2005 Jaguar XK8 4.2 from North America

Summary:

A true modern classic -- and a lot of car for the money!

Faults:

Nothing, except a couple of the power seat adjustment controls don't do much of anything except make a vague humming noise.

General Comments:

The convertible model may not be the most practical in the Jaguar line-up if you have a family, as the back seat is pretty much unusable for anything but pets (with very well-trimmed claws) and groceries (that don't leak)... but if it's just for you and a special someone? Oh my goodness, who cares!?!

I swear, the 2003-2006 XK8 has to be one of the best deals out there in the luxury used car field. These are the best years of the 1997-2006 run -- they finally got it right, mechanically and reliability-wise. Originally priced in the lofty $70,000+ range, a nice one can be found for $11-19,000. The substantial V8 is surprisingly good on gas, especially on the highway. Parts and service are not really an issue, but it's a good thing to find a repairman who knows what he's doing and has some passion for the brand.

All that practicality and financial stuff aside, let's be honest -- the car is sex on wheels! The rich leather, build quality, appointments, history, the "British-ness", and gazing upon that amazing, full-width slab of burl walnut in front of you when you're cradled in the driver's seat -- priceless, really. You're driving a true modern classic.

A checklist:

Drop-dead gorgeous from every angle -- check.

Powerful and smooth -- check.

People will assume that you're much more wealthy, intelligent, confident, sporty, and sybaritic (you should look that up) than you really are -- check.

People will point, nudge and whisper, "Oooh, he/she drives a Jag convertible!" -- check.

They might also assume that you're a Newport Beach trophy wife (or husband), a successful hair stylist, a celebrity, or having a midlife crisis -- double check -- but again, who the heck cares!?!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th August, 2015

2005 Jaguar XK8 Convertible 4.2 V8 from North America

Summary:

A beautiful car to own and drive

Faults:

The main gasket to seal the convertible roof leaked, however Jaguar replaced it with a very professional service at the Jaguar dealer in Cincinnati.

General Comments:

The Jaguar XK8 convertible is a superb blend of design and engineering.

The handling of the car is excellent, and is peerless on a long run. It is a real pleasure to drive and exhilarating from start to finish.

The finish internally is excellent, and the outside shape constantly attracts favourable comments from passers by.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th June, 2006