I've been thinking about a jag for quite some time now. I like the XJS and the XK8. Not 100% sure which I like better. If I go with an XK8 I will get as new as I can afford, 2003 or later, based on what I've read on the forums. If I decide on an XJS I will research the best years, 6 or 12 etc before I buy. I thought I'd conduct a little poll on both forums and get opinions and also see if I could find the opinion of somebody who has had both. Likes, dislikes, good, bad and the ugly.

Thanks!

 

I've owned both (A 89 XJS V12 Coupe and a 97 XK8 Coupe) and the XK8 is MUCH faster and "Better" than the XJS. The XKR, in turn, is another significant step above the XK8.

 

I still do have both cars, just depends what you are after.

IMHO The XK is light years ahead of the XJS in almost every aspect but there is something very nice about driving an XJS and if you settle for an one I would go for as late as possible 6ltr celebration model

If you go for an XK make sure it is an R it will make you smile every day

 

I'm shopping an XJS V12, 96 for a project car right now, like I need a 4th Jaguar. I already have the XK8. Agree with all the comments here (except the XKR one, for different reasons than smiles probably). The XJS and XK* are very different cars, as said.

An XJS with an AJ16 will be very reliable and very basic as compared to the XK*s, probably one of the best engines Jaguar ever designed. The V12 is going to be a "tinker's dream" engine...finicky as hell and not for the amateur or beginner, IMO, especially at that circa.

 

I just sold my 1988 XJ-S earlier this summer and purchased my 1999 XK8. I actually blew a head gasket on the V12 which is considered to be a catastrophic failure of the engine. I owned the XJ-S for six years and can tell you it is time consuming and expensive to maintain. The XK8 on the other hand is more modern and reliable. My advice to you is that if you are going to purchase a XJ-S buy the best example you can find with no issues. Be patient and thorough in your search. If not, it will never run right. I love everything about the XK8 from its reliability to performance, handling, fuel consumption and looks.