1997 Jaguar XK8 review from North America
"Vrooooom!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Minor electrical fault - passenger window would roll down and inch or two on its own during heavy rainfall. Fixed under warranty (leaking weather-strip in door, and window motor damaged by water).
Headlight bulbs failed with unexpected regularity. Easy to self-replace, and spare bulbs provided free by dealer after I said I didn't need a service tech do the work.
Water pump failure at 24K. Replaced under warranty. Excellent prompt and attentive service including all transportation costs covered by Jag (including a $200 ferry fare - round trip - to get to/from the dealer).
General comments?
Elegant, sophisticated, comfortable, beautiful and powerful.
The seats on the early XK8 models, with the fixed headrest, were not perfect. A fully adjustable headrest would have been perfect.
Recommended reviews
  | 1997 - XK8 Coupe 4.0 V8 w/ ZF 5-speed A reliable show-stopper! |
| A reliable car, my Jaguar! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 18000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 30000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 23rd June, 2008 |