BF Classified: 1998 Jaguar XK8 Convertible

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: Deep River, Connecticut
• Mileage: 51,000 Shown
• Chassis #: SAJGX2246WC020655
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 4.0-Liter V8
• Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic

The current owner bought this 1998 Jaguar XK8 Convertible approximately five years ago. They purchased it from the third owner and have used it very sparingly for summer outings. It has a genuine 51,000 miles showing on its odometer and represents an affordable way for someone to slip behind the wheel of a classic British drop-top. There is scope to improve the car’s appearance, but the non-urgent nature of its shortcomings means that the buyer could address them as time and circumstances allow. With a new home beckoning, the owner has listed the Jaguar exclusively with us at Barn Finds, with an asking price of just $7,200.

Jaguar launched the XK8 in 1996, marketing its latest offering as a genuine Grand Tourer in Coupe and Convertible form. Our feature XK8 is the latter, rolling off the Coventry line in 1998. The company offered a vast range of paint shades that year, but a color like the Titanium Pearl gracing this car’s exterior is among the classiest. The owner is candid about its condition, indicating that the paint is sun-baked across the hood, left fender, left door, and the deck lid. The problem isn’t horrendous, and the owner believes that a detailing specialist skilled in paint correction might be able to eliminate it. Otherwise, the Jag presents nicely. The panels are straight, and the functioning Black power top fits as tight as a drum. Delving below the surface reveals that while some mechanical components carry a dusting of surface corrosion, this beauty is rock-solid and rust-free. This classic features fog lights at both ends, and the only functional issue is that one low-beam projector light is inoperative. The trim and glass are excellent, and the chromed alloy wheels sparkle in the sunlight.

This XK8 offers the features most people would expect from a luxurious vehicle bearing the Jaguar badge. There are acres of supple leather and walnut, airbags, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, 8-way power bucket seats with “air pillow” lumbar support, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt/telescopic wheel, and a Jaguar stereo with a trunk-mounted CD changer. The first owner selected Ivory trim, a shade that can develop marks and stains if not treated respectfully. However, this interior looks exceptional. The seats look inviting, with no wear or other issues. The remaining upholstery and the carpet are equally impressive, and the walnut trim has aged elegantly. The console armrest is worn, and the cupholder is secured with a screw to prevent it from opening spontaneously. Otherwise, everything inside this XK8 works as it should.

Jaguar enjoys a reputation for producing classics with excellent performance, and the XK8 is no exception. The 4.0-liter V8 generates a factory-quoted 290hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque. Power is fed to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission, with power steering and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes reducing the driver’s workload and improving occupant safety. As a luxurious Grand Tourer, the XK8’s curb weight of 3,870 lbs is unsurprising. However, its ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under seven seconds demonstrates that it effectively utilizes the V8’s power and torque. This Convertible has a documented 51,000 miles on its odometer, with the current owner adding only 2,500 miles over the five years since acquiring it. They recently treated the Jaguar to a fluid change, performed by a classic car specialist. It has a new battery, and potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition that runs and drives exceptionally well.

After staggering through the British Leyland years that damaged the brand’s reputation due to poor build quality and other issues, Jaguar came into its own once it became part of the Ford empire, producing some extremely elegant and comfortable vehicles that weren’t prone to the problems for which the marque had once been the poster child. This 1998 XK8 Convertible emerged from that era, and while it isn’t perfect, it is in excellent mechanical condition and a turnkey proposition the buyer can immediately enjoy. It is worth scrolling through the image gallery to gain insight into what this Jaguar offers. If a classic British Convertible has been on your Wish List, this affordable XK8 would be a strong candidate for your garage.