Jaguar XJ8

ENGINE 4196cc/V8/DOHC POWER 300bhp@6000rpm TORQUE 310lb ft@4100rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 155mph 0-60MPH 6.3sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-26mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, six-speed automatic MoT 12 months ODOMETER 84,000 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This particular XJ8 was first owned by footballer, Gary Lineker, and was then passed on to his father – and it feels crisp and as-new. The surge from the V8 engine is fantastic without being too exuberant – just a warm growl from beneath that beautifully rendered bonnet. The ride comfort is perfect, with corrugations dealt with crisply. It takes corners quite well – the steering is light but precise, and the brakes are strong yet predictable. We didn’t feel any peculiar clonks, rattles or vibrations through the suspension, and the steering was free from slop. The automatic gearbox moved through the ratios seamlessly, and sticking it into sport mode only made things more exciting, in a good way. The brake feel was good, with no vibrations through the pedals or tramlining. It’s a potent (prawn) cocktail of good vibes, this car.

BODYWORK CHECK

The blue paintwork – Gary is still a Leicester fan – gleams, even in the cold and wet day we visited the vendor. It’s been fully prepped, so it’s not wanting for anything. We couldn’t find any corrosion on the car – it’s clearly avoided the worst of the road salt (and vinegar). All the panels are as Coventry intended. The chromework is free from misting and any other marks. The alloy wheels are free from corrosion and the premium-brand tyres that encircle each one have plenty of tread remaining.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

We had to be really picky to find any issues. The passenger door bin is a bit grubby, and there are some scratches and marks on the steering wheel, but the cream interior is beautifully presented. There are a few minor crease marks and signs of wear, but it hasn’t been abused. There are some minor marks on the driver’s door moulding but otherwise everything looks good. The headlining is perfect, and there are no cracks or creases in the dashboard and centre console. The air conditioning system works perfectly and the heater gets up to temperature quickly.

UNDER THE BONNET

It’s all in good condition, with no signs of corrosion. Opening the oil filler cap reveals no oxidisation. All the fluids are up to the maximum mark and none decided to leak out during our test. A quick look at the paperwork file reveals largely annual servicing at main dealer Sturgess Jaguar, plus some receipts for work carried out.

THE CCW VIEW

We’re not sure how far celebrity cachet goes with an ex-Gary Lineker Jaguar. But this XJ8 is simply a lovely place to be, and in excellent condition. Even though it’s covered more than 80,000 miles, it certainly doesn’t feel that way from behind the wheel. If you’re looking for a top-notch XJ8, then this has scored from the half-way line. Nathan Chadwick