Before the first XF came Jaguar had a reputation for building cars which were a fusion of old school “classiness” and modern technology. But there was this one car which was different. This one specifically had that “something” about it. I’m talking about the XK8 built between 1996 and 2006. This one was just stunningly beautiful.

Let’s speak the truth here. The design has aged beautifully like fine wine from the fields of Tuscany. I do definitely see some Aston Martin inspiration here. That’s because both the XK8 and the popular and successful DB7 were based on an old F-Type design they had, just “lying around”. This is amusing because all of these machines which were based on the F-Type ended up so much more sensual to behold than the F-Type itself launched in 2013. But as they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and this is just my personal opinion.

Before I get carried away, let us take a view of the design. The XK8 has a curvaceous body with a long hood and a stunning side profile. This is actually the few instances where I would be glad to choose the coupe over the convertible. But still, the convertible is beautiful and unique in its own way. Remember the long hood I mentioned? Underneath that lies a V8 engine with a soul fit for grand touring. It came in a 4 litre avatar at first and stretched to a 4.2 in later models. They had a ZF automatic transmission and the supercharged versions came with the luxury of a transmission built by Mercedes-Benz. Some complain that it came only with the automatic and not a manual. But if you look at the XK8 from a grand touring perspective, that is what suits it the most. The XK8 is a sedate, but growling grand tourer and not a drifter’s dream. Apparently, it does 155 mph, which is an electronic limit. Wonder how much more its capable of. Do you know? Let me know in the comment section down below.

Classic design with modern performance and features. Some feel its not in a very good position and compromise, but I politely disagree. Perhaps Jaguar’s so called “Dark era” has actually produced some of its most amazing machines. That is, if you ignore the reliability problems associated with them. The XK8 came with plastic timing belt tensioners which were well known for snapping off and taking the engine down with them. But replace them with metal units and the problem has been fixed from its root. This, I like. The V8 is otherwise quite solid. Although you must be aware that some still have nikasil engine liners. If its been replaced, then no worries.

This is a true bargain in the second hand market. Hope the prices don’t go up as people understand their true value and worth. The XK8 is thus, an affordable dream, as long as you get a good one, that is.

–  Abhyjith. K. Ashokan

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