Hi all,
Greetings from NorCal Napa Valley. I'm looking at buying an XJ - either '97 XJ6, '02-'03 XJ8, or either of these year ranges in XJR. I have done alot of research and reading and would like your input as to the reliability and/or issues of these years. Are there any years that are the best? I do my own repairs and service so that is not an issue. I would simply like to start with the best platform but really like the interiors of the post '98 XJs. However, reliability is key for me so if that means pre '97, so be it.

Thanks very much, any and all input welcome.

Mikey.

 

Hi Mikey Welcome!

A couple a years ago I was in the same situation as you are regarding the choice between the X300 straight six or the early V8 in X308. I choosed the latest XJR 1997 at that time though I liked the interior better in the 308. The stories about nicasil & tensioner problems scared me at that time. Today I still enjoy the XJR "brutal", an excellent car without troubles, but two years ago I bought my latest Jaguar an XK8 2000 Convertible and made the updates needed. (tensioner & chains) Today I have two excellent reliable Jaguars (cars) and if you asked me to choose between them I have no answers to give you. Let the feelings decide!

Regards
Joachim

 

Thanks for the reply, Joachim.

Yea, the Nickasil thing is almost deal breaker for me; I'm more of an old-school cast iron block kinda guy . Also, not a big deal to do the V8 tensioner repair but it would be nice if it's already done. So, please educate me - other than the tensioner, are these cars (generally) as reliable as, say, my Dodge PU or any other well maintained car?

Thanks again,
Mikey

 

Hi

I would say that both the X300 & X308 are reliable cars with very few problems. A well maintained car with a good history will last and give you
joy for a long period of time.

The only warning I have is!! Once you owned one of the models you are trapped for the rest of your life with Jaguars which is really nice.
Joachim

 

Welcome Mikey, just my 2€, it would be the 96/97 XJR for me, it seems that everyone loves them.

 

I would go for '97 XJR , I like interior better than X308 too . Performance wise , X308 slightly be more head turning but X300 XJR is not to be sneezed at all

 

Thanks for the responses, fellas. So really, my only concern is availablitiy of parts. There are a few places here in the states to get them but are parts generally available? Also, what type of life can be expected of these engines?

On a side note, what got me into the whole Jag thing was my dad. He has an '87 Series III which he has owned for 21 years which I am driving now (since I'm waiting on parts for my Dodge PU) and have driven before. He just spent 8 grand (8,000 dollars for those not familiar with English slang ) for new upholstry and paint and it is probably the most beautiful car I've laid eyes on. Even though the suspension is wasted (super old and needs refreshing), it's the smoothest car I've ever driven.

So.. Jag it is for me. I love the SIII lines but have never really examined an X300/308 up close. Really looking forward to it.

Thanks again,
Mikey