Plan on buying a used XK8

[DaveRice]

I joined the club specifically to assist me in getting a decent model.

I'm after an old model, probably a 2000 (which I presume don't have the nikasil problems) and preferably a convertible, for up to around £12K.

Any advice / comments would be welcomed:

david.rice@talktalk.net

Thanks.

[OK1904]

David,

I bought a 1999 XK8 convertible last December from a private seller but had it checked by a Jaguar main dealer before parting with my cash. I listed the things I specifically wanted checked (e.g. Nikasil blow-by test, tensioners/chains, possible accident damage, any rust under passenger footwell, all electrics etc) and paid £400 for the report. This was generally favourable but gave me peace of mind and a bargaining tool to negotiate with. It's risk money of course because you may have to walk away from the car.

As long as the seller is willing to participate in this process I think it's the safest way to go. If he isn't then it's probably not a reliable car.

I think (and there are many experts in the Club who will correct this if I'm wrong!) the first non-Nikasil engine number is 0008181043 which tells you it was manufactured in 2000 on August 18th at 10:43, so you could still buy a Nikasil-engined car in 2000. I also believe the last Nikasil car VIN no was A11139. Some say a Nikasil engine with a good blow-by result is better than a steel-lined engine. Incidentally the AJ26 engine in the XK8 was replaced with the AJ27 for the 99 model year, with improved VVT.

I'm john@cownley.net if you want further details of my inspection report etc.

[mike020150]

Hi David, If you're not in a hurry to buy, the club's XK8 seminar will cover the relevant issues for anyone looking for a good car. Alternatively, as John advises, paying for buying advice from someone who knows the model well is a good way to minimise the risks of buying any car, let alone an expensive model with matching servicing and repair costs. Good luck. Mike.

[OK1904]

I've just booked with Nigel Thorley for the 6th December seminar to learn more about my car and I'm looking forward to meeting more XK8/R folk too.

[mike020150]

See you there! Mike.

[mike020150]

Hi John, I spoke with Nigel a couple of weeks ago and he said bookings were coming in thick and fast. I recall being impressed by the number but with my memory, I can't recall exactly what it was! Sorry. Mike.

[mike020150]

I'm sure you'll look great modelling them! Mike.

[snowey]

Saw a brilliant 1996 XK8 Convertible with 55k miles for sale for 8750 pounds at a Hampshire Classic Car meeting in August. It was part of the JEC Hampshire (or possibly Dorset?) contingent (there were two regions exhibiting). It was a lovely car at an absurd price. I would have bought it (subject to a mechanics inspection) except I just bought a 2001 Convertible.

[mike020150]

Never mind John; perhaps it was £5500 for the car and £10k for the number plate! Mike.

[mike020150]

Hi John, See you on Saturday at the seminar. I'm looking forward to hearing the different exhausts performing to compare with your car's. Let's pray for a dry day so we can line them all up outside for the comparison. Mike.