Hi I am a new member and I need help ..
Please forgive me if my questions can seam candid or annoy some of you.

I have a BMW and will be purchasing my first Jaguar very soon so I m doing a bit of research before buying one.
I am hesitating between two different models a 2001-20003 model
Or
2004

Can i please get your comments on the those 2 different models?
I m not looking for an XJR but rather a Vanden PLas model
Also I was not able to find a link of the evolution of the 1999-2003 model( options etc )
Thank you for your help
T

 

Welcome to the forum Terry,

That's a very sensible approach to buying a Jaguar - do the research first.

Model names are very confusing because Jaguar used 'XJ8' for two very different models just as they had earlier used 'XJ6' on several from 1969 to 1999.

The 1997 - 2003 XJ8 is known here (and by dealers) with the factory reference X308 and the later 2003 - 2009 XJ8 is known as X351.

Follow this link XJ ( X308 ) XJ8 / XJR - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the X308 section and this one XJ ( X350 & X358 ) XJ6 / XJ8 / XJR - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the X350 section for help, advice and information.

The 'sticky' threads at the top of each of these section have much useful information on regular issues. Post a question in the appropriate section if you have specific questions or are seeking opinions from members with the model you are considering.

You may also like to visit the US Western Region section by following this link https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/mid-west-us-il-ia-mi-mn-mo-oh-wi-39/ to find other members in your region.

I hope you find the right Jaguar for you and are soon back posting details of your replacement for the BMW.

Enjoy the forum.

Graham

 

Welcome to this friendly Forum Terry,
I can't add anything to Graham's advice except that 2003/4 V8 engines eliminated some serious problems.
Enjoy your membership here.

 

Welcome to the forum Terry,

Good to have you with us.
Enjoy the forum.

If you haven't done so already you should add your car details to your signature to help others to help you.

 

Hi, welcome aboard Jaguarforums ....... good to have you here with us Terry




Any useful site information you may need such as how to post pictures, edit signatures, add videos,
use the search facility etc, can be found here within the following link Helpful_information

Please also take the time to check out the regional section for your area!
There are lots of members local to you with the same interests with info on local dealers and possible meets.
Regional - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum


I've manually upgraded you to Full forum access so you can better view the site and all its features

Please Jump on in and enjoy the site.................

 

Thank you guys for your prompt responses..
One of you mentioned that the 2003-2004 eliminated some serious engine issues
Could you please tell me what kind of problems?
I do tend to lean toward the 2001 -2003 style
But if the 2004 are better cars then it would for sure has an effect on my decision .
Thank you
Ps i ll post pictures of my car but its a BMW so not sure ou want see that...
T

 

Terry,

The early V8 engines (1997 - 2001) suffered problems with plastic timing chain tensioners. These can break allowing the chain to jump on the sprocket with disastrous results.

Jaguar had several attempts to rectify this with redesigned tensioners but it was only fully resolved with the metal tensioners introduced on the 4.2 in 2003. Many earlier V8's have now had these retrofitted but it's essential to check the work has been done or plan to do it immediately after purchase.

Cylinder head gaskets were also improved on the later V8's as was the Water Pump.

This isn't to say avoid early models but be sure to ask the right questions about any prospective purchase.

Graham

 

Thank you for the reply..
After doing my homework , I' m now ready to purchase . I have decided to go for. 2002-2003 ( x308 ) VDP i Ent care much for the shape of the 2004 -2007 they look like a Ford Tourus

The interior has to be off white ( love that ) and the color gold, champagne , or midnight blue or black
Under 75 k miles ...

Not on a be easy but .. I'm sure its possible ..

I also love the convertible but with the kid , not very practical... Thought it won't be my only car...hum..


T

 

welcome as always, buy the best maintained, lowest mileage example of whichever model you like best.

 

welcome

 

Now you've done your homework on the forum and know what to look for, check the Service History of any potential purchase very closely. With any Jaguar, regular maintenance is critical.

Enjoy the search. I hope you're soon back telling us about your 'new' VdP.

Graham

 

Terry, can I just jump in here for a sec...you have narrowed it down to a really nice model. You also said you have done your research, but I'd like to suggest a couple of matters that were not explicitly mentioned in this thread. Forgive me if you have already ruled them out.

1. the 2004+ model is an aluminum car whereas all cars through 2003 were steel (I'm using North American model years).

2. In my humble opinion, the 1995-1997 6-cyl VDP is not that different in driving experience or looks from a later V8 ones. But they are easier to work on and have a simpler electrical system/harness. Personally, I prefer the rectangular syling to the interior over the ovoid shapes that came with the V8 cars. The sixes are durable engines.

3. You may find a bit more "Jaguarness" in the older still 4.0 XJ40 VDP, since it is a bit more classic-looking with it's pared-down art deco sensibilities. It is just an earlier version of the 2002-2003 car, not as radically different as any completely different model.

As Tommy said, "buy the best maintained, lowest mileage example of whichever model you like best"

Thanks for indulging me.

 

Pics are a MUST Terry....

 

Still looking for the right car .. I thought it would be easier then i thought to make up my mine . I guess i m a bit scared to buy one that would need lots of future repairs .
Lately however i have been leaning toward a Sport or even and XJR model . I love the VDP too
Found a nice 2003 XJR with 70000 miles for 12 k and a nice 2003 sport with 68000 miles for 8800 dollars ( but hate the after market rims ) ...for sure after reading your comments I will look for a 2003 because of the changes made to the engine or a 2001 2002 with the changes made to the car ...

 

Terry,

Keep looking - the right one for you is out there.

Graham

 

Saw a nice XJR for 9 k with 90000 miles From a private party and a super nice one with 61 k from a dealer but no records though the price is 13k seams a bit still
The other 2003 sport with 68k for $8800 is in great shape but has 20' in rims and i think that's ugly , no he does not have the original ones