THE sumptuous luxury of a Jaguar XJ8 makes an occasion of every journey in a way that few German cars can manage.
And when such a superb motor car, which cost at least £39,000 new, can now be yours for around £8,000, it’s time to spoil yourself.
Earliest 2003 3.0-litre, 240bhp V6 models are down to around that price with independent dealers, and the lighter aluminium body means they are capable of a real 25 miles per gallon.
The marvellous V8s start with the 3.5-litre which has 262bhp, and then rises to the 4.0- litre with 300bhp, or supercharged with 400bhp.
The cabin is a leather trimmed cocoon which not only looks and feels superb, but is also functional and well-designed.
Effortless performance is standard, as is an automatic gearbox; the handling, road-holding and brakes are superb and the ride is simply sublime – better than almost anything on the road.
But never buy such a originally expensive car without full service history, which ensures it’s been properly cared for.
Interior
As well as the wonderful leather, all have climate control, cruise control and beautiful wood veneer trimming the whole cabin.
Long wheelbase models have more rear legroom, but drive just as beautifully as the normal length cars. Equipment is excellent and so is the ambiance.
FAST FACTS
Jaguar XJ8
Price: Pay about £9,500 for an ’04 04-reg V6, £16,500 for an ’07 07-reg Executive
Mechanical: 240bhp, 2,967cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 145mph
0-62mph: 7.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 27
Insurance group: 17
CO2 emissions: 249g/km
BIK rating: 35%
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: BMW 7-Series