1996-2006 Jaguar XK8
The XK8’s modernity is even more stark in the company of a pair of Seventies stalwarts like the MGB and Triumph Spitfire. But bear with us, because this V8 grand tourer is ideal for B-roads, and much else besides.
Don’t be put off by the five-speed automatic gearbox, because the 4.0-litre V8 pulls strongly and accelerates quickly even from low revs, the auto ‘box being more than happy to kick down when prompted. Characteristically light steering also takes some getting used to, but it is as precise as it is effortless.
The seriously good news, though, is that enough time has passed, not only for these Big Cats to hit the bottom of their depreciation curve, but to have begun to garner the attention of enthusiasts willing to spend money on improving and then looking after them. XJS prices are already on the same path now that have seen E-type values go stratospheric, so it makes sense to get in on the XK8 action now before they begin their inevitable ascent, too.
Buying a coupé, even in near timewarp condition, shouldn’t prove to be too much of a problem with a budget of £10,000. A convertible or a supercharged XKR can also be picked up for a fourfigure sum, but it certainly won’t be as perfect, and most likely (particularly in the case of the latter) will require you to invest further money if you’re seeking a show-winner.
Honestly, though, you’ll still have a riot in a standard XK8 on B-roads in particular – especially with 290bhp at your disposal – and best of all, it won’t be fazed by the long motorway drive home afterwards. EnginE 3998cc/V8/OHC per bank POWER 290bhp@6100rpm TORQUE 290lb ft@4250rpm MAXiMUM SPEED 155mph 0-60MPH 6.4sec FUEL COnSUMPTiOn 20-28mpg TRAnSMiSSiOn RWD, five-speed automatic EnginE OiL Castrol Magnatec 5w/30 A1 7 litres gEARBOX OiL Lifetime filled AXLE OiL Lifetime filled