The XK8 was Jaguar's first foray back into the two-seater sports tourer category since the E-Type, so it had big boots to fill. However, with that being said, it managed to fill them well. It had all the key components it needed, such as a powerful V8, a smooth automatic gearbox, and an electrically operated roof section.
This example has been well looked after by all of its owners, it still starts first time on the key and pulls away effortlessly with a slight burble from the exhaust, but it is when you get out on the road that it comes into its own.i0fbfIWSAuIJs9pUQx1qdp4ObTrn5evYGkUbuqZf.jpeg2.09 MB
The History and Paperwork
Leaving the Coventry factory on the 20th of September 2002 it has gone on to live a life split between 5 owners
The previous owner had the car from 2014 until very recently, so they must have loved it.
Although there are no big invoices to talk about it does have a well stamped service book
Receiving stamps from both Jaguar main dealers and specialists it is clear to see that it has been looked after properly
It may have clocked up nearly 20,000 miles in its first year, but since then it has increased steadily
The service book has been photographed and can be found in the gallery
This XK8 still has a lot of the original handbooks, these are all held neatly within its Jaguar embossed document holder
Although there may not be a lot of invoices, it is clear to see that this example has been looked after well
What makes this even better is the current owners know a thing or two about Jaguars so this should give you some peace of mind
It is now your chance to add to the history of this big cat, wherever you take the car it will create many memories for you
Jaguars are as much about their comfort as they are about their performance. With this in mind, it is then vital that the interior is an experience in itself. Filled with high-end materials this example has a great interior that you will enjoy every second spent within it.
If we start by looking at the black leather seats, we can see that they are presented in good condition. You may see some minor marks on the leather, but importantly they are not ripped or stained. We must also mention that both of the front seats are also heated, meaning you could use this car year round if you wanted to.
From the driver’s seat, you are presented with the Jaguar embossed part leather steering wheel that will be the key to so many happy motoring miles in the future. You will also be within easy reach of the classic Jaguar J gate gear selector. If you are pootling along in town then simply leave it in drive, but if you wish for a little more fun out on the country roads then you can use the gate to choose the gears manually. This just adds another dynamic to the interior without adding another pedal.
Set behind the steering wheel and gear selector you’ll find the wonderfully preserved wood veneer dash. This wood section adds yet another luxury touch inside this modern classic. It is hard to say whether or not it has been kept within a garage, but as there is no obvious sun bleaching or lacquer peel it looks like it has been kept out of the sun.
As this is the roadster variant the most important part of the interior is of course the retracting fabric roof. With the roof up the interior feels like a focused driving car, but with the roof retracted the cabin is filled with light and the sounds of the big V8 ahead of you. Whether you travel with the roof up or down you will enjoy every moment sat within the interior of this XK8.
The XK8 is a sleek, and beautiful looking sports tourer. The long bonnet leading to the elliptical mouth is very reminiscent of its elder brother, the E-Type. This example is presented very well externally, and it should look great sitting pride of place on your driveway or in your garage.
Finished in a rather stealthy silver on silver it still manages to look stunning, the simple sweeping lines of the X100 XK variant are still visible through the silver paint, and it makes for one excellent-looking car. This paint has recently received a bit of TLC from the current owner which has removed any unwanted marks on the paintwork.
The alloy wheels fitted to the car, also finished in silver, are presented in good to very good condition. If you look carefully enough you may find one or two marks, but on the whole, they look as if they have been looked after.
Turning our attention to the roof we can see that it too is in good condition. When erected there are a few fold/crease marks to the hood, but it does still seem to keep the water out. When the weather improves you can retract the roof at the press of a button and it will stow neatly behind the rear seats, you can hide it away nicely under the original tonneau cover that will come with the car.
We have finally made out way to a section where, once again, this XK8 will shine. Under the long bonnet, you will find a 4.0l V8 that fires into life straight away and idles nicely. This engine has been well serviced by both Jaguar main dealers and Jaguar specialists, which means it should carry on for some time to come.
Mated to the big V8 is a nice and smooth 5-speed automatic transmission that changes gear effortlessly. This transmission will make every journey out in this modern classic a pure dream, it is effortless to drive around.
Whether you intend to use this car as a stylish long distance cruiser or B-road blaster it will perform both tasks with ease, always leaving a smile on your face. In the modern world big, naturally aspirated, V8s are dying out so this could be your last chance to experience one of the greatest engines to ever be made. YLpOyAQt341QhT69kvi1WqiCvlXgg4YJUBGLKT4W.jpeg4.53 MB
Summary
Grace, Space, Pace. One of Jaguar's original taglines still applies some 50 years later with this X100 XK8. It has graceful styling that helps it fit into any scenario, it has the space to fit you and your passengers comfortably, and of course, it has the pace thanks to its V8 up front.
You will have a lot of fun with this great example of a British modern classic.
