Jaguar X308 XJ8 4.0 V8 Auto
1998 'S' Registration
290 BHP 'AJV8' Engine
1998 'S' Registration
290 BHP 'AJV8' Engine
Metallic Green with Oatmeal Leather
103k Miles - Low for the Year
MOT until February 2020
Bargain Daily Driver Classic
This was purchased to use as a car for my niece's end of year prom, and is now surplus to requirements.
In my opinion, one of the best colours for the XJ - Sherwood Green Metallic with Oatmeal Leather. The quintessential Jag colour combo.
Totally original example, not messed about or modofied in any way. It even has the correct size Jaguar fitment front and rear number plates.
Powered the 4.0 litre 'AJV8' lump, which is a gem of an engine. Just under 300bhp, means she lifts her skirt when she needs to. Surprises plenty of cars, who don't expect a big old Jag to leave them. Needless to say, doing so is rather satisfying, especially with Classic FM blaring out the windows!
Low mileage - only covered 103k miles, which is well below average for the year.
Starts first turn of the key. Idles in the correct manner. No overheating. Seemed to be dripping a bit of coolant on the driveway when first purchased, but we put some rad sealer in the system and has not done it since / coolant level is fine. Temperature gauge gets up to half way and sits there, never moves above that. Has done over 200 miles since, with no issues.
Gearbox is lovely and smooth, as it should be in an XJ.
Could do with a a couple of anti-roll bar links as it knocks over uneven surfaces (common XJ trait). Exhaust has a blow on the down pipe and what sounds like on the manifold as well. Sounds ok on full chat, a bit like an American muscle car, but not so much on idle and tick over (not very Jaaag-like!). Slight whine from NSF wheel bearing. Also, sounds like as exhaust mount is broken, as that can be heard clonking now and then. However, cruises fine and in comfort, at well above the national speed limit.
Has 4 matching tyres, all with good tread, fitted on the 16" alloys. These look just right on the car, and Jaguar really knew how to make a car ride properly, especially with higher profile tyres.
Brakes are ok, but shudder slightly under hard braking. No erratic pulling to one side.
Glides like an XJ should. Smooth ride that only one of these can muster.
New Wiper Blade fitted when we got the car. Windscreen washers all operating correctly.
It is actually in decent condition for the year, and not a rot box like most of these are at this money. Front wings have some rust bubbling, as do the rear arches, but this is surface rust, and has not gone though. The bodywork has a good shine to it, and not lost lacquer or cracking like some of my previous ones. Jaguar leaper on bonnet is a nice touch, and actually suits the car. In general, she polishes up well, as per the photos.
Interior is also in good order, with no rips or tears. A few cracks in the leather and some wear as to be expected on the driver's seat bolster. Seats are so comfortable and it's a pleasure to drive this old, big cat. Has Jaguar over-mats fitted.
The alloy wheels are in very good condition.
Everything works as it should. No warning lights on the dash. Air con would benefit from a re-gas, as it isn't too cold (but you can hear the condenser kicking in when switched on).
I keep saying it - the UK is currently the cheapest place to buy an old XJ. They won't be this cheap for much longer, and prices for X300 / X308 will increase, just like the old XJ40s have started to appreciate in value. You pull up anywhere in this Jag, and people will be shocked that you paid less than a bag of sand for it!
Comes with: 1 x Key / Remote Key Fob, Jaguar Leather Folder, Jaguar User Manuals, Jaguar Service Booklet, Current MOT Certificate, V5 Logbook (in my name and address)
Located in Shinfield, Berkshire, RG2 post code. Please call me on 07984 395400.
