A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.4
Comfort & Interior
4.3
Running Costs
2.8
Practicality
3.2
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a classic British sports car that combines elegant styling with genuine performance credentials? The Jaguar XK8 represents everything great about 1990s automotive design, offering a compelling blend of luxury and sportiness that’s hard to find elsewhere. This grand tourer was Jaguar’s flagship coupe and convertible, featuring the company’s smooth V8 engine and sophisticated styling that still turns heads today. Unlike more common sports cars, the XK8 delivers genuine exclusivity with its distinctive Jaguar character and refined road manners.
The XK8 stands out in the classic sports car market by offering supercar looks at a fraction of the original price. With its long bonnet, flowing lines, and premium interior materials, it provides an ownership experience that rivals like the BMW Z4 or Mercedes SL simply can’t match for character and presence. The car’s naturally aspirated 4.0 litre V8 engine produces a wonderful soundtrack while delivering smooth, linear power delivery that makes every journey special.
Whether you’re seeking a weekend cruiser or an appreciating classic car investment, the XK8 offers remarkable value in today’s market. With proper maintenance, these cars provide reliable motoring combined with the unmistakable joy of Jaguar ownership. The combination of timeless design, engaging driving dynamics, and increasingly rare status makes the XK8 an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want something truly special.
What's the Jaguar XK8 Like to Drive?
The Jaguar XK8 was designed to be a proper grand tourer, and its 4.0 litre V8 engine delivers exactly that character. The naturally aspirated unit produces around 290 horsepower, providing smooth, linear power delivery that feels effortless. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 6.5 seconds, which remains respectable today. The engine note is pure theatre, with a deep V8 rumble that intensifies as you work through the gears. This refined convertible rewards smooth driving rather than aggressive inputs.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
4.0L V8 Naturally Aspirated
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Power Output
290 bhp
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0-60 mph
6.5 seconds
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MPG Combined
22 - 26 mpg
- Boot Space
- 283 litres (coupe) / 196 litres (convertible)
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Era appropriate)
How Comfortable Is the Jaguar XK8?
Open the door and you immediately understand why Jaguar has such a reputation for luxury interiors. The XK8’s cabin is a masterclass in traditional British craftsmanship, with rich leather covering nearly every surface. The seats are supportive and comfortable, perfect for long distance touring. Wood trim adds warmth and elegance, while the classic analog gauges provide clear information with timeless style. Everything feels substantial and well built, from the chunky gear selector to the satisfying click of the switchgear.
The Jaguar XK8 is a refined grand tourer that marries elegant styling with a smooth, powerful V8 engine. Its linear power delivery and deep engine note offer a theatrical driving experience, while the interior balances luxury and craftsmanship. However, high running costs and limited practicality detract from its appeal. A timeless machine for those prioritising exclusivity over everyday usability, though modern alternatives may offer better value.
Is the Jaguar XK8 Expensive to Run?
As a luxury grand tourer from the 1990s, the XK8 comes with running costs that reflect its premium nature. Fuel economy averages around 23 to 25 mpg in real world driving, so you’ll need to budget accordingly for petrol costs. Insurance can be expensive due to the car’s performance and desirability, though classic car policies may offer better value for occasional use vehicles. Parts and servicing require specialist knowledge, with costs significantly higher than mainstream cars.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Jaguar XK8
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Mercedes SL
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BMW Z8
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £15,000 | £18,000 | £45,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 4.0L V8 290hp | 3.2L V6 224hp | 4.9L V8 400hp |
| Power | 290 bhp | 224 bhp | 400 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 seconds | 7.8 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 24 mpg | 28 mpg | 20 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 283 litres | 240 litres | 180 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | V8 soundtrack, Classic styling, Luxury interior | Hardtop convertible, German reliability, Modern tech | Rare collectible, Exceptional performance, BMW heritage |
Jaguar XK8 Practicality & Boot Space
For a grand tourer, the Jaguar XK8 offers reasonable practicality with some important limitations. The boot space of 283 litres in the coupe is adequate for weekend trips or a good sized weekly shop. The convertible model sacrifices some cargo space for its folding roof mechanism, dropping to 196 litres. Inside the cabin, there are sufficient storage areas for everyday items, though space is at a premium compared to modern cars. The glovebox is reasonably sized, and door pockets provide handy storage for smaller items.
Absolutely love my XK8 convertible. The V8 sounds incredible and it never fails to put a smile on my face. Yes, it’s needed some work over the years, but the driving experience is worth every penny. Pure automotive theatre.
The Jaguar XK8 stands out as one of the last great traditional British grand tourers, combining stunning looks with genuine V8 performance. It offers an increasingly rare combination of naturally aspirated power, classic luxury interior, and timeless design that continues to age gracefully. The driving experience remains compelling, with smooth power delivery and refined road manners that make it equally at home on motorways or country lanes.
