2002 Jaguar XJ Sport
ENGINE 3248cc/V8/DOHC POWER 240bhp@6350rpm TORQUE 2331b ft@4350rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 140mph 0-60MPH 81sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 23-25mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed auto MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 33,226 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Turn the ignition key and the 3.2-litre V8 starts readily and settles to a smooth idle. It soon warms through and proves to be smooth and powerful, with the benefit of quiet, seamless changes from the sophisticated fi ve-speed automatic transmission. The firmer Sport suspension is less forgiving than standard Jaguars over poor road surfaces, although this becomes a benefi t on smoother country lanes. The ride feels factoryfirm and is entirely free of any unwanted noises. Swift progress is offset nicely by powerful brakes, which bring this heavy saloon to a halt smartly with minimal fuss and no pulling to either side. Overall this XJ Sport displays no noticeable drivetrain issues to worry about.
BODYWORK CHECK
The British Racing Green finish had yet to undergo pre-sales preparation so most of the light scratches to the offside rear quarter and boot lid will disappear. The bonnet has a shallow dent towards the bulkhead on the passenger side and the front bumper has been caught along the leading edge, also on the nearside. All the panel gaps are correct and there is no evidence of any body repairs, although stone chips on the offside mirror cover and one on the driver’s door handle will need touching in. There’s faded paint in a couple of areas of the bootlid opening trim.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior door and dash fascia plates are finished in a complementary green effect and the ivory leather is in great condition. Some wear to the driver’s seat bolster is normal and apparent here, and there’s a stain on the driver’s seat belt. The black carpets have been protected by factory overmats and show minimal wear. All the gauges and switchgear operate as they should, likewise the host of features, which include air conditioning, heated seats, rear parking sensors and the factory-fitted radio/cassette/CD multichanger.
UNDER THE BONNET
There are no signs of oil or coolant leaks around the engine, but it would benefit from a valet and the plates that secure the suspension need to be repainted in satin black to keep the light surface rust in check. The history file is limited but what it has is interesting. It was first registered to the Browns Lane factory and Jaguar used it as a company demonstrator or display vehicle. A further two owners show on the V5 while the MoT records confi rm the low mileage, plus a couple of spells off the road. The service history includes four stamps, the most recent carried out a few hundred miles ago.
THE CCW VIEW
This well-priced low-mileage example has a few exterior blemishes, but the cabin is superb and the V8 smooth and powerful. One worth a look.