Howdy,


How many 2003 Super V8's where imported to the US? Doesn't seem like very many based on the fact that there is only a single listing current between cars.com, autotrader.com, and eBay...


Thanks,

 

The total production for the X308, XJ8 was 126,260 from September 1997-December 2002.


Therefore no X308 super V8s were made in 2003.

SWB Super V8 = 76
LWB Super V8 = 2387
VDP Supercharged = 788

 

1997-2002 UK model years = 1998-2003 US model years

 

Yep, they are funny over the pond, but it still equates to less than 500 per, year and that is including both standard and long wheelbase versions together.


I could not find any year specific production numbers, but at an average of less than 10 per week for the whole world, it is no wonder that there are not many for sale in the US.

 

Those are the numbers given in Nigel Thornley's book "Jaguar, All The Cars" and he mentions that the VDP Supercharged was produced in all years from 1998-2002 (1999-2003MY USA)

He also mentions separate production quantities for the regular VDP, 21'081 units, this is separate to the UK/EU models like Sovereign or Executive.

The Wikipedia article (yeah I know, *very credible source*) states "The Daimler and Vanden Plas cars were also available with the supercharged engine otherwise found only in the XJR. This model was named the Daimler Super V8. In the US market, this combination was available only as a special order though 2001 (with these cars identifiable by their "Vanden Plas Supercharged" rear badging). For US model years 2002 and 2003, the equivalent Super V8 model was then offered. These Supercharged long-wheelbase variants...."

So for me, i read that to be; the production figures for the "VDP Supercharged" from 1998-2002, cover the USA-delivered VDP S/C for 1999-2001, and the Super V8 from 2002-2003 together, for the total of 788 units only.

Then the production numbers stated for the Daimler Super V8, are the cars outside of the US.

Yes the VDP's were the Daimler cars sold in the US, with the fluted grille and boot plinths. But the Super V8 had plain grille/plinth, so where does that fit? According to the VIN's they are also Daimlers, the VINs start with SAJD the D is for Daimler, so all the VDP models are technically Daimlers (by the VINs), but there are specific production quantities given for VDP's, separate to the Daimler-badged cars. Safe to say that the supercharged cars were also listed separately, i.e. the VDP S/C (and Super V8).

Only 788x sold in the US, for the 99-01 VDP S/C and 02-03 Super V8 combined. Very exclusive.

 

I actually got those numbers from an old issue of Jaguar World Monthly, where they got them from I have no idea.


You sir, seem to have a much more informed/detailed source than myself and I thank you for sharing.

 

I had the vdp-sc production numbers mesmerized. I know that in 1998 it was 86 made and in 1999 it was 165. I remember that 2003 had the most. Over 300 plus. I have a VDP with the Supercharger option. The power with comfy ride. The rear doors are hilariously long! She's in Naples Now. I. Will see her on Saturday. She will be serviced, waxed and then I will floor her.

 

That ties in with the total of 788x pretty well.

 

Stop laughing at my rear doors

 

But you've gotta admit, they are really long. I mean look how much bigger the rear door windows are than the fronts...

 

I love how obnoxiously long the rear windows are lmao , i bought an 03 super v8 back in February in Virginia for 4 grand , i finally got it running correctly with no leaks , not to mention is has rust issues , i way over paid, but only because i knew the rarity by reading this post before , so thanks to everyone for this informative thread , much appreciated

 

$4k for an '03 superV8 is a very fair price, not overpaid at all

 

Daimler Super V8 has fluted radiator grille and boot plinth (at least mine has, UK specs car).

 

I really like the "L" and VDP styling, the standard XJ8 is lacking in rear legroom and the extended wheelbase amply addresses this. I think those longer doors and rear glass give the car a majestic look, and the longer, straighter roof line also gives a cleaner, sleeker look and adds to a more stylish overall appearance. (IMHO)

I stole this picture from an earlier post by forum member vdpnyc, as I think it is a wonderful example of the differences in body style between the standard and LWB versions.


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