1998 Jaguar Vanden Plas review from North America
"A stunningly beautiful, comfortable, performance sedan"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 57,000 miles, the water pump failed.
General comments?
The Vanden Plas and XJ8-L have immense leg room in back; if you are a tall person (over 6'2") this car may be cramped for you. There is no car with more class anywhere. The cabin is like a luxurious english club.
It rides like a dream - quiet, but with a pleasant growl when pushed hard. It handles well. If you like performance handling this is not the car to get - get a BMW. If you like a quiet and controlled, comfortable ride, get this instead of a BMW. This is plenty fast - 0 to 60 in about 7 seconds, smooth and controlled at even 90+ mph.
Reliability has been fine; better than my old Ford Taurus. the water pump should not fail at 57,000, but there you go - if you want reliability perfection, get a Japanese appliance. I prefer class and style, and the stares I get. Mercedes and BMW are nice, but nothing garners the attention of a classy Jag, and this model is far, far better mechanically than the jags of yesterday.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Oh baby, what a car for the price |
| Beautiful Yet Not Built Worth a Darn |
All Jaguar Vanden Plas reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.0 V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 10000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 58000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 13th May, 2003 |