Jaguar XK8 Coupe (1996 - 2005) 4.2 2d Auto (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like quality and good looks - which the XK8 is. Every time I drive the I remember I'm lucky to own it.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Although most people think its great (and it turns heads when it's clean) there are some who question why I would buy a car like this. Frankly the driving experience is so good I don't really care what others think anymore!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes I would - the model I have was manufactured just a few months before the 96 - 05 XK8 was discontinued and nearly all of the issues with the pre-2000 model appear to have been sorted. I don't like the XK design which replaced the XK8 in 2006 and wouldn't buy one.

What are you likely to buy next?

Don't know - will think about that in a few years time.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£12,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

I was trading in my previous car and I got a good deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Its great looks, performance and affordable secondhand prices.

What was the dealer like?

Excellent. The car was 7 years old when I bought it, had been kept in a heated shed for the previous 4 years and done only 4000 miles in total in those 4 years. It had been detailed and was like a new showroom car. Basically it sold itself so the independent dealer didn't have to do a great deal to sell it to me.

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic. In urban conditions, smooth, quiet, responsive, you glide along in perfect peace ... the engine is almost inaudible... well it is a GT not a sports car. But on the open road, select Sport mode or kickdown the accelerator and wow! the growl of the exhaust and the acceleration has to be experienced ... the whole driving experience brings a smile to your face.

What's it like to park?

I find it ok - the previous owner fitted front parking sensors to supplement the standard rear sensors so you always get plenty of warning if you are too close to something.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Minor niggles and routine maintenance only. New battery last winter. Front offside top suspension bush was creaking so I had it replaced by my local garage. Some headlight condensation (very common XK8 problem) but had it cleared up ok.

What's most practical about your car?

Not a lot but I didn't buy it for practicality. Only kids or small people in the back seats! It's surprising how much you can get in the boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Nothing specific - all of the gadgets are good.