The CarFax reference to corporate probably means that it was leased in the name of some company, large or small. Means nothing regarding maintenance.

Otherwise, your question is one asked every week. Here is a link to a recent thread with many responses. It provides a broad range of opinions. Search for others.

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...ght=test+point

 

It's a great car but it's definately not a "transportation appliance" like a Camray or something so don't expect flawless ownership. I'm very handy with a wrench and code reader and the car keeps me busy with smallish stuff - burnt out bulbs, dirty connectors, belt changes, plug changes, oil changes, alignment, that type of stuff. If you're the type to take it to the dealer for stuff like this you'll go broke fast.

Most wear items like filters are inexpensive, other parts can get pricey just because they are low volume production.

Pre 2000 models have a Nickisil coating on the cylinders that presents problems - look to see if it has a warranty replacement engine. That's really the only worry - you can read up on that elsewhere in the forum.

My 2000 (45,000 mi. for $17,000 in '08) is a blast and I get a lot of compliments!

 

I am at a loss why so many folks think Nikasil is such a problem. Yes, in parts of the world have very dirty petrol and wreaked havoc on Nikasil lined engines (BMW and Jaguar). California has had low sulfur petrol since 1994, and will pose no problem to a Nikasil lined engine if the car has spent it's life there. Other states all mandated low Sulfur since 1999, and only a few 1997-1998 model years should be considered suspect. As for all the other maintenance issues associated with Jaguars, in reality, the problems are actually rare. There are literally thousands of trouble free Jags on the road. I'm am glad they have the bad reputation, it keeps the price very low. Enjoying my 99 XK8 everyday in So. Cal.

My 2 cents.
Wheeble

 

Be sure to see if the engine has been replaced, if not, You will most likely have to replace the tensioners or risk buying a new engine 12k-14k. Look anywhere on the net for Tensioner problem, It has also been published in many magazines and on this board. I bought a 1999 XK8 Convert 78k miles for $8000, I immediately had to replace the "plastic" impeller in the water pump, thermostat, and all the tensioners and Timing chains for $3000, I also replaced all the front end bushings and shocks for another $2000. (realized it was low and my Upper Shock bushings were completely shot. The car is a Dream now..... but I got it at a good price from a neighbor because I knew what I was getting into. Do a Google search on 1997 - 2000 XK8's and you will see. As for the Niskal liner problem if the car starts right up, it's probably got good compression so ok. I love my XK8. I put new rims, put an X pipe in and new Exhaust and Intake. HID Headlights, rear parking sensor etc. It roars. But I new it was going to need some work, The tensioners are the biggest worry as long as it cranks
Oh the rear view mirrors sometimes leak. That is posted on here to so do several searches.

 

Pretty simple, these cars can be pricey to fix if you can't turn a wrench or do not want too for what ever reason. I just dropped 600 on front rotors and pads on my 97. To me that was a TON where as my 96 Tbird, had all new front brakes and all new back brakes, ALL PARTS, done for 500. Don't buy WINE cars if you are living on a BEER budget.

 

Ding! Ding! Ding! You hit the nail on the head! Budget some dollars for maintenance and repairs. Then get it and ENJOY it without regrets!

 

You left out MAJOR Dollars.

 

Don't tell me that, I'll just quit driving mine, and just look at it! LOL!