1998 Jaguar XK-Series Review
1998 Jaguar XK-Series Review
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Used XK-Series for sale
Appraise This CarJaguar XK-Series model years
Jaguar XK-Series types
- Convertible
- Coupe
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- One of the most beautiful cars on the road. Pretty fun to drive, too.
Cons
- High price. Not available with a manual transmission.
What’s new
The 1998 XK8 gets automatic on/off headlamps, an engine immobilizer feature as part of the security system and a cellular phone keypad integrated into the stereo controls. Other changes include the addition of two new exterior colors.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1998 Jaguar XK-Series XK8 2dr Coupe and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$219/mo for XK-Series XK8
XK-Series XK8
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Old enough to order a drink. The car that the XK8 is replacing had been in production for a full 21 years before finally being retired in 1996. That's an awfully long time for sheetmetal to grace the flanks of any automobile, but when the automobile is a mega-buck sports car it is even less acceptable. Fortunately, Jaguar set things right by introducing the completely new XK8 in 1997. The only thing it shares with its predecessor is the basic floor pan; everything else is fresh off the design table.
Like the engine for instance. This ultra high-tech aluminum block DOHC V8 engine is the first V8 engine ever to appear in a Jaguar. It makes an impressive 290 horsepower and 284 foot-pounds of torque, enabling the car to launch to 60 mph in less than seven seconds. Aiding the engine in this impressive task is an enhanced five-speed automatic transmission whose knob and lever rests in the familiar J-gate.
Also new, is Jaguar's approach to the interior. Gone are the hard-to-find auxiliary controls and poorly placed gauges; the new XK8 draws from Jaguars racing heritage to make sure that everything is in its proper place. Not that Jaguar threw the baby out with the bath water. The gents in Coventry know that their customers enjoy being coddled in soft hides; thus the standard Connolly leather remains. Also featured in the interior is the requisite walnut trim that makes a Jaguar a Jaguar.
According to one of our interns, who sampled the XK8 at a ride-and-drive event, the latest cat car is a hoot to drive. Effortless acceleration, precise steering, a supple suspension and fade-free brakes make the experience memorable. Available as a coupe or convertible, this luxury sports car is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone's face.
Perhaps the most important thing about the XK8 is its indication of Jaguar's new direction. With the addition of the XK8, Jaguar proves that they can look towards the future without forgetting the good things about their past. If this E-type-inspired XK8 is any indication, we will continue to see some wonderful things from them.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series.
5 star(73%)
4 star(22%)
3 star(5%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
45 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.13 out of 5 stars
Jaguar XK-8 Coupe Saphire Blue
Ben Leone, 03/31/2010
1997 Jaguar XK-Series XK8 2dr Coupe
When critiquing a vehicle like this you must look at the unique elements of the piece. This piece is nothing less than STUNNING. I bought my Jag used. I LOVE it! The original owner paid 80K for it. I paid 14K. I did the valve cover gaskets and the top tensioners and that cost me 900 bucks. So far knock on wood, the car has been great! I would recommend this car to anyone. I am tired of … looking at vettes and porsches, nothing personal of course. My car is one of 40 to come to the US in Sapphire Blue! Now that is rare, coupled with the fact that only 1129 coupes were made for America that year!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Love This Car!
Dennis L., 08/04/2008
1998 Jaguar XK-Series XK8 2dr Convertible
Even though my car is a 1998 it's a little embarrassing when people stare and point. The top is easy to operate and the car drives like a dream. I know the previous owner and aside from very minor issues the 54000 miles it has have been trouble free. It was intended to be a luxury car more than a sports car and it fills the bill perfectly. While not a "neck snapper" like my Corvettes … were, the power is delivered smoothly without reserve. This will probably be the most quiet convertible you ever ride in. At the used prices today, find a nice one and live it up!
5 out of 5 stars
Wonderful Brit Ride
Preston, 09/24/2007
1998 Jaguar XK-Series XK8 2dr Convertible
Purchased the XK8 used, after correcting a few neglected maintenance items the car drives, rides and runs excellent. I have taken several long trips of 8 hrs in a day and found comfort to exceed expectations. Fuel economy on the road exceeds 25 MPG. As a used car it is an excellent value! I've had 3 Jags in the past, this is the best including XKEs.
4.25 out of 5 stars
Stunning cat
Ben Leone, 10/08/2007
1997 Jaguar XK-Series XK8 2dr Coupe
This car is a sheer rush to drive. I have five other cars that all look great but this car is a stunner, stunner, stunner. The coupe is what makes it so different compared to today's vehicles that resemble soap bars. I have been taking care of some basic areas of maintenance, the tranny needed a fluid change. I put new platinum plugs in. Fixed the rear deck brake lamp. Now I am … contemplating the engine timing tensioners which are said to be a weak point in the 4.0 motor. Mine is not showing any indication of ticking or jumped timing on cold start-up. I will look into this further. I still love the car, even if someday I put a ford 351 motor in it.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Jaguar XK-Series, so we've included reviews for other years of the XK-Series since its last redesign.
1998 XK-Series Highlights
Convertible
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $231/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 9.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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