The Jaguar XK8 – Five things you need to know

We begin the new year very much in the same vein as we ended the last; by browsing the Car & Classic classifieds and auction listings looking for potential classics to add to our collection. Or at least to covet until we can figure out a way to actually and realistically be able to own them. Either way we found ourselves down a Jaguar shaped hole, and in particular the XK8 was holding out attention. We already have a an XJR (X306) and an XJ40 in the fleet but you can never have enough Jaguars, right? We’re sure that’s a saying and the XK8 is a great choice for the modern classic car enthusiast. It embodies that big cat credo of power, grace and space wonderfully but not all XK8s have remained equal and as such there are a few things to bear in mind when looking into owning one.

Stylish and powerful the Jaguar XK8 was introduced in 1996 as a successor to the then rather geriatric XJS. This new GT sports car from Jaguar did retain the previous car’s floorpan, however, although everything else was brand spanking, from the 4.0-litre, AJ-V8 engine to the fully electronic 5-speed ZF gearbox. Offered as both a coupé and convertible the XK8 not only looked good but it could shift too, with an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and a 0-60 time of just over 6 seconds. After the 21-year-old (at the time) XJS, Jaguar were back in the performance spotlight where they belong.

An even quicker version was released soon after in the form of the XKR which produced 370bhp (a whopping 80 horsepower increase) thanks to the addition of a supercharger. Not only that but things got even more growly in 2002 when the original V8 engine was increased in capacity to 4.2-litres, which again bumped up power in both the normally aspirated and blower versions to 300 and 400bhp respectively. The XK8 was certainly no pussy cat. It was a huge hit for Jaguar and the public lapped it up.

Mechanical and aesthetic updates continued to be applied over the car’s ten year production run, including the addition of five and six-speed automatic gearboxes and there are still plenty of decent example out there with a huge range of options and extras, so there should be something for everyone. Before you take the plunge and put this particular cat amongst your pigeons, however, there are five things you need to know about the Jaguar XK8.

1) Bodywork

The XK8 will rust if neglected, especially the floorpan areas where the steel re-enforcing plates can trap moisture, so get underneath and have a good look around. Check for any accident damage too – the XK8 is a powerful car in any guise and with rear-wheel drive can catch the less experienced driver by surprise. Colour differences between panels, uneven gaps and overspray are all clear signs of poor repair work. While underneath have a good look at the suspension mounting points as well. The sills and wheel arches are somewhat notorious for rot and although repair panels for most of these areas are readily available there’s not really any need to settle for a rotter with so many XK8s still available. Unless you’re really into it for the DIY project side of things then make sure you grab a rust-free example.

2) Engine

The earlier engines, up until mid 2000, used a Nikasil lining in the cylinders which could perish causing excessive oil consumption and low compression, but this was soon fixed on later cars. If you’re unsure a quick compression test will tell you all you need to know. Timing chain rattle can indicate a bad tensioner so have a good listen to the engine upon start up as well as under load. Originally made of plastic many will have been upgraded to steel by now which became standard as of 2002. That big V8 should purr at idle and remain smooth when pushed. Check the drive belt and supercharger belt (if fitted) for wear and check any paperwork for recent replacements as well as regular oil changes and general servicing. The usual head gasket inspections should also be carried out.

3) Suspension

Check for signs of uneven tyre wear which can indicate worn ball joints. Suspension bushes are also prone to wear so check for any knocking or rattling from all four corners. While not difficult to replace these deteriorated parts may suggest that the car has not been particularly well looked after and you may be better off moving on to other prospects. The same goes for the front wheel bearings. The handling should still feel tight and agile so spend a good chunk of time behind the wheel before handing over any cash.

4) Electrics

Depending on what was ticked on the dealer options sheet the XK8 could realistically be tricked out with a whole host of toys, from electric seats and steering columns to the power hood on the convertible, and as such there’s a lot that can potentially play up. Press every button and flick every switch to make sure that everything works as intended from the factory. A car with two working remote key fobs is a plus as replacement units can be expensive.

5) History

A comprehensive service and maintenance history is imperative when looking for an XK8. Opting for the cheapest will only spell disaster further down the line so make sure to go for one that has been cherished and serviced regularly. As mentioned earlier there are plenty of these cars out there in myriad different specifications so take your time and do your research. Having said that, even if you do encounter any problems there is great parts and specialist support available. The XK8 remains a gorgeous, dynamic, modern classic GT car with bags of power, especially in XKR form and you can still pick up a performance bargain that will provide years and years of joyful motoring. If the Jaguar XK8 is not currently on your wanted list then it definitely should be.

If you find the XK8 holding your attention when browsing classics, keep an eye on our Jaguar XK8 listings page for more chances to find yours.