Posting this in both X300 and X308 forums. Currently 2003 XJ8 owner. Although it seems I’m always fixing something or chasing a code, I’m very happy with the XJ8 and it’s reliability. Don’t know much about X300 and assuming they are similar in many areas like reliability, ease to work on and part costs, correct? Any specific things to look at when inspecting. I’m out of town and found one a few miles away from where staying. Planning on looking at before head home. 132K miles.

 

Nope , the X300 is a perfect car

The 97 supercharged should have the upgraded GM transmission with the orange dot on it

 

I haven't owned an X308 yet, but you got the best year from what I have read. As for X300, they won't be as fast, but seem to be more reliable. I have had mine for 100,000 miles (has 225,000 now), and have only replaced normal wear items so far. Most reliable car I have ever owned. It is not an XJR, but those have pretty much the same reliability as base.

I saw your profile had some nice cars in your past! My brother also built a Fast Five Cobra. Most fun I ever had, took it out on Portland Intl Raceway ***** to the wall! I have also adored the 64 Tbirds, one of my all-time favorites :-)

 

I have a 97 XJR and it’s been more reliable than any car I have owned with just normal maintenance and repairs. Power is really nice being that it’s a land yacht and transmission shifting is awesome. Suspension is worth looking at as things wear out after 25 years. Great cars when taken care of.

 

I was lucky enough to have had both an X300 and an X308 XJR from new back in the day. The X308 was faster, but didnt really feel it, and there certainly wasnt the same drama when using kickdown. To my eye the X300 is better looking outside and in, hence why I reacquired my original X300 and use it to this day.