XK8 4.2 Option pack

[DavidA]

After owning earlier XK's from 1950 onwards, I am about to join the 21st Century by buying a late 2002 delivered XK8 4.2 coupe with a relatively low 50K mileage. It appears to have the factory options of 20" Detroit alloys, rear arch extension and the green XKR Brembo brakes, I believe there was an earlier option pack for the 4.0 which provided the wheels, uprated brakes and handling pack with the CATS steering system at a cost of £6900 in 1999.

I have the VIN number, I can visually see the wheels and brakes, but how can I check on the CATS option, I am used to other manufacturers, Porsche, Mercedes and BMW having an online resource for spec and options fitted by VIN number, does such an resource exist on line for UK delivered Jaguars ? if so that would be very useful if someone could let me know or unless there is another way of confirming the options fitted to the car when new.

VIN SAJAC41P232A33142

Paint LHK Quartz Trim LHJ Dove grey KT

The car was first registered on 1.11.2002 sold by Jacksons Garages Jersey.

One other question, and I believe that this is not uncommon, the trim over the door shuts have 'blown' it appears that they are alloy under a coating, the top ones are badly blown, and the trim on the top of the door panels should be really be done at the same time. Is this a straight forward parts replacement or a body shop job? or can they be effectively repaired ?

Many thanks in advance.

David

[RichardSEL]

After owning earlier XK's from 1950 onwards, I am about to join the 21st Century by buying a late 2002 delivered XK8 4.2 coupe with a relatively low 50K mileage.
<snip>
another way of confirming the options fitted to the car when new.
The car was first registered on 1.11.2002 sold by Jacksons Garages Jersey.

David

If Jacksons are still in business they should be able to look up the DDW (Direct Dealer Warranty) for you. That'll list what options were originally ordered. AFAIK that's on a national main dealer database. But if you tell them that as the original dealer the JEC suggested that as a member you ask, they'll probably then be pleased to help. For the three XJ8s I've had the original dealer was helpful for each one -- no charge

[DavidA]

Richard, Thank you, I have tried Jacksons but they do not have the full specifications on their system which post dates the take over from St Helier Garages who were bought out by them. I am still awaiting a call from service to see if they have a record of the options the car was supplied with.
Many thanks
David

[Andy P]

Hi DavidA,
I think the easiest way to check if you have CATS fitted is if you look in the engine bay there should be a cable coming from the top of the shock absorbers.

XK8 With CATS

XK8 Without CATS

Hope that helps and all goes well with acquiring the XK8.
Take Care.
Andy

[mike020150]

Unfortunately, Jaguar has had a habit of reducing the spec information available online as numbers of a model visiting main dealerships drop off over time. This holds true for the XK8 and I have a suspicion that, guilty or not, GPDR will be blamed for much more of this approach in the future! Mike.

[DavidA]

Thank you for your advice, it looks like I am heading the general direction of an XK60 coupe, it appears that there are factory built special order cars prior to the launch of the XK60, is this fact or wishful thinking on behalf of some sellers with upgrade kits fitted ?

Where the XK60 options available in kit form from Jaguar following the launch of the XK60 , before it or not at all.

Many thanks

David

[mike020150]

XK60 cars enjoyed some extras as a better value package compared with previous models. Fundamentally, the extras included on these cars were available separately previously so there will be cars around with them fitted prior to the XK60 model launch which was aimed at keeping up interest in the 4.2 litre models until the 5 litre cars were ready. Mike.

[DavidA]

Mike, thank you, you confirmed my thoughts having seen similar 'limited edition' models launched by other manufacturers such as Porsche and Mercedes prior to the planned launch of the next model in line.

Looking for an XK60, I have seen what appear to be factory fitted options found in the XK60 but factory built prior to the 2008 launch date, your answer puts it all into perspective and confirms the fact that Jaguar consolidated the options into one model as a no cost option. (I think)

Would you be able to point me in the direction of a 2007 / 2008 pre XK60 UK options list.

Many thanks

David

[mike020150]

Hi David,
For a detailed list of spec changes, it's not a bad idea to pick up a copy of Jaguar XK/XKR by our own Nigel Thorley. It's available from the Club shop and elsewhere. Alternatively, it's a question of building a collection of brochures via sellers like Andrew Swift (listed in the JE magazine) or eBay. Like all manufacturers, Jaguar rang the option changes steadily throughout the model's life. Mike.