Be aware you are contemplating the purchase of a used exotic Euro luxury sedan. While Jaguar’s X-308 series was a paragon of reliability compared with its German rivals, it requires the attention of either a dedicated hobbyist or a specialty Jaguar service shop — and NOT a dealer!

The San Francisco Bay Area, where I live, is America’s Jaguar capital. For nearly 20 years I’ve been using an excellent Jag-only service shop in Oakland, Continental Imports. They’ve enabled me to afford, on a technical writer’s modest earnings, four successive X-308s. I’m now retired and hope my ‘01 XJR is the last car I’ll need.

But if I lived in a Red state where not even a Jag dealer is available, I wouldn’t take the plunge.

If, on the other hand, you’re in a major urban area I suggest you get in touch with the closest chapter of a Jag enthusiast’s club and get their advice on service shops, etc. If you can’t find a Jag service shop reasonably close by, think twice about buying an XJ.

 

jdip, another vote here for the X308.


Not just because I own them, but as others have mentioned, these are complex luxury cars which are growing old.


The window is closing on a time when you'll be easily able to find a 75,000mi "perfect" X308 VDP actually driven gently by a 'little old lady'.


The X350's have some more time to depreciate!


I suggest looking for a good XJR, or VDP. Only because they're each "out there" in their own way, and will give you a very special, distinctive ride. I also believe the best examples of either will be the first X308's to appreciate in value. (some decade!)

 

Hi guys,

I'm doing it! Buying the 1998 vdp with 78k miles. 3rd gen timing chain tensioners are already on (I checked!)
Service history is prestine, I am very excited and will post a pic when I get it.

Thank you all for your help!

 

Great!

Still don't be carried away on inspection, and be willing to walk away.
It might be the perfect car, it might be a whole lot less (not the first time this happens on this forum).

Good luck!

 

When you get her jdip, be sure to put pics of her in here... https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...ictures-52060/

 

I just listed my 2003 VDP on auto trader. It is a very nice well taken care of Jag. Take a look if you like I don't think you will be disappointed. Manchester, Ohio with a 937 area code. I'm not trying to advertise it here, I just thought you might be interested.
I almost forgot, I do have it listed here on the classifieds. I think you can get my # from my post.
Dave

 

I don't know, but perhaps Col Sandurz may be in the want? ...he's in SW OH.

 

Jdip, there's been a '98 VDP on Craigslist for a couple of months in Palm Springs. It's pearl white 78K and looks in good condition, asking $5900, which is too high, I think. I spoke to the seller, who is a realtor selling it for a client who moved back East. He said he didn't know if the Timing chain tensioner's were done. I'd assume not.
I bought my 74k, '99 VDP from Craigslist and I'm very pleased. I'm having the timing chain mod done on Monday along with water pump and thermostat housing. Take your time, look at a few. I looked at 6 ranging from $2300 to $7200 and only one didn't have a sagging headliner, (the one I bought). Good hunting.
Clive