My 99 XJ8 has the original factory British Racing Green paint. Is it base coat/clear coat or lacquer? It has a lot of minor scratches on it that I would like to try and work out. The car was garaged most of its life so the paint is in great condition. When its outside it is very very deep. Its a beautiful paint job and is an easy 10 footer, but I want to try and make it a 1 footer. Once you get up to it you can see a lot of minor flaws such as scratches and scuff marks, etc. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

Lacquer hasn't been used for some time... In the U.S. you can't even buy automotive lacquer anymore (trust me, I've tried!). If you're painting it, any urethane based base & clear will be fine. It is a two stage paint, so you have base, then clear. Do you have any photos of the damage to the paint? Perhaps if we can see what you're seeing, we can advise better on how to correct the paint.

 

I painted a MGTF for a friend using lacquer that we bought from TCP Global online. They have paint chips for almost every car worldwide all the way back to 1905 or so. They also have a excellent high gloss clear coat lacquer.

 

I am not really looking to repaint anytime soon. I would rather just fix the minor scratches on the existing paint. I will get some pictures posted in a week or so. I am on travel for work right now and do not have the car with me. Thanks.

 

My usual procedure for scratches and scuffs is :

1000 then 1500 grit wet and dry paper (start with 800 if really bad. But carefully!)
Random orbit buffer with rubbing compound. I'm a new fan of Presta products. Their Ultra Cutting Creme is great.
Random orbit buffer with a finishing polish.
Wax.

Just did the whole XJR this way. Just the worst spots got the wet & dry.

My only complaint is that the Collinite Fleet Wax, while being very tough and looking good, is a magnet for dust.

 

I used modern urethane paint & clear for touch ups and repainting only HALF of the car with good results. I recommend PPG for paint though. PPG and BASF are both excellent.

If you can get some photos up, I can give you better advice. Depending on the damage, painting may not even be required.