The X300/X308 series of Jaguar saloons are going through a bit of a collector boom at the moment, especially the rare or interesting variants.
And this one is something a bit special. A 1998 X308 saloon, but also the absolute pinnacle of the model range. As the line-up went, the Daimler V8 was initially the luxury flagship, while the supercharged XJR was the performance model.
Then, in the year this car was built, Jaguar launched the Daimler Super V8 – a cheeky amalgam of the two, with all of the Daimler accoutrements but fitted with the XJR’s supercharged AJ-V8 engine.
360bhp and 0-60 in 5.6 seconds were at odds with the Daimler’s twee and traditional styling – but in a wonderful way.
Less than 600 were made, of which 480 were sold in the UK, making it a very rare car today as less than half of those made are known to survive.
You won’t find one lurking on every street corner, so here’s a chance to snare one now – a fabulous modern(ish) performance saloon with a true Jekyll and Hyde character. DSC_1121.jpg4.64 MB
Four seater model with executive rear seats and chiller console
Rear climate and audio controls
Daimler embossed
New headliner
OEM stereo
Reclining rear seats
Picnic tables
Inside is where it’s at with the Daimler, where Jaguar threw everything it had at making the car’s luxury unsurpassable.
It was offered in two configurations – a five-seater with the same rear bench as the XJ saloons, or a four-seater, which had a centre rear console and two individually sculpted rear seats, with electrically adjustable backrests and walnut picnic tables.
This one is the latter and it’s a glorious place to sit.
As you’d expect, the specification is incredible. Climate control, a premium sound system, cruise control… it’s all there. There are also separate controls for the rear climate and audio settings.
The seats are in excellent order, the only minor issues being some droopiness to the rear headlining and some minor wear to the steering wheel.DSC_1076.jpg4.27 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Long wheelbase body
Smart, clean and tidy
Excellent panels
Refurbished alloys
The Daimler is a handsome beast of a car, complemented by refurbished 18-inch alloy wheels, which are a uniquely Daimler design.
It’s a great-looking car and is based on the long-wheelbase X308, as were all Daimlers unless specifically ordered in short-wheelbase format, though why anyone would when this is a car that’s as much about the back end as the front is beyond us.
The car is presented in very good visual order, while the paint is largely very smart – the vendor describes it as a really nice example, but it would benefit from the attentions of some minor body work and a professional detailer to take it to the next level.DSC_1129.jpg3.67 MB
THE MECHANICS
Supercharged 4.0 V8
360bhp
Automatic transmission
Starts and runs well
Strong oil pressure
The Daimler starts well and holds good oil pressure, the vendor reporting that it is an absolute joy to drive with sensational performance, a seductive induction noise from the supercharger and masses of power in reserve.
He reports that the steering and brakes are excellent and that there are no clonks or clatters from the suspension, which are commonly found on these heavy-fronted V8 XJ models.
They handle beautifully, too, so this is a surprisingly agile performance saloon as much as it is a luxury liner. DSC_1075.jpg3.42 MB
SUMMARY
Luxury really doesn’t come much cooler than this – a quintessentially British sports saloon with a ridiculous amount of power, great looks and a wonderfully sumptuous cabin.
It’s a stunning thing and it won’t disappoint.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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VAT will be added to the buyer’s deposit as applicable.
