In many ways, the XK8 was the modern incarnation of the E-Type. Far more of a sports car than the XJS it replaced, the V8-powered coupé or convertible was a return to Jaguar’s pure performance car days, with terrific handling and drop-dead gorgeous looks.
It was based on a modified XJS platform, with brand new front suspension and the multi-link rear end from the X300 saloon, while the amazing styling (courtesy of Fergus Pollock) and brand-new V8 engine added further appeal.
There were echoes of the E-Type in the styling too, with distinctive side bulges and a long, rounded nose. Indeed, the E-Type parallels are gathering appeal among collectors, especially as a lot of earlier models have now disappeared. Demand for good examples has started to outstrip supply, meaning prices are on the up and the best cars are becoming increasingly popular.
The XKR is the ultimate derivative of the original Jaguar XK8 sports car, and in soft-top form offers wind-in-the-hair appeal to go alongside its incredible performance, shrieking supercharger, gorgeous looks and wonderfully balanced chassis.
This example is an absolute corker – a low-mileage car in striking and ultra-rare Phoenix Red with Cashmere leather, it’s not only a handsome example but also a well-maintained one that’s guaranteed to put a huge smile on your face every time you drive it – or just look at it.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Jaguar book pack and wallet
UK V5C
MOT May 2024 passed with no advisories
Fully stamped service book, with two additional services in 2021 and 2022
Supplied new in April 2002 by Lancaster Jaguar of Reading
Enthusiast-owned for over 13 years
Cherished plate included in sale
THE INTERIOR
Cashmere leather seats and door trims
Optional Dark Burr Walnut veneers
Excellent leather seat facings, minimal wear to driver’s seat bolster
Original Jaguar-supplied StarTAC car phone
Very good rear seats, barely used
Superb door cards
Electric retractable roof
Cashmere leather tonneau cover
Optional part-wood steering wheel
Electrically adjustable steering column
Factory mats
Cruise control
Climate control
Steering wheel audio controls
Smart luggage area
CD changer
Original tools and space-saver spare wheel
THE EXTERIOR
Extremely rare Phoenix Red - solid
Black mohair soft top in perfect working order
18-inch multispoke factory alloys in very good condition, showing no notable kerb marks
Matching Pirelli P-Zero tyres all-round
Appears very good underneath
Panels are all straight and dent-free
Excellent paint work with no notable chips, marks or scratches – just one minor mark on the bonnet, two very small scuffs to the door mirrors and a minor scuff on the plastic boot lid plinth
Rear arches and trailing edges of the sills are in excellent order with no bubbling or visible rust
Headlights are clear, not cloudy
All correct badges and trim in excellent order
THE MECHANICS
4.0-litre V8
Five-speed auto transmission
370bhp – 0-60mph in 5.0 secs and top speed limited to 155mph
Last serviced by accredited garage in June 2022, less than 300 miles ago
Reported by the vendor to drive without fault with no warning lights on the dash and no untoward noises from the mechanics or suspension
SUMMARY
This is a really lovely, original and low-mileage example of the original XKR convertible in its purest form, in wonderful order and finished in a striking and extremely rare colour scheme that’s sought-after by collectors.
The original XK8 is a car that’s only going one way, as have the XJS and E-Type before it. Good ones – especially XKRs - are cars worthy of collectors and are also increasingly cherished as enjoyable, usable modern classics - fun to drive, roof up or down. Perfect for classic touring events or as something special for the weekend, with thrilling performance to boot. The rare and unusual colourway of this example makes it even more appealing as a modern classic with investment potential.
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:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
