I think I am finally about to take the plunge and become a Jaguar owner.

I have searched high and low... and wanted something with a little magic. I have struck on a 1999 or 2000 XJR or Vanden Plas Super 8. I've had one inspected, a green 99 XJR, and the report was generally favorable (it needs a couple wood trim pieces replaced but mechanically it was fine). It is some distance from my home and I would either have to have it shipped or go and get it and drive it back (which might be a good way to bond with the new baby etc).

Also getting reports on 2 Super 8's later this week.

Can someone offer some opinions on some things:

1. Online sources for Jaguar-ology
2. Books to buy (Haynes manual?)
3. CD/DVD resources/manuals

I am selling my 1996 C Mercedes to get the new (pre owned) car. People warned me about maintenance on the Mercedes before I got it... but it has been remarkably trouble free and gave me 100k of sound service (I was the second owner).

Well that's kind of who I am I guess. When (if) the car comes through I will let you know what I got and post a pic.

 

Being between '98-00 you should beware nikasil issue .
I don't know much about the books but it's like buy anything but Haynes

 

Been reading about Nikasil. Sigh. Better safe than sorry I guess.

But I am confused. In one place I read that only the 2001 MY and later were nikasil free.... in another that if the last 6 characters of the VIN began with an "F", that you were safe.

???

I am a bit frustrated because I have been looking for a couple months and just haven't found the right car yet... but then I read several entries here saying that people looked a lot longer than I have to get a good one.

I guess I just have to be patient. If it costs me 1000 to save 10,000... then that is probably money well spent. But it's emotional too... I want that new car.