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1998 Jaguar XK-Series Review

4.8 out of 5 stars(15)
1999 Jaguar XK-Series 2 Dr XK8 Coupe
Used XK-Series for sale
List Price Estimate:$1,752 - $3,870
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Jaguar XK-Series model years
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1998 Jaguar XK-Series appraisal values can range from $755 - $2,909.
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Edmunds' Expert Review

  • One of the most beautiful cars on the road. Pretty fun to drive, too.
  • High price. Not available with a manual transmission.

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.

1998 Highlights

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.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series.

5(87%)
4(6%)
3(7%)
2(0%)
1(0%)
4.8 out of 5 stars
15 reviews
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Most helpful consumer reviews

4.75 out of 5 stars
Love This Car!
Dennis L.,08/04/2008
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
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.
4.63 out of 5 stars
A proven winner
Reglio,09/08/2003
XK8 2dr Coupe
This car has been extremely reliable for me over the years. Gas mileage runs just under 20mpg for me, and it constantly turns heads, even today. A real winner. The coupe is extremely rare and provides a better overall styling exercise, structual integrity, heat and cool abilitiy.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Beautiful car
sammy500c,04/11/2010
XK8 2dr Convertible
I purchased as a second owner... Love the car, it's pure white with tan interior. I have to say that this car gives you a different feeling than any other. I have had many convertibles but none compare to the XK8 and performance.
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Features & Specs

See all Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series specs & features 

Safety

IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Not Tested
  • Roof Strength Test
    Not Tested
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Not Tested
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Not Tested
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    0
More about the 1998 Jaguar XK-Series

Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series Overview

The Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series is offered in the following submodels: XK-Series Coupe, XK-Series Convertible. Available styles include XK8 2dr Coupe, and XK8 2dr Convertible. The Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 5-speed automatic.

What's a good price on a Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series?

Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.

Which used 1998 Jaguar XK-Serieses are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 1998 Jaguar XK-Series for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 1998 Jaguar XK-Series.

Can't find a used 1998 Jaguar XK-Seriess you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a used Jaguar XK-Series for sale - 10 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $12,807.

Find a used Jaguar for sale - 8 great deals out of 11 listings starting at $24,259.

Find a used certified pre-owned Jaguar XK-Series for sale - 2 great deals out of 15 listings starting at $22,003.

Find a used certified pre-owned Jaguar for sale - 1 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $25,354.

Should I lease or buy a 1998 Jaguar XK-Series?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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