I just removed the center and two small mufflers from my XK8 and replaced them with pipes (including an "H" connector - a must! ) while retaining the original factory rear mufflers.

I COULDN'T BE HAPPIER!

It went from a mild "purr" to an incredible "growl" - and it was EXTREMELY AFFORDABLE. A little less than $250 (US) out the door!

Virtually no drone ... and very acceptably "loud" when you really bury you foot on the accelerator.

I made a "Before/After" video - WITH THE B/A SOUNDS - that I put on YouTube:

Jaguar XK8 Performance Exhaust Modification - Easy and AFFORDABLE!

 

That is a nice compromise. Not overtly obnoxious like a few I have heard. Good choice and nice work. Looks better underneath too!

Personally I like it quiet when I am driving. I think my X350 got me spoiled on power/performance without the need for volume.

Anyway my Triumph Daytona makes enough noise to keep me content and my neighbors awake.

 

dude! that was incredible! legit sounds like a 500+hp sports car

 

Yes ... I'm extremely stoked with the sound now!
I think Jag would have sold a ton more XK8s if they hadn't dampened the sound down so much!

 

Sounds great

 

A definite improvement in sound. Was there a problem with the ECM/O2 sensor or is there one on the 1998.That would be a consideration on later models like my 2006. Removing the CATS on the later models have reputed to caused all manner of problems with the O2 ratio and thrown the ECMs into a total death spiral.

 

This looks like all the exhaust modification was done after the cats so it wouldn't cause any problems unless your O2 sensors were already on their last legs.

 

Just did the same thing. It's pretty loud, but great sound. I have a minor drone at 70 mph or so. Other than that its pretty easy and pretty clean. I do think some owners would not like how loud it is. Much more of a throaty sports car than refined ride.

 

Switching my exhausts to stainless steel is on my Summer 2019 To-Do plans. However I'm planning something less aggressive than RonXK8 See below from the UK's DCR Autoparts where he only removes the intermediate mufflers and keeps the front and rear.
Dave C Roche (quote)
"We also have the intermediate system with silenced front and rear sections - see:https://www.xk8-parts.com/2015/03/xk8-xkr-sports-stainless-steel-exhaust-system-silenced-front-and-over-axle-boxes-and-straight-through-rear-link-pipes/Very nice sound - £595 + shipping. I think this has a nice balance and not to an aggressive sound."

BTW I'm considering changing out the CATS while I'm doing this job.

 

I saw your pictures on instagram earlier today! It was a surprise to see that you are a forum member.

Btw, my XKR has a similar setup: removed before axle mufflers and center resonator was replaced with an x-pipe. The rearmost mufflers are still in place. My setup sounds very similar to the OP, but I sometimes get little pops when I let off the throttle.