Overview & Reviews
Jaguar coupes and convertibles have a long history, starting with the iconic E-Type or XKE. It has been lusted after since its introduction in 1961, appearing on teenage boys' bedroom walls, grown men's garages and in movies like the Austin Powers series, where it served as the international man of mystery's Shaguar.
After 22 years of the unloved XJS coupe, Jaguar revived the XK name and spirit in the late 1990s with the stunning XK8 coupe and convertible. Powered by an all-new 290-horsepower V8, it was quick and capable of keeping up with the best of the sub-$100,000 luxury coupe rivals of the time.
Note that this review only covers the period of time (1997-2006) when Jaguar officially referred to its first-generation XK as the "XK-Series." For full coverage of its successor, please see our Jaguar XK review..
Used Jaguar XK-Series Models
They say cats have nine lives and quite appropriately, it takes a long time for Jaguar coupes and convertibles to die. The XKE survived from 1961-'74 before being replaced by the very different XJS, which languished in mediocrity for 22 years before being mercifully put out of its misery.
The Jaguar XK-Series didn't live quite as long, but 10 years is still a long time for an automobile. The 1997 Jaguar XK8 debuted in coupe and convertible body styles, with the XKR arriving in 2000. The standard 290-hp 4.0-liter engine was Jaguar's first-ever V8 and only the fourth all-new engine in its history. We were impressed with its low-end torque and found that it accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. We also thought it was "a hoot to drive" with effortless acceleration, precise steering and a supple suspension.
Inside, the XK8 featured a classic Jaguar look with lots of Connolly leather and walnut trim. Although it began to look antiquated later in life with unintuitive controls and subpar materials, in the retro-crazed late '90s, it was certifiably chic. The car's cramped interior dimensions and small trunk were never in style, however.
In 2003, the Jaguar XK-Series engine was upgraded to 294 hp and 303 pound-feet of torque (from 284 lb-ft), sending the coupe from zero to 60 in 6.1 seconds. That year also saw a new six-speed automatic and more than 900 other mostly minor changes, none of which touched the still-attractive sheet metal. After that, the XK8 prowled about through 2006 without any significant updates.
The high-performance XKR featured a supercharged version of the 4.0-liter V8, making 370 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque. Zero to 60 mph in the coupe was accomplished in 5.1 seconds. The 2003 revisions also applied to the XKR, including a power boost to 390 hp and 399 lb-ft of torque.
Prior to the XK8, Jaguar offered the XJS coupe and convertible. The latter appeared in 1989, replacing the odd "Cabriolet" model, which featured a Jeep Wrangler-esque retractable roof that maintained the window frames. By 1990, a 262-hp 5.3-liter V12 was the standard engine. It was briefly replaced in 1993 by a 4.0-liter inline-6 making only 219 hp, but a new 278-hp 6.0-liter V12 emerged in 1994 to complement the standard six-cylinder. A four-speed automatic replaced the ancient GM TH400 three-speed auto in 1993. In 1992, a new head- and taillight design debuted.
User Reviews:
Showing 1 through 10 of 205.00-
the real ultimate driving macine - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
By art vandelae - December 29 - 2:00 amthis car rides impeckably smooth.fast. handling is better than others. Jaguar finds a seemingly flawless blend of passion and devotion towards thier cars.
-
XKR Better than ever - 2001 Jaguar XK-Series
By joepizzie - December 24 - 1:53 amI decided to purchase an XKR after owning numerous Porsche 928, 930, Corvettes, and yes, even an XJ12. I never forgave Jaguar for such poor quality and mechanics in the old Jaguars. What a great surprise the new Jaguar is for new or old Jag owners. The quality is evident in every part. The performance is exciting and you just cant beat the styling.
-
Jaguar XKR - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
By JDRothschild - November 28 - 10:00 amThe most opulant interior Ive seen in any auto. Timeless exterior styling. Everywhere I go, people take out their cameras and snap pictures. Incredible accelleration, unbelievable cornering (due to electronic suspension and traction control). Sophistocated integrated electronics have been very well thought out. This auto sets the standard for "high-performance" that no other auto can match.
-
my xkr - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
By nsxman - November 11 - 10:00 amIt is fast, smooth, and comfortable. Sure footed and a dream to drive. The styling is tsteful and timeless.
-
I LOVE THIS CAR - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
By Dr Mike - October 14 - 1:16 amThis car is amazing. The dealer is fantastic and Ive had very few problems (a/c drainage hose clogged but was easily blown out by dealer and the lighter doesnt work). Otherwise the car has been a dream!
-
Motoring Delight - 2001 Jaguar XK-Series
By NiceWheels - September 12 - 9:40 amThe car is a fantastic machine with timeless styling. The generous use of high quality wood and leather make it a pleasure to sit in each and every time. Rear seat is absolutely unusable even by my toddlers. Should not even be there. I still look forward to driving the car which is more than I can say for most cars after the initial euphoria wears off.
-
Wyoming - 2004 Jaguar XK-Series
By cut7 - August 29 - 2:00 amI have never driven or owned a car that gets to the speeds as fast as my XKR does. I own 3 Jags (68 E, 90 XJS conv.) and the XKR is by far the fastest. As with all Jags, the looks are very sexy.
-
Keep your Mercedes and Porsches - 2005 Jaguar XK-Series
By 1 of 250 - August 12 - 10:00 amJust stay clear of any potholes! During a rain storm I hit a rain filled one and caused $1200.00 in front-end damage to the front passenger wheel assembly. 20" low profile wheels are great looking but extreme attention must be given to the roadways.
-
WOW, beautiful, stunning coupe - 2008 Jaguar XK-Series
By John M - August 11 - 7:33 amGreat car, the coupe design and look is as close to an old E-Type as anyone will get. Love it like my 911, but much easier to commute - and not an ounce of harsh highway ride. Light, fast, beautiful and good mileage. The coupe is just stunning.
-
Awesome car!!! - 2002 Jaguar XK-Series
By Mary Watson - August 8 - 2:00 amThis car was just really nice when I bought it little did I know it was goingt to be amazing to drive I recommend this car to anyone who is thinking about buying it you will love it I know you will. Have Fun!!
