Jaguar XJ8 1994 - 2003
3.2 Stats
Top speed: 140mph
0-60mph: 8.1
Economy: 23.5
NCAP: n/a
Why Buy: First of all it looks like a Jag should, low, sporty and sexy, but also because it is reassuringly British and not cold and German. It is smooth, powerful and certainly sumptuous inside. Oh yes and you get plenty of standard equipment and the prices could not be lower.
Equipment: Don’t worry, you will be very happy in an XJ8 as leather, climate control and pretty much electric everything is part of the package. Later models also have parking sensors, rain sensing wipers and obviously a CD changer.
Driving: The very best thing about an XJ8 is that it could not be smoother. The ride and comfort is exemplary, but the clever thing is that it is still sporty too; you can hustle it through corners with incredible ease. It is the perfect combination for those who love driving and luxury.
Marketplace: There are no shortages of XJ8s and to get attention these days they do have to be cheap, which always seems to happen with Jags anyway. As these cars are a generation apart from the current models they are now regarded as old, yet they look so similar, so the buyer is always going to win.
Best Buys: The 3.2 is the entry-level model but does not feel it. Many owners report that they can coax a genuine 30mpg out of theirs. The Sovereign model is slightly bigger and addresses the issues of those who say that it is too cramped inside.
Sum Up: An XJ8 is probably the finest luxury car that not much money will buy. The interior is such a quality place to be, whilst the V8 engine is incredibly responsive. Running costs will be on the steepish side, but it won’t ever be as crippling as when a Merc or BMW goes wrong.
Words: James Ruppert