Jaguar XK8 - Why Did I Buy One?? 

I just turned 65, treated myself to a Jaguar XKR 4.2 Supercharged 2003. Owning it and driving it was the best thing I’ve done in years.

I’m 25 and I still love this car! It was always one of my dream cars when I was back in primary school! I think it has aged very well and looks just as gorgeous as it did back in the day when it was new!

Great cars! Ignore the skeptics. There's just something special about Jags. I've owned two & enjoyed them.

Absolutely love this design in hard top. Just got my self 2001 with 68k, only one owner. Definitely speaks personality in today’s boring world of new cars. Thank you for the video!

I'm 69 and just yrs. old and my wife's sister and her husband just gave us a 2005 XK8 4.2, 30,000 actual miles in almost mint condition. Onyx white with tan convertible top. It's been kept in a closed garage it's intire existance. We really love it. We drive into the mountains all the time. They are wonderful cars.

Hi. Agree entirely. I bought mine ( 1996 in Sherwood Green) February last year and am still captivated by the look of it .

I bought my 1998 XK8 coupe 3 years ago, it had 60,000 miles on it, 2 owner car, original. The 2 happiest days of my life, the day I bought it, and the day I sold it.

It's great that your in your 30s and enjoying the V8s. In years to come all that will be left are electric pods and memories along with storys of the legendary V8s🤗

I am about to turn 73 and have been shopping for a 2003-2006 XK8 for months now. No it is not a senior moment as I have loved Jaguars since in my early twenties just could never afford one. To me they are the most beautiful cars in the world. They drive like a dream and who can't but admire one as they pass you on the road.

I've had my 2001 XK8 for 10 years now and it still puts a smile on my face when I drive it. It has been totally reliable and serviced by an independent Jaguar specialist. The biggest issue is rust and mine was no exception. It started with a few bubbles on the rear wheelarch. I had it repaired by a specialist in Norfolk. All rot was cut out and new arches and rear sills welded in, then waxoyled. 8 years later and the rust has not returned. I recently took an Audi RV8 for a test. It was space age inside and made a woderful noise, but it was lacking something and didn't feel special. I was pleased to get back in my old Jag. It still turns heads I I always glance back at it. The one important view you didn't mention is the view down the sides in the wing mirrors. That is where the curves come into their own.

I just bought myself a 2003 XK8 convertible yesterday. One owner with just under 100,000 miles immaculatly maintained. I was looking for a cheap beater and I got it for $9,000. As a 39-year-old it's by far the nicest looking car I've ever owned and the interior is mint. I look forward to cruising around with it and taking my wife out to dinner.

Green coupe XK8 really is perfection in automotive aesthetics.

I totally understand your reasons for buying an xk8. I had the bug as well and like you I was considering the XK as opposed to the XK8 because it was the newer series. However, the XK8 is a better looking car period. I purchased a 2003 XK* convertible and it puts a big smile on my face every time I drive it. Absolutely love it in every way. Anyone considering purchasing one take my advice: Get a 2003-2006 it has the 4.2 liter engine which is extremely reliable and it also came with a six speed transmission. Also most important, don't even consider buying one of these cars if you are not able or willing to do most of your own repairs and maintenance. These cars will break your wallet fast. That said it is a head turner and sexy as hell.

I’m 63 and just got a 2008 XK such a sweet riding sports car!

I have a 2000 xk8. I got it with 19,000 miles on it. It's taken my wife and I three trips from fl. to california , washington state and maine about three times without any problems. If you buy a 97-2002, be advised you really need to do a timing chain job on it around 90,000 miles and upgrade the plastic guide rails and plastic tensioners or you are probably going to suffer a major engine problem. I just had mine done for about $2500 and the replaced plastic parts were about to self destruct. I really love this car. Don't buy a pre-2003 without seeing the repair receipt.

I think the XK8 is going to come into it's own as a classic car very soon. I also think that a good car is a wise investment, like the XJ-S, the XK8 values will inevitably rise. The styling is timeless and has all the iconic Jaguar styling cues, the E-Type references are fantastic. The next generation of XK abandoned those styling cues, and in my own humble opinion, the original XK8 is the better looking machine. I test drove one a couple of days ago and loved it, the interior is outstanding, such an opulent, pleasant place to be! I've located a superb 97 plate car with low ownership, full JSH, *NO* corrosion, 100k on the clock, recent Pirelli tyres, Adamesh stage 1 exhaust, and it's had the engine, gearbox and final drive refurbed by Jaguar under the Gold warranty scheme- so the engine has new liners. I'll be finalising the deal later this week. Watch XK8 values climb over the next few years.

Had 3 in the past & starting to look again now , timeless class.

I like it that my wife cant see the speedometer to!!great video

I bought my 2000 XK8 convertibile for the super looks, the elegant interior and the way it glides effortlessy down the road with the V8 purring in the background.

Love the outside and the wheels look lovely on it. The inside looks in great shape too.

My Dad has a 2005 Xk8 in Pacific Blue. It's his pride and joy and has only done 22k miles in 12 years of ownership. It has never had any issues with reliability or missed a beat and very often gets a adriming glances from people. You've made a good choice mate!

When I first saw this car in the Stockholm car show sometime in the mid-90s it completely took my breath away, and I still almost crash to a stop if I pass one on the road, I just have to gawk. Absolutely stunning car!

All good reasons, but really, it’s how it makes you feel. When your look at. When you drive it. When you get knowing nods from other enthusiasts.

A beautiful car Congratulations ! I owned a 1963 E Type coupe in the mid 1970's and unfortunately sold it . I may consider a XK8 after seeing your video ! Best !

Your comments on why you bought an XK8 are identical to mine. I bought one last week at the very lowest price range around. It wasn’t so much that it was cheap as it meant that there’s nothing that can go wrong with mine including the motor needing to be replaced that I couldn’t easily afford to do. Also mine happened to have no problems and drove rather well. Of course my wife has an I told you so hanging over me. Mine was so cheap because 12 years ago it was in a flood and declared a total loss. But it was repaired fully and all problems from that flood have been resolved. But the title has an indication of its having been rebuilt. It’s truly a lovely car and so reminiscent of the E type, a car my father bought new in 1966.

I am now considered as 'elderly' but i bought my 1999 Antigua Blue XK8 which has 70K miles (genuine ) on the clock and I absolutely love it. I have previously owned an XJS for some 15 years but this XK8 is the 'DB's'. I had to end my driving years in some style and this to me is it. The driving experience is superb plus the looks are to die for. I am in love at last!

The way you talk about this car makes it look different. Classy, elegant, and gorgeous. Now I have to have one! I’ll get after it!

Had a Sapphire Blue Coupe For Six years... Sold it and was heart broken. HAD to buy another! Great Video and great taste in cars!!!! Be well!

Mark, I'm 70, have owned every British sports car and more recently 9 Porsches and 18 Audis and the XK8 is far and away the most gorgeous, beautiful car... I can look at it for hours....[pint in hand of course]

One of the 3 Perfectly Designed cars (the others are the Ferrari 456GT and the Mercedes Gullwing), imho. Glad to see a video that appreciates the *beauty* of a car, rather than the cylinders' angle. The opposite of that 456GT owner who started the video with... "I wanted a V12". I would buy one of those even with a 2-stroke engine. Enjoy it!

About a year ago I bought a Silverstone xkr model, simply fantastic! Even today, after 20 years, it has the charm and determination like few other cars!

Greetings from an X100 owner across the pond! As a proud owner of a 2001 XKR Coupe, I can't agree with you more on the styling; there's something watered-down about the X150 that really stands out next to an X100. I'm especially glad you're preserving a coupe body; the convertible is no doubt pretty what with it having the same details up front, but losing that fastback rear window takes something out of the styling.

I've wanted one for a while - and you've just articulated why. On point.

I may be a little young for a Jaguar fan, but there's nothing else as beautiful as these models. I'm hoping to get my hands on one soon.

Totally agree 100%> I was in a position to buy a 150, but the XK 100 has been my favourite looking car ever since I saw one back in 97. Back in 2019, after returning back from 18 years in Istanbul, I realised my dream and bought a BRG 1998 XK8, which I still have. Now,,since June this year I've also owned a special limited edition, Metallic Black XKR. 2003 .4.2. That's it .. The only cars I will purchase from now on, are if I could ever afford them, are my other all time favourites. EType, DB4/6, Jenson Interceptor

John your car is great! I have a 2007 XK Convertible 1 of 97 Winter Gold, 4.2L V8 Duel clutch, 6-speed auto stick /w paddle shifters, 19" wheels, every option. I am 6' 3 235lbs, more than enough room, and that is just one of the reasons I love this car, the drive is unreal...a smile from ear to ear, never get tired of looking at it or being in it ...I do car shows with it. this is my 4th sports car. Hope to have this for many years, Am 76, got it over a year ago you can see it on my FB page, also I am a painter, Artist full time. PS, I got the Jag for less than 16% of the MSRP with 41000 on the clock. ( now 46000 and love every minute of it :)

Am looking into getting one as an everyday cruiser that's ULEZ friendly. Agree with the design. It's timeless.

So gorgeous. I have a chance to buy one of these, but a convertible. 65,000 miles and only like 10 grand. Great shape. Tempted... 1997

Agreed, these are beautiful cars and I love those subtle, stylistic references to our motoring past. not so sure about the SatNav option though, perhaps the traditional three dials carries the classic styling better. Other cars come and go and have utility but my XK8’s the only one I look forward to driving.

Finally a video on cars without annoying background music, just a nice introduction to your Jag. I think you did fine buying one, to me this model represents a part of a cultural heritage. I'd love to own one but I'm afraid I couldn't carry my instruments (I'm a luteplayer). I wish you all the best with this beauty and will subscribe. Cheers, Andreas

I find myself driving the Jag more than my other cars. Just a different Animal! No pun intended. Thanks for sharing your car! Stunning!

One of the most beautiful cars ever, in my humble opinion. 👍

I bought my 2000 XK8 as a project car. It was all original and ran fine at 96,000 miles. It needed front suspension work, i.e. shocks, shock mounts, water pump, hoses etc. nothing major. Mine is anthracite black hard top coupe and is a head turner at the car shows. I've won numerous awards with it. It is a timeless design and while it is a cruiser not a hot rod, it's acceleration and interior were way ahead of it's time. P.S. I only paid $4500 for the car.

I bought a '96 launch car XK8 convertable when it was 6 months old. I put it in a barn and stored it in 2012. Earlier this year (2022) decided to try and start it. Installed brand new battery and remarkably started within 20 seconds! That is first time in 10 years! Spent £1200 getting it through MOT and am now about to use it again... Tax is dear at around £200 for 6 months ~ but cheapest online comprehensive classic car insurance quoted for limited 2000 miles per year was £87... Absolutely outstanding... Overall mpg has been around 22mpg... It now has 107k and has been very reliable. The Utube series 'Secrets of the XK8' made by enthusast John are superb and tell you all about everything to assist on maintaining one yourself. Many of the problems which a garage would charge hundreds of pounds for are easy fixes which can be done in minutes so well worth a look...

Agree totally, had my 01 in metallic silver which gives a pink hue in the sunlight for 18 months and the best 6k I’ve ever spent. I smile every time I pull on my drive and see her sitting so pretty. I think I will keep till I can’t drive anymore then pass it to my boy. Love the sound of yours too, not standard exhaust I presume Steve.

I bought a 2003 XKR about 6 weeks ago. It was at the lower end of the price spectrum, and needs a few things sorting, but I knew that going in, and will sort them over the next few months. It’s a lovely thing to drive, if completely impractical!

Just bought my 2002 coupe (in Ultraviolet blue ) on the 16th Jan. It's an absolute pleasure to drive and to look at. I was watching your other vids prior to purchase, keep them coming.

I recently purchased an XJS V12 1989 with low mileage. I owned a few in the 80's & can honestly say just looking at it makes me smile!! Many Thanks, Peace From London. 👍👍👍

I'm 35, and found a few I like I'm sorely tempted

I'm 25 and got myself an '03 XJR about half a year ago... Definitely one of my better decisions. Absolute beast of a machine, and it's arguably the best time to have a thirsty vehicle round about now!

I agree with Everything you said! I'm looking for the Right One Now....

Such a nice looking car, a joy for the eye.

I managed to buy one in brilliant condition for 1600 a couple days ago. Some cosmetics but interior and engine are in superb shape

Great car. I have an ‘04 XK8 in Jaguar Racing Green too. It still gets a lot of positive attention.

I 100% agree with you. I got my 2002 XKR in the same Green w/ 9,675miles back in 2018. I absolutely agree with you, this had to be my car before any other cars. My first car and I value every day more with it. Daily driver currently at 28,700. Wow, truly a fun ride and the comments I get around NYC is so genuine. Timeless design. Brought her back out on road from a collector’s dealership in San Fran. Trusted my gut and shipped her over without inspecting it. Mint. Days after, the owner of the dealership called me and said the car was originally for his dad but his dad was full Porche. I promised him I’ll take great care of the car. He then told me he got it from the same garage that hosted Fast & Furious, 1 of 7 made for that year in that color if you could believe it. Wow. I am grateful for all the wonderful experiences, people, and things that flow into my life.

Why did you bought it? Because you have a good taste and you can afford it. Enjoy the cat. I have 2 X300s and I love them both. Great classics.

Agreed! It’s a great look. The form is so juicy.

One of the best looking cars of all time, a mate and a cousin have them, lovely

I couldn't agree more. I bought my XK8 13 years ago and will never sell it. It has never let me down and just recently was recommissioned and my son is driving it now, with occasional use from me.

When I bought my XK8 4.2 coupe in midnight black the Jaguar Dealer Principal said to hang onto it because it's a future classic. Have it serviced every year (non dealer) & never had a major problem. Still love driving it 15 years after I first drove it out of the showroom.

I’m 19 and have an X-type right now can’t wait till I can get myself one of these🙌🏽

I couldn't agree with you more and the color green is the only color for me. Cheers!!!

This is quintessentially the best and the most accessible automobile for the Everyman! When they are cared for properly and not redlined to death they are extremely reliable! Also a top speed of 155 mph, ain't too shabby, either!

Had a stunning XKR 2002 MY convertible. Less than 25,000 and regularly serviced and well looked after. I carried on that process and it was absolutely gorgeous. Adaptive suspension made it a dream to drive. Morons who don't ever look after their cars don't deserve to own one. Absolutely loved it and only sold it as I changed jobs moved house and needed the funds. I still wish I'd managed to keep it. Glorious Red and black full leather upholstry. Took it across Europe and never missed a beat and lots of complimemts. Always kept it on a battery conditioner.

Ha, when I saw the title and before I watched the video, I thought you were saying.... why on earth did I buy this as its cost me so much money!! 😁 Agree with everything you said as to main reasons for purchase, but I'd also add the tremendous performance of that 4.2 V8, esp the supercharged iteration!

Bought my Antigua Blue convertible in December 2019, superb looks and sublime interior, got one before prices go the way of the e-type...

Your comments I agree with you have a nice looking Jag. Some of your reasons is why I got mine.

The first brand new car I ever bought was a 2001 XK8 convertible in green. Very much a look at me car in rural Australia at that time! I must admit I miss it but glad I don't have the running costs!

Congrats, that's a seriously beautiful car. This from a die-hard Mercedes guy. Cheers!

I have an 03 roadster and an 04 roadster. A thing of beauty is a JOY. FOREVER.

Very nice, you have good taste and the wheels are exactly what i would choose also. The 96-06 design IMO is far superior that what came after it. I find the Austin of the same time period very desirable also, and strikingly similar in design. Needless to say, the XK8 gets high marks in the design catagory..

Love these cars. Especially in British racing green. Beautiful!!!

I liked your video. I'd like to add to it.....Jaguar owners enjoy a 'relationship' with their cars where as it seems to most people their 'ride' is merely a 'convenience' Yes Jaguar cars can be 'finicky' no question. That being said i'd like to quote someone I once had a conversation re: Jaguar Motor Cars. And here it is " any and everything that has Beauty 'Cost Money" As simple a statement as it is true. I too enjoy your taste in fine motoring. And yes, there is indeed an Elegance to a lovely Jaguar like few (if any) others.

I was 40 and bought an XKR convertable (near new) in 2002. Regret selling it 2019. Seroiusly. My current Volvo XC 60 has more issues than the Jag ever had. Dont get old!

Spot on regarding the details. I'd also add the wonderful XJ13 as another car they borrowed some of those lovely lines from. Also notice the lack of disrupting body panel gaps. The few that are there blend in really well with the overall design, something that not many modern cars manage to do.

Loved my 2000 XKR convertible so much that a couple of years later I bought a 1998 XJR Sedan. Price is very low in USA due to Jaguar's poor reliability reputation from the 1950's to 1994. The only consistent problems with the two cars is the coolant hoses. Particularly the "valley" hoses and the firewall octopus hoses. Supercharger problems are the rubber intake air hoses and be sure to check the oil level in your supercharger. My level was very low in one car.

I have a 1997 XK8 and I believe it has a beautiful classic look like no other car.

Tomorrow I am going to have my first Jaguar XK8 convertible, British Imperial Green, cream inside, from a collectioner that cried all night for decision to sell it. I will be tomorrow driving between the wonderful Lago Maggiore to the wineyards of Barbaresco and Barolo where she will have her place in the Family's estate. I was not crazy for cars. At the contrary. But Jaguar did the change I can''t wait to make my first ride tomorrow in the still hot Italian evenings, with roof just the stars. I will buy her sister in a short while, as XKR. Sort of enchantement. Noblesse oblige

It's never too late to have a happy childhood. Bruce Meyer - Beverly Hills.

Another very nicely shot and interesting Video. Really enjoying your channel. But obviously a bit biased and like to hear about your experiences with the Cat most. Keep them coming. And apologies for being such a geek. But I am genuinely interested. Did I detect the use of a motion tracking Gimble in your shot when you get out of the car after pulling into the layby? Or was it just a really subtle 'Ken burns' Crop My compliments👍👍👍 John from 'To The Garage'

I sold this model to buy a 2012 XK-R and regret my decision. I miss it terribly.

That is, in my opinion, the nicest spec, best colour combination with wood wheel and great wheels or the same in DHC with a green roof.

Totally agree, for me a very wonderful model

Lovely car. I bought myself a 2007 (X150) XK a couple of years ago and absolutely love it. I do like these older XKs as well, especially the interiors which are fantastic. They are a real bargain too.

Had about 6 jags.. always love the smoothness and style...you put your case very well.. not to keen on latei shape

What a beautiful car... Would u mind if I ask you few questions about this car? 1. Where did you purchase this used car? 2. how much did it cost for this used one? 3. As the car owner of this model, what are some drawbacks and typical issues of this car model and how often do you have to worry about maintenance? 4. Would you mind sharing some tips on getting a nice used car of this model? Any particular things to check?... 5. Did you upgrade or tuned any part of this car? Like an engine?

Good choice, looks great in green with the cream interior.

...ive had two Jags so far... a 1998 XJR and a 2002 3.2 XJ ... and will definitely have another one again, been thinking about an XK8... there is just something about the way the xj series drives and handles... its fantastic... and the interior is classic with the wood and leather...

Beautiful lines, lovely interior, what's not to like? ( let's ignore the rust issues and the fuel consumption ). I don't need one , it won't fit in my garage, but I still want one .

Nice looking car in the British racing green but have to disagree with you on your comment that it's nicer than the newer X-150. Front end and back end of X-150 were improvements on the XK8 in my opinion. Side profiles both equally as beautiful and still up there with the nicest looking cars on the road today. Just my opinion.

The main criticism that was aimed at this car still stands - it looks like a copy of the Aston Martin. My friend owned and loved his XK R and I drove it once & it was an absolute hoot. I think its similarity to the Aston will continue to be a bug-bear for a few years yet. The Jag does seem to be ageing better than the Aston though and so if you're going to buy one now is the time.

I have owned a 2000 XK8 convertible for about 3 years now. I finally have the car well sorted out. For me the car is a hobby and would never consider it as a daily driver. I really enjoy driving the car and the more I drive it the faster it seems. By the way BRG is the ONLY color for this car!

In my opinion this version with wooded dash is the best model . I prefer it to the later models of carbon fibre and the earlier models with the problems of the cylinder bores. THe models between 2000 and 2005 and particularly the XKR in that date range are future classics.

Totally agree about the style! Very good looking car! Awesome style!

A beautiful car, I have a 2010 XK but to be honest I think the wood in your car looks better than the later brushed aluminium. Also my car that I bought in Sept 2019 has been plagued by electrical problems. I really enjoy your videos thank you.

From an esthetic standpoint - body and interior - this is my favorite Jag, competing with the xjc. I never drove one but tried an xk 5.0. Do you know how the two compare in terms of driving experience ?

a beautiful car with a very stylish design

Nice video...your car is stunning. What style you like is totally subjective, of course. Your image of the newer version was carefully chosen - I suppose - to make your case for the prior version looking better. However, if you line up "the best" images of all sides/angles of both generations of XKR, a clear winner is not easy to pick, as both series definitely have their strong points. In my opinion, the (newer) X150 convertible wins, and the coupes are a tie.

Great looking car and nice for a cruise, But just too heavy to have fun in When I sold my XK8 & bought a NC MX5 it was life changing. It was like going from driving a bus to a gokart. Also the cost of repairs has dropped to near nil. So I have been able to afford all the upgrades like headers & a tune & suspension.

The X100 is certainly a future classic and it’s very sad seeing so many at the cheap end of the market, being badly maintained or simply allowed to rust... Imagine treating an XK120 this way in the 60’s, so many of them were. Now, they fetch a small fortune. For lots of info on your X100, I recommend the RU-vid channel To The Garage.