Used 1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1999 XJ-Series, so we've included reviews for other years of the XJ-Series since its last redesign.
A Good Car for the Money
Brett , 08/08/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
For years, Jaguar has had a poor reputation for mechanical quality. However, in my experience, that has not been the case. I bought my 1998 Jaguar XJ8 as-is for about $11,000 with 72K miles. So far I have not had unexpected mechanichal problems, just routine work. I really enjoy the vehicle. The rapid depreciation of these vehicles, in large part due to Jaguars mechanical problems of the past, makes them very affordable for your average person. Just a couple of suggestions: 1) Buy 1998 or after- thats when electrical system was replaced by Ford, 2) Make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection, and 3) if you need to buy parts, go on ebay, since the Jaguar dealer markup is huge.
Stand out in the Crowd but get credit card ready!
Mike Marshall, 02/21/2016
updated 08/23/2018
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
50 of 53 people found this review helpful
If you can't afford to drive a $70K car then don't and this applies to used/older ones. I'm 55, a car nut since a kid and buy cars based on looks but that can be expensive. If you want reliability you'll have to buy an ugly Japanese car but if you want something "cool" well this Red 1999 Jaguar XJ8 with chrome wheels is gorgeous BUT buy one from someone else who has already spent thousands of dollars on the many repairs that come with "being cool". I bought this car around 2012 from Orig owner with 61K miles in San Diego in show room condition but was APPALLED to see all of the repair receipts from the original owner on a car with only 61K miles. The receipts totaled well over $12,000 and YES you will replace those plastic timing belt tensioners (orig. owner paid for that thankfully!) The only reason I bought this is because I'm retired so don't drive much and have only put 5,000 miles on it and hoping for now more expensive repairs but have had one of the 8 expensive coils replaced, windshield wiper reservoir leaks, oil pan gasket just replaced, smog issue fixed. Potential head gasket leak as of now. Front shock blown. All that in Just the 5000 miles that I've driven it. SO on the positive side, it is a classic beautiful car, drives and handles like a Corvette, great power esp. when sport mode is set. Quiet and nice to drive, took it up to 110 mph thru Camp Pendleton one night late with no traffic around and was quiet, felt safe, stable, solid and was very impressed. Interior is nice quality except cheap cup holders and no storage space. Tight back seat on this short wheel base model. If I bought one again I'd def. have gotten the XJR after seeing the almost 400Hp and foot lbs of torque and 0-60 in 5.2 seconds (better than my former 1999 Mercedes S600 V-12 by a full second!) Those are even worse in reliability/repairs (NEVER touch a Mercedes built after 1991!) So, like anything in life, "you get what you paid for" and got a great buy at only $5000 BUT can see why these cars are so cheap because of terrible reliability but will enjoy occasionally driving it and it gets TONS of compliments from both old and young people as it really stands out on the road. Ford improved it in 1997 but would not recommend this car to anyone on a "budget" as "it pay$ to be cool" but for $5K in this mint condition I do love the car and I've owned 60+cars. Remember, if you buy...........look for orig owner WITH ALL REPAIR RECEIPTS AND MAKE SURE TENSIONERS HAVE BEEN REPLACED AS IT IS "DNA" DEFECT AND WILL COST YOU SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS TO REPAIR. The last receipt I got from the old guy/orig owner was for $4900 for misc stuff that should NOT break! **My mechanic says best to get a 2000+model as it works better with the newer computer analytic repair tools that mechanics use. Also, helpful hint, if your message center comes up with "Stability control/ABS" not working, don't automatically assume you need the expensive main computer module, mechanic says each 4 wheels has a single monitor and even just one going out will give out this message BUT way cheaper to replace just the 1 or 2 individual wheel sensors VS main computer module which may NOT be the problem. Also just disconnecting the battery to "reset" it works often. As mentioned, electronic issues are one of the main problems on these cars. ON the good side, car saved my life when I swerved harder than I ever have to avoid a car of the freeway that cut out of bumper to bumper traffic right in front of me as I was going by at approx 50mph, this Jag handled like a "go cart" and handled beautifully and went right around that car with no squeeling, leaning, rolling over. IT DID EXACTLY WHAT MY EMERGENCY REFLECTS TOLD IT TO DO AND AVOIDED A HEAD ON COLLISION!! THANK YOU JAGUAR!! (and I still look cool in it!!!) I get offers to buy this car often!
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Super Vehicle
cwiningar, 03/12/2012
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
25 of 26 people found this review helpful
This was my first Jaguar and has always been my dream car. I always joked that when I retired I would get a jaguar and guess what, I got one!! It has met every expectation I could of had. I have never driven a car so smooth and beautiful. I sure do get the looks and love every minute of it. I am averaging 26-28 MPG on the highway. I could not ask for a better car and I love love this one.
Always wanted a '98 Jaguar Vanden Plas
HOF III, 12/01/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
22 of 23 people found this review helpful
When Ford bought Jag in the mid 90s and made the improvements that had been a concern for previous Jag owners, I really got excited! I remember going to the dealership and seeing the '98 Vanden Plas in Pewter with oyster interior and thought it was the most beautiful car available at the time. I was fortunate to have some friends in the auto industry that go to auctions regularly and they came across a beauty in the Cabernet color with the oyster interior with all the options that had been immaculately cared for. I bought it from them and have had nothing but PURE enjoyment since. Rolls Royce is the only car that compares to the ride and comfort experience in my mind!
Superb British Luxury Automibile!
1999 Jaguar VDP, 12/15/2008
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Very awesome car - exceeded my expectations! The best luxury vehicle I have driven - quiet, smooth & comfortable! I have owned few Cadillac & BMW cars in the past, this Jag is more reliable than either one. Not as fun to drive as BMW, but this VDP gives you a feeling of driving Rolls Royce with its elegance, comfort & smooth ride. 1998-2003 VDP models are the best, when Ford bought them - quality & reliability got worse! I personally would not buy any car new - but even 10 year old, with low miles & well taken care of - Vanden Plas is an awesome car! It matters a lot who owns this car - if you take care of it (drive it normally & maintain regularly) - it will drive well for a long time!
A perfect beast
phil, 06/12/2009
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
After a little over 5 months with this car I can say that my 1999 Jaguar XJ8 is the best car I've ever owned. I was lucky enough to get a one owner, dealer serviced car that was owned by a single male. The back seat was never even sat in. The power is impressive for a 4,100 pound car, but the biggest surprise was the cornering ability and overall road feel of the car. This is not like my Cadillac of old which was a living room on wheels. This car lets you "feel" the driving experience. My friends always want to take my car, despite one owning a 5 series BMW and the other driving a convertible Mustang GT. Who wants to drive a car you see every day...this car is full of character.
My 99 VDP... AWESOME
Jim Spin, 11/19/2008
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I purchased my first jag, a 99 VDP about a month ago. It was a high mileage car, 124000. Had my mechanic check it out. Absolutely perfect. I've driven it about 3000 miles so far. I absolutely love EVERYTHING about this car. I don't think I'll ever buy anything but a Jag from now on. I've owned MB and BMW and about 25 other cars. This one is the best overall.
A lot of car for the money.
Jeff Webster, 04/23/2004
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I like this car very much. It's smooth, comfortable and reliable (unlike previous Jags I've owned). It's very thirsty returning only about 15mpg around town but somewhat better, maybe 22mpg on a run. Trunk space is limited for such a large car. Should have a 'pass- through' where the back seat, or rear center center armrest folds down to allow long items like golf clubs and skis etc. to be carried in the trunk.
I will never buy another type of car
Iostream, 03/06/2002
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
14 of 16 people found this review helpful
I have wanted a Jaguar for quite some time, and finally broke down and bought one. There is really nothing to dislike about the Vanden Plas. I am sold, I will never own another brand of car again.
Don't even think about it!!
Don't even go there!, 04/30/2004
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Bought 'certified Jag' hoping to get a good reliable car, no such luck. The car has a tendancy to loose all power, I mean ALL POWER while traveling down the freeway at 70mph. Not a good thing. Has been in the shop 9 times for problems ranging from the rear view mirror dripping chemicals, to replacing the front ball joints (3 times) and rod ends, to replacing the throttle assembly (twice - the cause of the freeway melt down). Fun to drive when it is up and running. Havn't had a problem in 7 months. Fingers crossed!
Least reliable car I ever owned
worst car ever, 08/04/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
12 of 14 people found this review helpful
At 53,000 miles my engine failed $12,000 replacement. Jaguar offered no help, said my case was rare, but 6 mechanics said engine failures were common because of timing chain failures in engines from 1998-2002. 3 water pump failures (plastic parts). Transmission failed at 98,000. This car had 8 mechanical break downs. Maintence was $27,000. Plastic used where metal was needed.
Not very reliable
Jimmy, 09/16/2009
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
18 of 22 people found this review helpful
I have had this car almost 2 years now without much luck. Unless you have plenty of money to put into it look elsewhere. You can bet you will need a new timing chain kit somewhere starting at 60,000. Poor, poor design on the chain and guides. This is an expensive fix!! Very!! Fixes...Power antenna (of course), driver seat power switch, rear view mirror, vacuum lines, brakes (warped rotors). The check engine light is always coming on, different problem each time. Transmission fluid is $65.00 a quart. No owner service. The car is good looking and very nice to drive, but the problems with it are horrible. There are a lot of nice looking cars out there...I would choose one of them!!
As good as you can get
Classic Jag-saloon guy, 10/22/2019
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought a 99 XJ8 that was 3 years old at the time and am still driving it everyday, 17 years later. I went to 85K before the valve cover gasket and sparkplug rings needed replacement due to oil seepage misfiring one of the coils. I took the opportunity to replace the tensioners and water pump proactively at the same time, but my cheap plastic tensioners never failed up to the 20th birthday. I also replaced the front main/crankcase gasket. Aside from that, I have replaced the thermostat and one of the ABS wheel sensors. ZF transmission has been untouched for 85K miles. So, yes, I have finally dealt all the typically discussed XJ8 components issues. Now that I have next generation replacements, I am hoping I get another 10 years and really take this automobile into true classic status.
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Always Loved the Vanden Plas
HOFIII, 06/12/2007
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Always wanted a Vanden Plas and was finally able to purchase one and have throughly enjoyed it. No other car drives like it. The quiet smoothness and overall feel of luxury surrounds you. The Harman Kardon audio is suberb. I haven't experienced another car like this big Jag. The car has 89,500 miles and drives like new. With proper maintenance in regular intervals, I expect it to perform for years. When driving the Jag, you really feel heads above the rest and receive compliments on its appearrance on a regular basis. I just love it!
Wow
rainere, 04/15/2013
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I've had my xj8 for about 6 months now and it just got past 1000 miles that I put on since I bought it. What can I say? It's an absolute amazing car, just got in a wreck with a Jeep and held up like a champ, I felt completely safe and secure in that car and believe me the same can't be said for the Jeep. The car is a tank, I love it, it's peppy and fast and sexy on the inside. So happy with the results of my purchase. I'm sad that the car was hit, but she is being repaired by the best shop I know specializing in British imports. Love my car, she's the best. Never getting rid of her.
A lot of car for a little cash.
sleep2much, 01/28/2008
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
So many people like to put down Jaguars, the car not the cat, I would bet good money few of them have owned one or even sat in one, I know my car is knocking on the door of it's 10th year, but you couldn't tell by driving it, the interior is still pretty fresh and I like to look at the car too. I feel like I'm driving an $80,000 car, I know it's only $6000 now, but the luxury feel does not fly away as quick as the forecourt price.
One Killer Kat
shakur10011, 02/23/2010
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 1998 xj8vdp 500 miles away from my home. it was a one owner car and she kept the car very well maintained. all manufacturer suggested maintenance have been performed and documented and every other little thing she had done as well. needless to say, my 5oo mile trip went by too fast and left me wanting to bypass my home to enjoy the ride even more. I had an oil service done the next day and with only 71,000 miles on this "Killer Kat" i know i will be leaping onto the highway soon. so if you live on the east coast you are sure to catch me prowling and growling pass all the other so called luxury sport sedans (bmw, lexus, mercedes), they don't compare.
My Priceless Vanden Plas
Dodson's, 01/20/2006
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
We absolutely love this car. We have had it for over 6 years now, and besides for a leaking water pump that was replaced under warranty, it has been an excellent car. The ride is second to none, and what more can someone say about the Rolls Royce interior... doesn't get much better. We have since purchase a BMW 7 series, and although this is a nice car, it is no where near as reliable as her Kitty, and both my wife and I still prefer the Vanden Plas ride. It's amazing after 6 years, and 85,000 miles this car still grabs attention everywhere we go... and that the car with just regular maintenance and detailing still looks and drives like the day we drove it off the lot!
Overheating Issue, but still Bulletproof
Mikefrom Orlando, 12/12/2002
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My 99 XJ8 at 51000 just had its first issue, which is the only know problem for this vehicle to occur..Overheating...My XJ8 at 51000 had a defective themostat which my extended warranty paid full for. The water pump was recommended to be replaced as well, as Jaguar did redesign both parts. I recommend you get both changed to the new design, just in case....Other than that, its a Bulletproof engine and I'm very pleased....still get head turns like just a few vehicles can do:)
Not too bad
Dirk5, 07/31/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my XJ8 in May of 2002 (44,000 miles) for $25,000 ($34,000 was average resale at that time) delivered to me from Houston wholesaler. Really no trouble at all until 110,000 miles. Brake calipers rebuilt, front end balljoints replaced, new belts and hoses (normal after 100,000 miles), new water pump, thermostat replaced. About $4,000 in repairs, however some of this is expected after 100,000 miles. The fit, finish, exterior and interior, electronics, handling, and overall reliability has been good. Super classy car that I will keep for very long time. Will put another 40,000 miles on this car and then put into the garage and buy another everyday car. This car is 8 years old and still runs and looks great.
Best Jag Yet
Howells, 04/07/2003
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is the second Jag we have owned and can honestly say the best. In fact we still own the first, 1989 XJ6, though they are reported to have a few problems, we have been spared. Another nice thing about the Jag is that it is distinctive in appearance. If you want to reward your hard efforts of life and not be a "me too-er", the Jag is the way to go.
great but know the faults
Joseph Obuchowski, 02/26/2009
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
21 of 31 people found this review helpful
This is one of the sexiest cars on the road. I have seen other cars trying to race me, and I do not want to race , I just want to cruise and enjoy the ride. Beware when you drive this model, it is a head turner and some people get angry. At the same time some people approach me and say, wow that is a great auto, it happens. I have two 1998 Jags one black and one white, the white one is the "L" version. Do not ask me why but the stereo sound is better in the "L" version, most likely due to the added interior.
Beware
courageous, 05/09/2002
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased a "select edition" 1998 XJ8, which means that the car was thoroughly inspected and certified. I don't think so. In less than a year's time I have had the car in the dealership 10 times! After tiring of driving a loaner almost as often and the Jag, I was informed by the dealer that my car had lost more than $10,000 of its value in just eight months. "You can buy them at auction for $22,000." So, even though these cars are supposedly select models, you can still wind up with a cat that's a real dog - and don't expect the dealer to do anything for you.
XJ8: Premier Flagship Luxury Sedan
W.L. 1, 04/13/2007
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wow!! I love my XJ8. Good mileage. Great performance. This is true one of the best luxury sedans from europe. I also love the S-class. The XJ-Series has better styling, performance, & reliability. The S-class W121 is a competitor. The 7-series however is not as luxurious as these two.
Wonder car
Thom, 05/05/2008
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Lucky to find a car of this quality with such low mileage. A dream to drive and gets many looks by other drivers. While the off the line performance is less dramatic than expected it accelerates quickly once in second. Road noise is fantastically quiet. Comfort is luxurious and pleasing.
Still Loving It
Sue Ray, 09/07/2008
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I am still loving my Jaguar XJ8L. I purchased it after 12 years of "mom- mobiles" ... Taurus station wagons. I had always dreamed of owning a Jag but never thought it would be possible. It has given me no trouble over the years and is completely cool to drive :) One year remained on the original warranty when purchased at 22,000 miles and there were a few issues, mostly cosmetic and the radio was replaced twice, that Jaguar gladly repaired under warranty. The Jaguar dealership in Greenville, SC was a delight to deal with. I now have 122,000 miles on it and am looking forward to more. It gets better than 25 miles to the gallon (premium) on the highway always and about 18.5 around town.
1998 Jag XJL
JB Leport, 12/29/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is the 3rd Jag I have owned and it is the best so far. The V8 engine is actually no better than the 4 liter 6 cyl eng, but it has a better reliability factor. Change oil at 4-5000 miles, rotate tires every 5000, wash and wax regularly. Wonderful family car with LOTS of room.
Wonderful to drive, when it works :(
andy, 06/26/2008
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
I cannot believe how many 10s I see for reliability. After 2.5 yrs and 40k mileage, I replaced several motor mounts, an entire motor, a transmission rebuild, throttle body, window/skylight, buggy gas gauge, engine coolant leak, cup holders, paint is going despite regular waxing (monthly), SOO MANY MOTOR MOUNTS, brakes, I spend minimum $10,000/year in maintenance. Bad choice for a college student other than I can bounce from San Diego to Sac easily, comfortably, and super fast! Super smooth, powerful, elegant, get lots of looks and girls FIEND for it. You will spend more in maintenance than gas tho, and it costs me about 850/month in gas. Don't buy it unless your rich!
Good looking and well made vehicle
Larry Massey, 09/22/2016
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Costly to maintain and not real comfortable on longer trips for tall people( I'm 6'5"). More of a sports car drive and feel with 4 doors.
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1998 vanden plas
steve, 06/02/2006
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My second Jaguar, and I love it even more than my first (a 1988 XJ6). The classiest, most beautiful car on the road, it handles perfectly (with the right brand of tires--Goodrich; Perelli and Michelein don't work well in wet or snow conditions) and has instant power. Extremely comfortable and fun to drive. Very comfortable for passengers front and back. Up-keep is expensive unless there is an extended warantee.
great used car for comfort
Jules, 02/16/2017
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Excellent car for everyday driving. Safe, large and extremely comfortable. Very low to the ground, so not for the elders or disabled. Beautiful classic design in so many ways. Safe - Safe - Safe!
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Most Handsome Car - Beware of Gremlins
Hardware Mike, 06/02/2019
updated 12/30/2020
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought a mint condition 1998 Vanden Plas in Mederia Red - beautiful vehicle - with 48,000 miles on it. Fast, stuck like glue and gorgeous inside and out. Issues - the HK stereo was horrible (big surprise on Vanden Plas) - plastic cam chain tensioners (design flaw corrected with metal ones a few years later) cost me $3,800 to replace - recurring electrical gremlins that sometimes shut the car off with no warning just driving down the road. I owned it for 10 years and only put about 15,000 miles on it but sold it as I got tired of the random issues. Very poor resale value. If you're mechanically inclined buy one - my own opinion is that these 1998 Jags and the 1973 Triumph TR6's are the most handsome cars ever made.
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MY 1999 JAGUAR VANDEN PLAS
J Clark, 05/29/2003
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My experience with the 99 Jag has been excellent. No major problems, few minor ones. Service always good. It has been what I think a classic auto should be in all respects.
!998 Jaguar XJ8L, best car I've owned.
TJM, 04/07/2022
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car rode smoothly at every speed. It was classy and well appointed. It was a true luxury car. The only issue I had with it was my overweight friends, all of whom are about my age: 70's-80's, had trouble getting in because it was so low to the ground and the front seats were more than comfortable for me but my 250lb+ friends felt confined. It carried 2 sets of clubs to the golf course easily and I drove it twice to and from NV to NC and about 4 times a year to and from NC to GA. It was a delight. I bought it new in Dec 1997 and drove it till the present. I am selling it because I purchased a bigger (not better) Mercedes.
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What a bargain.
Ethree, 06/14/2004
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Let's not forget the original asking price of this piece of art....and now let's be quite happy that a very nice '98 VDP (with less than 40k miles on the ticker) can be had for about 20k. Absolutely stunning. Smooth running. Took it on a 650 mile trip-- unbelievable ride. Driven Mercedes (E series) and they are not even in the same ball park as far as comfort level. Enough power to get you in trouble.
1999 Jaguar
geco38, 05/01/2004
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have in the past 20 years owned 14 vehicles mostly cars,and a few suv's and pickup trucks. I have owned a few American cars,and the others, imports from either Japan, Germany, and now England(UK). The Jaguar is by far the finest,in it's boldly elequent body design, and equally handsome leather interior.The performance is second to none with power in reserve at all ranges,and the ride and cornering are perfectly suited for a premium sedan. Surely the Very Best of the best.
$12K In Repairs and Still Counting
Lee, 03/25/2005
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Beautiful car, great ride, wonderful handling, expensive to maintain. Between 55K and 75K miles - fuel pump, transmission, brakes, shocks, timing chain, water pump. Replaced all the plastic timing chain tension parts with new metal parts. A simple seal is $80. Same seal with my Infiniti is $15. Jag must figure if you can afford the car, then you will be willing to pay through the nose for their parts. I keep saying what else can go wrong with this car? And, something expensive always does.
Buying an old XJ8L
Gerry Acquilano, 07/01/2007
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Buying an old 1999 Jaguar XJ8L can be very dangerous, however this one is superb. The leather on the driver's seat edge is a bit worn, needs re-dyeing, but that said, the car is gorgeous both outside and inside for such an older one. It drives dead silent at any speed like a Jaguar should. I was impressed by the great gas mileage for a car this large, 24 mpg. Lots of room in the rear as it is a long wheelbase "L" version, and I highly recommend buying this model over the standard sedan. It is fun to drive, very comfortable, and has that timeless Jaguar styling. Highly recommended for the money, you simply can't beat it. Buy one for around $11,500 in great condition, you'll love it.
1999 XJ8L Solid Car
George, 03/27/2009
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car was purchased in 2003 just turned four years old with 28,000 miles, interior and exterior were in perfect shape and remain so today even after being driven all through the winters in Buffalo NY, the last six years. Only problem with the car in all that time was a timing chain tensioner went bad and was expensive to repair. All told it has been the best car I have ever owned and with only 81,000 miles it still has a long way to go.
Great Jag
Ralph, 11/19/2007
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is a great and very classy car. Silky smooth as advertised. This is the first Jaguar I have owned and am open to a second Jag, a drop-top XK. The only precaution for shoppers of 1997-2003 XJ8 models is the requirement for timing chain tensioners at about 75000 miles. This is a spendy repair that is a must. There are update kits available. My car is drop dead gorgeous and a thrill to drive. You turn it on... it turns you on!!!
Love to drive it
sansui, 02/21/2015
updated 02/26/2018
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Jag in Sept and knew it had problems, but was going to take that in stride. It had a bad ignition coil and when I got that fixed it purred like a kitten with a power meal. I still have a couple of problems to take care of then it's off for some long drives. It drives like a luxury vehicle it is, and at 75 it just barely hums along the interstate. It averaged 23 mph, which I thought was a little poor until I l read the specs. I don't like the way the brake and gas pedal are so close to each other in that I can't get my right foot in between them while on cruise. The seat sets a little bit low for me, in that I have to almost pull myself into the seat. All said, I love it. Now, after more than three years, it is starting to show lots of stuff that are needing repaired. I am thinking the previous owner(s) only had one thing in mind when they purchased it. To drive and have fun. I drove it to British Columbia, 3000 miles plus, having faith it would take me and bring me back. One small problem came up, but with the help of a repair shop along the way, I made it. It averaged 24 at interstate speed, and a little better on the highways. I have replaced the seats, front and back, installed new speakers in the doors, put on Pirelli's, of which I love, and have bought some small items of which I think I can replace. Right now the sunroof went out on me, and along with that, the felt liner has become loose. Also, upon furhter inspection, I was told that the valve cover gasket's are leaking. So, I have yet another problem. Or two. I can't seem to find anyone that can tell me if the accessory lights in the luggage compartment are supposed to be there or if someone added them on later. The lights are just dangling there, and they don't work. So, as you can read, it's been a very frustrating time for me. If I had known back then, what I know now, I would have spent that money into a sport, like an XKE. Well, wish me luck in getting it back on the road...
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
DO NOT BUY A JAGUAR
bones, 12/12/2002
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
THE WATER PUMP IS PLASTIC AND COST ABOUT $500 DOLLARS AND LABOR TO INSTALL IS ABOUT $200. THIS IS A RIP OFF. JAGUAR IS A PART OF FORD. SO I SAY DO NOT BUY A JAGUAR.
Never thought I'd own a Jaguar
Francois, 12/19/2005
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wife has always wanted a Jaguar. So, for her birthday we found a single owner Jaguar of sale. He had all of the service records from day one. Fun to drive and handles great. Mileage is OK, around 23 on the hwy and 19 around town. Price? Less then $16k, for a car that cost $61000.00. It doesn't look like every other car on the road. Body styling is what makes this car turn heads.
1998 xj8L
gdb, 12/28/2004
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Excellent car. Bought used the week of 9/11/01 and had to drive daughter 16 hours to school (no planes flying) and turn around and drive back 16 hours next day. Couldn't have survived that trip with anything less than this car. Smooth, quiet, better gas mileage than my 94 XJ6, with loads more power. Heated seats and traction control very nice on cold and/or slippery mornings. No major mechanical issues. Trunk is limited - hard to do golf bag and suitcases ...
A Classic Automobile
Robert Williams, 04/11/2004
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased used with low mileage, my Vanden Plas has been a superb experience. Excellent in every category, classic styling and none of the mechanical drawbacks frequently (and unfairly) mentioned by Jag detractors. A wonderful experience and certainly a worthwhile investment.
My Jag
shadow, 05/13/2003
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had a few fit and finish problems early on ,but that was about it. The dealer fixed ever problem that I brought up and some that they found. This is my first Jaguar and my experience has been better than when I owned a lexus and Acura. I love my car for its power and style. Nothing says beauty like the Jaguar xj8
26 Days of pure enjoyment
bconno2003, 02/08/2013
1999 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My First Jag I had gotten the '99 XJ8 late Sept. 2012 with 109,000 miles on it and absolutely loved it. Unfortunately financed it (separate issue altogether) and got plates about a week before the temps expired. 26 days later exactly on my Cousins wedding on my way to there a deer was hunting me and ran out in front and messed up the driver side fender and totaling it out. pretty much had a 26 day test drive on the vehicle since I got a check after the deductible and loan paid off lol. Gave me a taste of the big cats and my replacement is going to be another Jag this time paid for with CASH! Whoo Hoo! Here Kitty Kitty! PS I'm in my mid to late 20s
Classic looks and performance
dnwdfw, 06/08/2003
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Picked up a 98 XJ8 with less than 35k miles thinking it would be a fun car for a few years. Honestly, I got much more car than I thought at first. I hope to keep it alive for many years to come as it's an incredible piece of workmanship. The 4.0L V8 is as strong as most could handle and the ride is way beyond the Lexus/Infiniti/Cadillac breeds. I'm hooked for life. One additional benefit to buying an old Jag - the styles change so slowly that only a dealer can tell what year your car is.
10/10/02
PDT1468, 10/10/2002
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent car. The fit and finish on the interior and exterior are superb. The 8 cyl. engine is a vast improvement over the 6 cyl
What a great car
shs, 12/03/2002
1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I'd admired the Jaguar for years, but was always hesitant because of the mechanical/electrical reputation. Bought one used, with the extended warranty and at a great price. Have been driving it for two years, what a great pleasure. I find myself driving it a lot more than any other car I've owned, and will find any excuse to do so.