhp engine
5spd automatic transmission with Jaguar J-Gate
Upgraded metal timing chain tensioners, water pump, and thermostat housing
Renewed gearbox oil, filter, and gasket at 43,851 miles
New alternator at 44,071 miles
Renewed front wheel bearings, brake discs, and pads at 46,393 miles
Recent oil change and flush at 46,839 miles
New battery at 46,879 miles
No mechanical advisories on current MOT
Drivebelt recently replaced
No reported running or driving issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..