I want to buy a convertable XK8, what year and package do you think gives the most value for your investment?

 

I would look into a 2003 and later. Most of the bugs such as the water pump with plastic impeller and cam chain tensioners with plastic that is cracking and falling apart, have all been updated, saving you at least $1700 (the price I was quoted by an independent Jag shop to do the work including parts).

If you can afford the cost of an 2003 and later XKR that would be my choice of Jaguar to buy. More "bang" for your buck!

 

I love the hood vents on the XKR!!

 

I would look into a 2003 and later. Most of the bugs such as the water pump with plastic impeller and cam chain tensioners with plastic that is cracking and falling apart, have all been updated, saving you at least $1700 (the price I was quoted by an independent Jag shop to do the work including parts).

If you can afford the cost of an 2003 and later XKR that would be my choice of Jaguar to buy. More "bang" for your buck!

A late assembly date 2002 picks up the same improvements at less cost - make sure the assembly date is 11/01 or later. The cost is substantially less in the used market, and the power more than adequate for my needs.DaleD

 

I ended up with a 2003 and I'm very glad I did. I was looking at earlier model years, but I hadn't done my research and I wasn't aware of the things Greenjewel just mentioned. I would have been very disappointed if I had bought a 2001 and then realized that I needed to do a significant amount of work before taking it on a long trip. Earlier model years might be good deals, you just need to be aware of the potential problems.

 

I also recommend model year 2003 or later. Also read the FAQ - I used that a lot when I started looking. Here's the URL:https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=29800


Don't ignore the pre-purchase inspection as well. My first targeted car that I almost bought had a slight crack gasket. That $100+ inspection cost saved me from having to fly to ATL to pick up the car.

Be patient and thorough, use all the sources. I started with eBay - but ended up getting an XKR through Craigslist.

 

I looked for about two years and found a one owner Silverstone with all of the known problems already addressed by the first owner. If you can find a car owned by an enthusiast and with the history of the car, almost any year would be acceptable. If you want shear torque and performance look for a XKR. If your buying for investment look for one of the limited edition models.
Doug
2001 XKR Silverstone