Why are 1997-1999 XK8s valued at more than later models like a 2003?

 

I haven't heard of this before, so I have to ask where these valuations are coming from (Blue Book, NADA, etc.)?

 

Perhaps a Canadian anomaly . . . absolutely the reverse here in Oz where the average for a top quality 4.2L with ZF6HP26 is perhaps at a +50% premium to the 4.0L equivalent with ZF5HP24. In either case, the SC XKR runs at about 20-25% premium on the NA XK8.

What is equally relevant at this top end of the market is that rarity, condition, service history and documentation is valued a lot higher than many recognize. Even colour has a bearing on value. I watched a dealer's sticker price on an early white XKR convertible tumble for months before it finally disappeared . . . to an auction, where it sold for peanuts!!

Cheers,

Ken

 

A similar scale of relative values (or perhaps more correctly "aspirational selling prices") applies here in the UK as in Australia. I'm surprised to hear Canada should be the opposite.

However, provenance and scarcity will always skew values. Good early XK8's are becoming harder to find and an exceptional condition, fully documented, one original owner car is likely to represent a peak that outstrips later models with multiple owners and less carefully maintained history.

Graham

 

because they are not...

 

I think it depends on the particular car... and with few on the market it only takes one or two to skew the average price in any given time frame.

We searched specifically for a 2002 XKR in Quartz/Oatmeal for the following reasons:

• We did not like the appearance changes in 2003: chrome gauge & shifter surrounds, no more Connolly leather etc.
• We wanted the Mercedes transmission
• Most 2002 models have 3rd gen metal cam chain tensioners from the factory. (Ours does.)
• The color combo was not available in 2003

My point is that we were willing to pay $15k for the car we bought with 78k miles in excellent condition, but we would not have paid the same for an older or newer model. Our purchase probably skewed the averages.

 

Perhaps there were less XK MODELS SOLD here in the great white north

I dont have earlier model data but would think it is about the same...