Jaguar XK8 1996 - 2006 4.0 Stats
Top speed 155 mph
0-60mph 6.4 seconds
Economy: 24.1 mpg
NCAP n/a
Why Buy: It’s now more affordable than ever and most of all it really looks the supercar part. This is also one of the most reliable Jaguars for several generations. Looks good, sounds great and it is supremely comfortable.
Equipment: Plenty of kit as you would expect with a car of this calibre, so that means full leather, automatic gearbox, climate control, CD multichanger and loads of other electrical labour saving devices.
Driving: Don’t expect to be behind the wheel of a sports car because this is a smooth and civilised grand tourer. Even so if you do push the car into corners the Jaguars responds enthusiastically.
Marketplace: There are plenty around at the moment and that makes it a buyers market, although the convertible holds its own at this time of the year.
Best Buys: Revised 4.2 engine from 2002, but older models are excellent and better value too. XKR supercharged is the ultimate, but do you really need that extra power?
Sum Up: It’s an opportunity to buy one of the most charismatic cars at a knockdown price. The image is still strong and no one resents you for owning the sexy XK. Buy one while you still can.
Words: James Ruppert