Jaguar launched the original XK8 at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show, to replace the ageing  XJS. Available in either coupe or convertible guise, they were the first to use Jaguar’s newly-developed 4 litre V8 engine.  In 1998 the XKR model was launched boasting an Eaton supercharger which raised the power to 370bhp. 

As well as the power upgrade, the suspension was also heavily revised resulting in a car that was much sharper, much more agile and much firmer than the standard version.  In 2002 the engine was enlarged to 4.2 litres, resulting in a whopping 395bhp channelled through a ZF six speed automatic gearbox. 

This convertible XKR appears to be quite a rare car, although more were sold than Coupes. We think there are plenty out there, but those who own them tend to hang on to them as they are such a nice car.  

Purchased by the seller in 2017 the Jaguar was intended for trips around Europe, and it has proved itself to be a comfortable, reliable and stunningly fast Continental tourer on three trips undertaken before lockdown spoiled the fun.  The odometer now reads less than 67,000 miles which is much lower than most XKRs of this age.  

Last serviced in April 2021, it has covered just over 4,000 miles since, so it has been exercised regularly, and well cared for. At that time it also had new suspension bushes, a replacement N/side top suspension arm and the ECU was updated.

Now being offered for sale as although the seller has enjoyed the Jaguar immensely he feels it’s time replace it with something equally as entertaining to drive, but with larger rear seats.

Looking through the comprehensive history file for the Jaguar reveals it was purchased new from a Jaguar dealer in Krefeld, Germany. The Service History book has 15 stamps, with many from Westovers, Poole, where the previous owner lived. 

Along with the Service Book there are plenty of invoices for all the work, plus a full set of MoT certificates stretching back to 2010 that corroborate the low mileage.  There is the original Owner’s wallet with all the books, plus two sets of keys.  Also included is the rather nice XKR registration which is a bonus!

On the inside the Jaguar is in great condition with very little that would reveal the age of the car.  The dark grey (trim code LEG Warm Charcoal) leather seats are clean, unmarked, and except for some creasing show no wear or holes.  The dark grey carets are equally well preserved having been protected by some factory mats, which themselves are a little worn but easily replaced. The walnut dash is smart and shows no cracking.  

There is some wear on the steering wheel leather that has worn smooth as you might expect. The door panels are virtually unmarked, as are the rear seats.  There is a Parrot hands free kit fitted, and a Jaguar 6 CD changer is mounted in the boot, but this is not working. The boot is clean and dry, and complete with warning triangle.

The attractive Platinum Metallic paintwork is in better condition than you would expect on a car of this age.  With only minor marks on close inspection we would say that is far better than most, with no bubbling or discolouration. All the glass, including light lenses show no cracks or chips.  There are a few R model specific badges and features, and all are correct.  

These include XK-R badges on the flanks and rear, boot spoiler, twin tail pipes, louvred bonnet and mesh front grille, plus specific front “Jaguar Supercharged” badge. Also there are Jaguar R brake callipers visible through the BBS spoked wheels. The roof operates and stows correctly and is clean and tidy with a new hydraulic system installed in 2019 at a cost of £900.

The wheels are also specific to the R model; in this case the optional 20 inch BBS split rim 5 spoke alloys.  They all have matching Dunlop Sport tyres, the fronts having been replaced in2021 and the rears in 2018, so all have plenty of life in them.

However, it should be noted that following a pothole incident last year that resulted in the replacement of the front tyres, the nearside side front rim shows some damage, especially to the trim ring area -see photos.  All four wheels show minor curb rash, and a little bubbling here and there on close inspection.

Under the bonnet everything is just how you expect it to be; a little dusty but everything appears to be correct.  There is no sign of drips or leaks.  

Unsurprisingly on a car with such a comprehensive service record and high level of expenditure the seller tells us that when requested it goes like a jet leaving an aircraft carrier!  When we visited it certainly sounded healthy, and moved around for the photos without complaint, starting first turn of the key every time.

There are a few bargain performance sports cars around, but none provide quite the bang for your buck as these R model Jaguars. The problem is so many have monster mileages, patchy history, shabby condition, or worse still –all three!  It’s not often you find such a low mileage example that has been well maintained and would only require a little attention to make it perfect.  

We can’t think of a better way to spend this summer than with the wind in your hair, 395hp V8 and the whine of a supercharger.  Let’s go!