1998 Jaguar Vanden Plas 4.0 V8
Summary:
A stunningly beautiful, comfortable, performance sedan
Faults:
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.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th May, 2003
22nd Feb 2004, 21:01
Excellent review, accurate and honest. I'm an XJ8 owner, 1998 vintage, and have also replaced with water pump. (Also, watch for the throttle body. If not kept clean it can cause stalling.)
As an ex-BMW 740i owner, I agree with this reviewer that a Jag won't take the corners as fiercly or make you feel like an F22 fighter jet, with the BMW's red-lit instrument display. Instead, the Jag's walnut and wood embrace will transport you to a more elegant and leisurely time. And because it's a Jaguar, it's the real deal, not a wannabe.