Guess this is an old discussion but need input from jag lovers. I'm looking to purchase used xkr for Sunday driver. 2005 coupe with 60k or 2002 cont with 42k. Both excellent condition. From dealers Can't make my mind up. Anyone have any intell or good fish stories?

 

I think you need to do some editing there!

I've had both a 2001 and a 2005 XK8 Coupe and would have either again. Possibly the later one in preference as it's a more developed package but the body design differences make it a personal preference.

Your choice really comes down to whether you want a Coupe or a Convertible.

Graham

 

More upgrades with 2005, but also more expensive. Original body style with 2002 (better looking IMHO) and less money. Plus you have the difference between coupe and convertible. Since it is going to be a weekend car, I'd think a 'vert is the way to go.

Get any maintenance history if they have it and check the DIY sticky on the main forum page for what to look for when buying.

Then search the forum. TONS of cuss and discuss threads on pre-2003 vs. later models.

 

Agreed. Read the FAQ sticky threads carefully. There are numerous pros and cons that you need to be familiar with before you pull the trigger on your checkbook. Be aware that these vehicles seem to do better with fewer issues when they are driven regularly as opposed to sitting around as garage queens....

 

+1 for those reasons.

 

Thanks. Forum was great. Information was scary. I'm going to look for a jag with records. I'm not much for gambling. Wish me luck in my pursuit. Cappy

 

I bought my 2002 with very little history. I'm already into it for about 5000.00 in mechanical work. It was totally neglected. But looked engine amazing when I got it. Had I known what I know now, I'd have driven home without it.

 

On the other hand, I also bought mine with no history, and it has proved to be in top shape (with exception of fuel pump, which appears to be very common no matter what history is available). I'll acknowledge a bit of luck, but sometimes you just have to throw the dice and go. My 10 yr old (when purchased) XK8 has proved to be much more reliable than my 2 yr old Lexus (when I bought it). Truthfully, I expected the opposite.

Steve

 

From what I've seen, some issues are just inherent with these cars. And no matter how much up keep, they're there. At their age, hoses, sensors, shocks, mounts and such are simply going to go bad no matter how much the car is maintained. I think I just had the bad luck to get on that no one addressed these issues before me. And I simply wasn't aware of just how extensive these issues were.
I can do some basic work but so many of these issues were simply out of my comfort zone.

 

How comfortable are you working on the car yourself? Most of the issues with these cars can be repaired with a basic knowledge of repairs, a good set of tools and a good internet connection. Do your homework on this forum, check the Stickies for XK8/XKR and know what you are getting into. Most of the issues with both cars would be found on any car of that age. Coolant leaks are common, hoses, thermostat, thermostat housing, coolant expansion tank, tunnel hoses, water pump. (I replaced all of these in the first year) Secondary cam chain tensioners must be replaced on 1996-2002 vehicles. Convertible tops have their own issues, search "green shower". Now on the up side. For a minimal investment you get one of the most beautiful cars ever made. A joy to own and drive. There is nothing like dropping the top and going on a Sunday drive through the country side. Good luck with the search.

 

Very well stated....

The key is to be able to handle the vast majority of maintenance and repairs yourself with the assistance and guidance of this forum. If you cannot do that, you will wind up throwing boatloads of money into your car....

 

Convertibles are all I consider.........but I'm a swing'n bachelor. At the marina, at the casino valet, under the canopy at fine dining restaurants...In the city under the skyscrapers...on a moonlight drive down the coast....the rural Sunday drives through agricultural areas....


If it ain't a vert, you're missing out