Lot details Registration No: T.B.A. Chassis No: SAJJGAED3AH042019 Mot Expiry: March 2013
Living up to expectations can be a burden. Consider the handsome Geoff Lawson-penned XK8 that followed in the wheeltracks of such automotive icons as the XK120 and immortal E-type - currently hogging the limelight on its 50th anniversary. Like the E-Type before it, the XK8 made its debut at the Geneva Salon - that of 1996 - and, from launch, was available in either Coupe or Convertible guise. Like its immediate predecessor, the XJS, the original XK8 was more of a Grand Tourer than an outright sports car. It also had the distinction of being the first Jaguar to be powered by an eight-cylinder engine. This then, was a cat with strong DNA but also its own distinctive endearing personality. At the time of the newcomer's unveiling, Jaguar Cars was owned by Ford, as was Aston Martin, and it made sound economic sense for the XK8 and similarly targeted DB7 to share the same platform; which itself was derived from that of the outgoing XJS. The biggest of many differences between new and old, was the adoption of Jaguar's second generation independent rear suspension system, previously found on the XJ40 Saloon. Prior to 2003, power came from either a normally aspirated (XK8) or supercharged (XKR) 4.0-litre version of the company's DOHC V8 AJ26 engine. From 2003 to the end of production in 2006, the 4.2-litre AJ34 unit was employed. In each case, the engine was allied to either a five or six-speed (from 1997 onwards) automatic transmission.
Finished in Silver with Black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Noting there are "two small scratches to the lower front wings", he further informs us that the engine has been treated to "a stainless steel exhaust, new water pump and upper / lower timing chain tensioners" as part of being "upgraded to a later specification by marque specialist XJK Limited of Newcastle, Staffs". Reportedly fitted with 2-inch lowering springs and riding on 20-inch 'Detroit' spilt-rim alloy wheels, the Jaguar's cosmetics have been further enhanced via the addition of "a mesh grille, XKR vented bonnet and clear lens reflectors". Factory fitted with such niceties as a wood / leather steering wheel, Harmon Kardon sound system, cruise control, adaptive damping, memory / heated seats and walnut veneer dashboard, this stylish Big Cat is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until March 2013.
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