Hello all,

I know this question has likely been asked before, but I wanted to get your expert advice.

I'm looking at a couple XJ8s. Their both under $5,000, and they both seem to be in decent condition

One is a 2003 XJ8, short wheel base and is, I believe the base model. This one has 86,000 kilometres, which roughly translates to 53,000 miles. There's a bit of rust near the rear wheel arches, but nothing too bad. The owner says that it's the original engine, that it runs and has no mechanical or electrical issues with it.

The other is 1999 XJ8 Vanden Plas. This one has 144,000 kilometres, which translates into approx. 89,000 miles. I don't have much more information on this one, as the owner hasn't responded yet. Now from my research on this forum, and some experiences that others have told me, usually we would want to avoid 1998 - 2000 XJ's. But considering its run this long, I don't know if the major issues that plagued the early X308s would be much of an issue. Would it?

Which do you guys think is the smart buy, providing that they both are in decent condition?

Also, other than the traditional Nikasil, timing tensioner, and water pump problem, what else should I be cognizant of?


Thanks all!

 

The 2003 will have no Nikasil, timing tensioner, or water pump problems.

If it has CATS suspension, which as a base model it probably does not, that can be expensive when replacing shocks.

No brainer on the 2003, newer, lower miles and the problem areas you mentioned were sorted out by the time it was built. Rust? Depends on how bad it is.

The VDP has a few more options, tray tables, and the extra leg room in the back, only matters if you carry passengers back there a lot.
Vector

 

Agreed that a much lower mileage 4 year newer vehicle for the same money is a wiser choice, but disagree about the vdp being only a small upgrade.

VDP exteriors look quite different due to lots of chrome everywhere and fluted grills and trunk lip, also the long wheelbase combined with smaller wheels on taller-sidewall tires changes the visual proportion.

The interior is substantially gussied up, if having a Rolls Royce quality interior matters to you then the vdp is a major upgrade.

My only regret is not buying a Super V8, I'd consider any other x308 a downgrade from the vdp.

 

RUST!! Check for rust as these cars can rust easily and quickly if not looked after.
See this thread which will help you on your way with areas to check: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...onsider-59153/

Other areas include the sill ends behind the front wheel arches, the lips on all 4 wheel arches which are prone to holding mud, the areas behind the front shock absorber which are often covered with a build up of dirt which can hide the rust.

Good Luck!

 

Go with Vector's advice. Wear is due to miles and age: the 03 is much better bet. Moreover, things that often fail on X308s have pretty much been fixed by the 03 model year: water pump, tensioners, software upgrades, tougher transmission A drums.

Final thought if you are going to work on these yourself: older they are the more rusted the freaking bolts . . . . had to use an 8foot breaker bar to change rear shocks.

 

Go with the '03. Like-for-like, anything leather, plastic, and rubber will be in better-to-much-better condition. The timing chain upgrade alone is worth it.

Can't speak for the upgraded A-drum, as it didn't help my '03.

With either car though, expect some added love/maintenance $$$/time (depending on if you or a shop will be maintaining it) during the first year of ownership.

 

Holy Moley! Yea I didn't think of that Jhartz; thanks!

Yes I do expect it, and can't wait to get started on it Amehorn!

 

There is a value body upgrade for the 5 speed ZF transmissions that is alleged to improve the reliability and can be installed w/o removing the transmission. A good preventative measure.