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 Jaguar’s then-young designer Fergus Pollock) and an all-new V8 engine added further to its 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. Launched in 1996, the model was the flagship of the range, initially with 370bhp from its 4.0-litre V8 engine and in soft-top form offering wind-in-the-hair appeal to go alongside its incredible performance, shrieking supercharger, gorgeous looks and wonderfully balanced chassis.
 
This example has been with its owner since 2006, when he bought the car in London. He has travelled all over in it since, and from 2009 until 2024 it was kept in his native Denmark, where it was maintained by Jaguar specialists and, in 2021, was treated to some body repairs and a full respray in its original Pacific Blue.

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 and perfect for classic touring events or as something special for the weekend, with thrilling performance to boot, this is 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 even just look at it.
 

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.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com