Hi all:

I am debating between an excellent condition 1997 XJ6 and an excellent condition 2003 XJ8. I have read inline 6 and 1997 is superior to the 2003. Has anyone owned both? Would apprecite an insight and advice on this. Thanks much!

 

I owned both but had v8 engine in x308 and v6 in my x350 but heres my opinion of both cars:
Th older XJ has a better ride at low speeds on poor surfaces and the newer has better ride at motorway speeds but not by much.

The newer model feels taughter in most aspects but seems to be affected more by sidewinds.
I prefer the lower look of the older model but like the extra cabin and boot space in the new one.
From the front the new model looks like an X type to the untrained eye.
My xj6 x350 has similar fuel consumption to an x type with 3.0L due to its ally body.

I have had 2 XJ's 1x S Type and best of all an XK8.

Joe

I have also had Mercs, C type best of which was a C32 AMG
BMW's if the Jag inline 6 is as good as theirs it must be special.

But a Jaguar in my eyes is the real McCoy.

 

Just a thought, the X350 did not start selling in the US until 2004, does the original poster mean to compare the X350 with the early X300 or is it the V8 engine X308 that he is referring to ?

 

If thats the case it will at least have 4.2 v8 with new tensioners so should be a decent car.
Both are great cars so guess its down to choice and preference?

 

I am actually looking to compare the X300, X308 and X350.

I did own a 2007 XJ VDP with the 4.2 litre V8. The car was ok, but didn't love it--engine light always coming on and myriad issues.

thanks

 

Engine light (MIL) is atypical and the fault just wanted finding and fixing. Usually not even vaguely rocket science.

 

All of them have their issues. The 07 VDP is the x350 so you have that experience already. I find the engine on the x350 extremely reliable.