Looking at xj8 vanden plas and in need of some advice
 

Well I'm new to jaguar forums and I was looking for some good information on whether to buy a 1998 XJ8 Vanden Plas with 106k miles. I've read some consumer reviews on the car and some wrote of a great all around car and others of horrible reliabilty and build quality. So I'm wondering if anyone had some good advice on whether this is a good investment or if im just gonna be throwing money into it...

Thanks...
Mike

Personally I would recommend an 02 or newer XJ8. Unless the 98 has had several updates there could be trouble with some items such as timing chains, water pump and the infamous nicasil cylinder coating. Although since the engine has survived 106K miles the nicasil issue may not be a problem. I have seen some really good buys on 2002 and 2003 XJ8s.

Doug

Mike, I just bought a 2003 XJ8 Vanden Plas Supercharged a few days ago for what I think is a great deal with 69,500 miles on it. I purchased it after reading this forum for a long time. I just joined a few minutes ago and here we go........I decided not to go pre-2001/2002 for the issues listed throughout this site, as I am not mechanically inclined. I just know what I like and this is it. I am the type of person to baby a car and use lots of preventive maintenance on her. Good luck in your search and I will post more as I love forums...

Terry

Doug,
This is my first post ever to a forum. You said you know of some really good buys on 2002 and 2003 XJ8's. I am looking for '02-'03 Zircon XJ8, low mileage, excellent condition. I just "totaled" my 2002 van den plas. I am in Louisiana.