The 4.0 supercharged was 370 bhp, Jeremy Clarkson had one, there was a Top Gear special where Jeremy was racing Tiff Needell around the Alpine track at Millbrook, Jeremy was in the XJR , Tiff was in the V8 BMW M5 , great comparison
Great VIdeo Of The 37ObhP Jag XJR X3O8 wIth Jeremy On Them Channel vS TIff In The fun Trendy Red Smart E39 bMW M5 head-to-head 👍 👍 👍 I had Photo wIth TIff at The NEC Mar2O15 Very truly fun Talened Man The bMW Z3M he Told me he Loved 👍 😁
@@kevrobierts8235 Tiff got an Epic voice, it Vibes enthusiasm, and emotion! Loved hearing his voice in racing games The man is a True Racing Icon! in many ways 😉 ruclips.net/video/0xXyDJA4CuA/видео.html
Yes definitely 370 bhp for the Supercharged 4.0 v8 - I think the earlier supercharged 3.6 straight 6 was 340 bhp... Very nice Jags - These were the last of the best authentic Jags and best looking in my opinion... but BIG !
These Jaguars had not only heritage but character by the skip load. Compared to the later releases they sort of became a car with a Jaguar badge. I appreciate times move an and so should we but some how the identity go diluted. Many thanks for sharing Matt, I remember the days when this replace the XJ40 that was arguably the first of the last proper XJ.
Wonderful cars, agree with you about the obsession about putting everything onto a screen. Car manufacturers seem to judge luxury now by how big the screen is. Yes I love gadgets I also don't link being distracted while driving !
I ran an XJSport a few years ago.Same engine as the standard model but the springs were a bit stiffer.Mine was the darker gunmetal colour with black leather and maple wood and had the XJR wheels (it looked identical)which was a beautiful combination.Best three grand I ever spent. I can remember a group of lads being quite disparaging when they noticed the badge on the boot betraying it’s humble “sport“ status but I remember feeling quite good when they all sandwiched themselves into a Renault Clio.
This is such a lovely old car. I miss the Ford era of Jaguars. They were so majestic and just felt very special to be in and drive. Personally I prefer the earlier 6 cylinder models, but the V8s also have their virtues. Modern Jags have lost the X factor that these older cars have in spades, and they just don't have the same romance about them. This is absolutely glorious. What a lovely old girl.
Let's get this out of the way. The AJ6 was a dinosaur. However, Jag needed a modern inline 6 to maintain heritage. Ford had a replacement in the Aussie Barra which in its many guises produced up to 436 hp. For whatever reason, Jag were too snobby to embrace Ford which was a real shame. Look at them now. Jag's European connection is tenuous at best.
@@encinobalboa It was not a dinosaur. It was a fabulous long lived engine, my XJ40 4.0 Sovereign had well over 200K, when I let it go, and never used any oil or water - it was a lot longer lived than the XK engined XJ6 it replaced. The later AJ16 was the prettiest of Jag engines too, with it's silver cam covers. Let's face it the stupendous V12 was never thus with all the spaghetti on top. If they'd followed Lambo's beauty people would be raving more about that engine, now, as they should be. The AJ6 was also utterly smooth as only a straight six can be. The Ford engines were not a patch.
One of the reasons I love my old XJ40 is that it just glides over our terribly potholed roads, over here in Tuscany. Even on the deeply rutted and broken countryside lanes it still retains that delightful, buttery wafting quality. The only minor rattle comes from the metal door security lock pins! 🤦🤦
Great review! I had one for six years and it was the best car I ever owned. Very reliable and a great motorway cruiser - 2-300 miles and you emerged as fresh as when you set off. Narrow lanes were no problem as although the car is hardly small the sight lines from the drivers seat were so good you could place it exactly where you wanted on the road. The engine was silky smooth and the gearbox changed almost imperceptibly. A class act! Bad bits? Poor legroom in the back and when reversing you really needed the bleeps.
The odds of this haha, I've just bought an X308 Sport in silver with black interior 🤣 it's already been away for a week for £1200 of work and still needs more like every big cat but I already love it
My pal Brian loves Jags. I recall him giving me a lift home from work in 1974 in his Series 1 XJ6 4.2 automatic. He sold that but still has his mk. 2 shape Daimler V8 and a Series 3 XJ6 4.2, the latter of which I think is still the best looking Jag saloon ever made.
Wooden steering wheels are simply incredible to use and I love mine. My uncle had a few XJs and he traded his G-reg XJ6 for an X300 XJsport in silvery blue with cream/blue piping and burr walnut. I can still smell the leather now, and he let me drive it! The smoothest car I've ever driven bar none. And even with 4 adults, the ride was sublime. Great review Matt! Lovely cats
GREAT REVIEW! I am absolutely crazy about my X308 - a 2002 Vanden Plas - which has been rock solid and gets compliments everywhere it goes. I must admit that I have fantasized about having a vintage Rolls or Bentley, but after experiencing the VDP, I think that I am getting 90% of the thrill of ownership and enjoyment of a Rolls or Bentley with only 10% of the cost/headaches. With the Connolly leather, inlaid burr walnut, picnic tables, extended wheelbase, and lambswool carpets; Jaguar offered more than just a taste of what Rolls and Bentley are famous for...but at a mere fraction of the acquisition/ownership cost. Count me in!
The Series 3 XJ is what first comes to mind when I think "Classy luxury car" - tasteful, strong, with the heritage to bear such a strong name. Far more than Bentley or Rolls Royce, these cars represented the ideal luxury British car to me.
Always preferred the previous engine ( for so called reliability reasons) straight 6 . The 1st V8s were somewhat notorious for premature piston ring wear, due to nikesil liners etc, although they later revised them after 2001 , but the styling revisions of the V8 , subtle they may be , but improved the looks even further to what was already a good looking car. Jaguar , as always great value , a lot of car for the money.
If i would buy a V8 one i would stay clear of the ones before 2001-2. I want to keep a car like this for many years, and those nikasil cylinder linings is probably a recipe for a disaster eventually.
Ran a British racing green 4L Supercharged 6 with cream interior black gloss wood. Hunkered down on massive wheels it looked so good went so well sounded manic and drunk so much juice! Handled brilliant.
Matt, have you been checking out my car history? Last week you gave me a review on my 1980's Carlton/Rekord history and this week you road test an x308 rather like the one that I keep for V8 classic fun. Mine's a last of the line 02 in quartz grey. Makes a lovely partner to my '96 x100 XK8 which only comes out in the summer months. Being in carnival red, that car is just like the one you drove a year or two back. You're right about the x308 rolling. Mine has jaguar's computer controlled shocks but came out of the factory without a rear anti roll bar. Strange combo as not all of them didn't have one. Keep the top content coming! BTW, the supercharged version of the V8 4.0 out out 370bhp, not 340 as stated.
Beautiful car. In the late '70's I owned a 10 year old Mk1 XJ6 4.2 . It was a revelation to me. Fast, quiet, great handling. For a big car, it never felt, or drove, like a big car. That was the only XJ I've owned, but I've always like most of the successors. Right up to the Cullum designed XJ and other Jaguars. To me those Jaguars just looked dated, whereas the earlier XJ's seem to have an aura of timelessness about them. Perhaps there is a clue in Cullum's design philosophy... "I design cool cars for cool people...". What is or isn't cool is very time dependent. And not a patch on the Lyons philosophy of 'Grace, Pace, and Space'.
Jaguar X308s are just so smooth and relaxing to drive every day, a comfy armchair on wheels. Rolls/Bentley same era are nice places to be, just more in the battlecruiser style. The German counterparts are a bit harsh and jumpy and don't have the wood and Conolly aroma - you wouldn't really know if it was leather and wood or not. Of course, its personal preference on how you like you're driving/passenger experience. Some drivers like getting thrown about in their seats, passengers tend not to.
X300/X308 are the lowest among all XJ Types with 1,31M Height ,1,2,3 Series 1m34M, XJ40 1,37M, and..X350 1,45M. These XJ's being so low, does make it a real driving experience, that no other Super Sedan Brand offers. Car got very direct road feeling, steer follows the pavement. Using the J-Gate makes the XJ really touch the limit in corners. The Supercharged X308 got no variable valves,and are fitted with a MB 5G-Tronic, making them pretty reliable. AJV8 was voted Top Ten best Engine, in Year 2000, by WARDs Even in a Daimler, these reliable Ford buttons don't degrade the car. I use a Nulaxy FM Radiotransmitter, to pair Phone or listen Audio . Cost like 15 Pounds, are well worth the money. Thanks for another nice XJ Video, let's keep giving these XJ's the life they deserve ! A last of its kind!
Always had a soft spot for these. A uni friend was obsessed with them back in the day (we were meant to be studying the then-new S-Type production), and randomly I remember the (beautiful) split-rim wheels cost £2400 to specify new
My dad had a 1997 XJ Sport 3.2 V6 about 20 year ago. Had that half leather, half pattern seats and in black like the PM used to have in the late 90's. Used to get dropped off to grammar school in it, but it didn't stand out amongst the P38 Range Rovers and Volvo XC90 which seemed to be the most popular choice for the school run mum / ladies of leisure back then.
I owned a 3.2 XJ Sport and it was a beautiful car, foot to the floor in Sport mode it would rev to 7000rpm. Incredible for a V8. I now own an X308 XJR with some light mods. Lovely car to hustle on tight A and B roads, and will give a lot of modern performance cars a run for their money
I`ve had XJ`s for over a quarter of a century, from the SIII to the 99 X308 XJR which I`ve had for 15 years. Great cars, much nicer than anything German, & I`d say more reliable than them too, contrary to popular belief! Just don't buy a neglected &/or rusty one!
The XJ300 and XJ308 are developments of the XJ40 not really the XJ Series 1-3. For sure pays homage adding those curves reminiscent of the original. A fabulous car, we’re still enjoying our ‘98 XJ Sport 👍
Had a 2001 XJR. My mechanic at the time referred to it as his pension. Loved that car loads, saddened to see that the next owner abandoned it and a MOT failure list full of corrosion. Also drove a x350 V6, went very nicely and so much lighter due to the aluminium construction.
Lovely cars. I nearly bought one in the early 2000s. My wife preferred the LS400 and, as she would be the main driver we went for that instead. No complaints from me though.
Great cars love jags so British had a 4.2 Daimler sovereign x reg horrendous fule consumption then had a v6 x type sport 2.5 was surprised quite good fuel economy great review matt all the best donny
Not a great example of the marque TBH. One LED in the center high brake light is out, the center cluster LCD for the HVAC is failing and it looks like it has seen a hedge or two, judging by the color difference between the body and the bonnet on the driver's side. Immediately obvious in the opening shots at the 00:11 mark.
Talking about screens in cars, I was in a 2018 Renault Scenic yesterday, and its about three buttons and a wait of a few seconds before you can adjust the speed of the interior fan
@@furiousdriving I agree. My car is about 30 years old, I can change the fan speed (as well as most controls) in an instant without taking my eyes off the road
The Jagurar face on the steering wheel and the boot lid is called the "Growler" not the Leaper. The "Leaper" is the cat on the bonnet and the side profile one over the "Jaguar" logo on the CD changer in the boot.
I sadly had to reverse a deal on a 4.2 due to engine smoking, but i'd have another. Great vid Matt, just sorry about the annoying blurring, very distracting.
Reminds me I haven't seen an original XJ6 (2.8 and 4.2) for years, have they all gone? They looked the business at the time, although the 2.8 engine was not liked by many.
You gotta love a bit of quality luxury in one’s life Matt and that Jaguar Sport fits perfect, I think the whole Ford take over was a good thing generally speaking and do remember the horror stories of debasing the Jaguar brand , they didn’t in my view. So Ken Bruce has left the building ☹️, sad day 😢 but long live the BRUCE 😂👌🏻.
Had an R-reg XJR in this colour 10 years ago , and oddly with a cream interior , but couldn't complain as I gave less than £1300 for it and it was seriously quick. The supercharged V8 was 370 BHP by the way. Think you quoted the power for the straight 6 X300 XJR maybe?
Nice review, and I want one ;-) but the X308 is the last of the XJ40 based cars, that debuted in 1986, not the original 60s XJ. So they could pension off the old Series 3, Ford got Jaguar to modify the XJ40 chassis to fit the V12, which must have made it easier to fit the V8 in the later cars.
I owned an x308 & went back to an x300.no nasty ford switch gear shared with the focus & while the x308 dash is nicer, the x300 has more characterful "real jag" interior components.engine wise the aj16 loses a little performance over the v8 but feels smoother.the 4 speed box is dated but much stronger than the x308 unit. Both great cars overall but that straight 6 is the one to have in my oppinion
Never had you down as someone who would say “backup camera”… Must be that Crown Vic rubbing off on you. Is the backup camera only used when the main camera fails? 😂Don’t worry about it. Pet peeve seemingly for only me. Trying to start a campaign but not getting any traction. Did all the placards and organised a protest march but there was only me. Other than that, quality stuff and lovely subject matter once again. 👍
Almost bought one of the X300s in 2020, decided not to because of the slush box. Ended up getting a Peugeot 406 with an even worse gearbox… but much cheaper. I still keep my eye out for one, I’ll probably get one one of these days.
This car was such a breath of fresh air compared to its immediate predecessor and a worthy swan song for the old XJ. The 03-09 350/358 was probably a better car, but this one holds more meaning for me, maybe because it signaled that Jaguar was back. (For the time being anyway - I have zero interest in the succeeding 351 or anything made today - save the F type coupe for beauty alone)
The boot's large enough for that long weekend in the Italian lakes with 'er indoors and as Jaguar had not been the go to car for the criminal for quite a while by then no need to fit a body in as well. Can see that would be fun driving through the Alps. The old routes not through the tunnels.
I had 3 of these and loved them but they are problematic. Rust like nobodies business, and prone to various forms of engine failure; from losing all compression due to port washing to shredding their timing chain tensioners. All that asside.. if I ever found a good one I'd love another.
XJ40 in a new frock (not a bad thing) The Ali body you refer to was known as an X350. The 40, 300 and 308s were also more hardy than the brittle x350. Ali body was a great car but was constantly in need of tlc when it's a daily driver, stability control was alot better on the x350.
Why have you pixeled out the trade plate in the windscreen ? .... I hope you had one on the rear. ... It was missing all the usual Jaguar walnut or maple trim, and I know this is the sport version - but they still managed to include it to the steering wheel - very odd !!
Always fancies one of those. I worked for Renault in the early 2000's and we took in an old XJ6 sport in red as a part x that i used as my car for a couple of days until we passed it on.m We could have the option to buy part x's and I wish I had done so. Have you reviewed one of these and if not can you track one down?
This design could have progressed in the same way as BMW have done with their saloons. Despite the credentials of the replacement's designer - it just didn't 'cut the mustard'!
Jag management were happy to take Ford money but resisted efforts to improve reliability with Ford parts. Think about it. Ford had an all aluminum 32V V8 and vastly more reliable and proven electrical systems. An X308 with what was essentially a Marauder drive train and electronics would have been reliable and just as fast.
A lovely vehicle. I love old jags. Having a few in the ‘collection’. However my daily is the X350, V6. With 240bhp, like this one on film. However, being all aluminium, my car would presumably be faster, and certainly be better on fuel. Yes, not a V8 but the same power from a 3.0 V6 with less weight. Anyway, I wouldn’t say no to a 308!
Great car and now a modern classic in it's own right. My understanding is that some items like the drivetrain and rear suspension where carried over from the Series 3, but this is not a revamp it was a different product under the skin which just looked very much like a series 3 revamp, in fact it shares more with the XJ40 from the 80's underneath.. The series 3 is possibly the most beautiful saloon car of all time, find me a better looking one! The X300/308 looks amazing in it's own way... but it looks way more 'Fordy' in placee.
It used the cabin section of the Series 3 with new front and rear grafted on and carried over much of the suspension/drive train, so its effectively a very heavy facelift
@@ldwp6395 s2 looks beautiful but full credit to pinninfarina for making it look different with the series 3. Then a series 2 looks bloated around the curve of those front and rear wings, beautiful but not as slim as a series 3. S3 is more graceful
It made me laugh when you said the manual seats were down to weight saving because 'Sport'! Actually, it's more to do with cheap, in the same vane as the original Range Rover Sport was a cheap version of the Range Rover. Neither the Jaguar or the Range Rover could be described as sporty compared with any of the 4-litre models. I know. I got fooled by that badge and bought one - same colour and same wheels (which are actually X300 XJR wheels). The 3.2 is not only underpowered compared to the 4.0, but it lacks the cylinder liners of the larger engine. The pistons run directly in the aluminium block, which is protected by a thin layer of Nikasil which wears out causing failure. However, without a doubt, it is a tremendous looking car. To look at, you wonder how they managed to get a V8 (or even the straight six on the X300) under that low sleek bonnet.
I remember the top gear episode for the tearful goodby of the series 3 V12 Jaguar . Backing music was the Doors "This is goodby" and I cried , oh how I cried and try as I might , I just couldnt get my head round the new XJ40 . I squinted , I stood back , I sucked air through the gaps in my teeth , and I corrupted my imagination and still could not get happy with the XJ40 . It kind of looked like the series Jags but wide of the mark , then later 40's were closer to the series cars but still hopelessly missing the bullseye . The series cars were the epitome of all that was Jaguar . The 40 effort was all that was contained on the back of a fag packet drawn with a blunt pencil by a student of Harris Mann kicked out of class for larking about . If you want looks , reliability and the wow factor , find a low mileage Japanese imported series 3 , If you want tired old unreliable gadgets with a car with the looks of an old lady with too much make up, buy a 40 .
More like it. Haven't watched the Ferrari video as there are channels better suited to such exotica which I have no interest in, this channel excels at the banger end of the spectrum, hence the view counts for such cars are better
@@AndyK.1 Jaguar introduced Reverse Park Control in 1999, so don't listen to him. Although this is true somewhat, it doesn't apply to Christian's X300. Jaguar knew about this technology in 1981 for XJ40 and must have caved in under Ford ownership.
A classy car for sure but the prancing Jaguar on the front of the bonnet is a terrible touch. Its like buying a new Ferrari and hanging a pair of furry dice off the rear view mirror. Very bad taste. But I enjoyed the review thanks
The 4.0 supercharged was 370 bhp, Jeremy Clarkson had one, there was a Top Gear special where Jeremy was racing Tiff Needell around the Alpine track at Millbrook, Jeremy was in the XJR , Tiff was in the V8 BMW M5 , great comparison
Great VIdeo Of The 37ObhP Jag XJR X3O8 wIth Jeremy On Them Channel vS TIff In The fun Trendy Red Smart E39 bMW M5 head-to-head 👍 👍 👍 I had Photo wIth TIff at The NEC Mar2O15 Very truly fun Talened Man The bMW Z3M he Told me he Loved 👍 😁
@@kevrobierts8235 Tiff got an Epic voice, it Vibes enthusiasm, and emotion!
Loved hearing his voice in racing games
The man is a True Racing Icon! in many ways 😉
ruclips.net/video/0xXyDJA4CuA/видео.html
@@skelejp9982 I Gree No1 Can True TIff IS the Man
Yes definitely 370 bhp for the Supercharged 4.0 v8 - I think the earlier supercharged 3.6 straight 6 was 340 bhp...
Very nice Jags - These were the last of the best authentic Jags and best looking in my opinion... but BIG !
The XJR 6 cylinder was 4 litre supercharged, 326 bhp, at that time the V12 was on sale aswell, but the V12 6 litre made 318 bhp
These Jaguars had not only heritage but character by the skip load. Compared to the later releases they sort of became a car with a Jaguar badge. I appreciate times move an and so should we but some how the identity go diluted. Many thanks for sharing Matt, I remember the days when this replace the XJ40 that was arguably the first of the last proper XJ.
The Leaper is the bonnet emblem!! The face on the steering wheel boss is the Growler!!!!
Scrolling through comments to see if someone had already said this 😂
Wonderful cars, agree with you about the obsession about putting everything onto a screen. Car manufacturers seem to judge luxury now by how big the screen is. Yes I love gadgets I also don't link being distracted while driving !
So agree with you! Don't you think analogue instruments are just so nicer to look at and easier on the eye than screens?
I ran an XJSport a few years ago.Same engine as the standard model but the springs were a bit stiffer.Mine was the darker gunmetal colour with black leather and maple wood and had the XJR wheels (it looked identical)which was a beautiful combination.Best three grand I ever spent. I can remember a group of lads being quite disparaging when they noticed the badge on the boot betraying it’s humble “sport“ status but I remember feeling quite good when they all sandwiched themselves into a Renault Clio.
This is such a lovely old car. I miss the Ford era of Jaguars. They were so majestic and just felt very special to be in and drive. Personally I prefer the earlier 6 cylinder models, but the V8s also have their virtues. Modern Jags have lost the X factor that these older cars have in spades, and they just don't have the same romance about them. This is absolutely glorious. What a lovely old girl.
Let's get this out of the way. The AJ6 was a dinosaur. However, Jag needed a modern inline 6 to maintain heritage. Ford had a replacement in the Aussie Barra which in its many guises produced up to 436 hp. For whatever reason, Jag were too snobby to embrace Ford which was a real shame. Look at them now. Jag's European connection is tenuous at best.
@@encinobalboa It was not a dinosaur. It was a fabulous long lived engine, my XJ40 4.0 Sovereign had well over 200K, when I let it go, and never used any oil or water - it was a lot longer lived than the XK engined XJ6 it replaced. The later AJ16 was the prettiest of Jag engines too, with it's silver cam covers. Let's face it the stupendous V12 was never thus with all the spaghetti on top. If they'd followed Lambo's beauty people would be raving more about that engine, now, as they should be. The AJ6 was also utterly smooth as only a straight six can be. The Ford engines were not a patch.
One of the reasons I love my old XJ40 is that it just glides over our terribly potholed roads, over here in Tuscany. Even on the deeply rutted and broken countryside lanes it still retains that delightful, buttery wafting quality. The only minor rattle comes from the metal door security lock pins! 🤦🤦
Great review! I had one for six years and it was the best car I ever owned. Very reliable and a great motorway cruiser - 2-300 miles and you emerged as fresh as when you set off. Narrow lanes were no problem as although the car is hardly small the sight lines from the drivers seat were so good you could place it exactly where you wanted on the road. The engine was silky smooth and the gearbox changed almost imperceptibly. A class act! Bad bits? Poor legroom in the back and when reversing you really needed the bleeps.
The odds of this haha, I've just bought an X308 Sport in silver with black interior 🤣 it's already been away for a week for £1200 of work and still needs more like every big cat but I already love it
My pal Brian loves Jags. I recall him giving me a lift home from work in 1974 in his Series 1 XJ6 4.2 automatic. He sold that but still has his mk. 2 shape Daimler V8 and a Series 3 XJ6 4.2, the latter of which I think is still the best looking Jag saloon ever made.
Wooden steering wheels are simply incredible to use and I love mine. My uncle had a few XJs and he traded his G-reg XJ6 for an X300 XJsport in silvery blue with cream/blue piping and burr walnut. I can still smell the leather now, and he let me drive it! The smoothest car I've ever driven bar none. And even with 4 adults, the ride was sublime. Great review Matt! Lovely cats
GREAT REVIEW! I am absolutely crazy about my X308 - a 2002 Vanden Plas - which has been rock solid and gets compliments everywhere it goes. I must admit that I have fantasized about having a vintage Rolls or Bentley, but after experiencing the VDP, I think that I am getting 90% of the thrill of ownership and enjoyment of a Rolls or Bentley with only 10% of the cost/headaches. With the Connolly leather, inlaid burr walnut, picnic tables, extended wheelbase, and lambswool carpets; Jaguar offered more than just a taste of what Rolls and Bentley are famous for...but at a mere fraction of the acquisition/ownership cost. Count me in!
The Series 3 XJ is what first comes to mind when I think "Classy luxury car" - tasteful, strong, with the heritage to bear such a strong name. Far more than Bentley or Rolls Royce, these cars represented the ideal luxury British car to me.
Always preferred the previous engine ( for so called reliability reasons) straight 6 . The 1st V8s were somewhat notorious for premature piston ring wear, due to nikesil liners etc, although they later revised them after 2001 , but the styling revisions of the V8 , subtle they may be , but improved the looks even further to what was already a good looking car. Jaguar , as always great value , a lot of car for the money.
If i would buy a V8 one i would stay clear of the ones before 2001-2. I want to keep a car like this for many years, and those nikasil cylinder linings is probably a recipe for a disaster eventually.
@@drumtum most of the early ones had the engines replaced by jaguar.i had 2 from 1998,both had replacement later engines in.they are superb cars.
Ran a British racing green 4L Supercharged 6 with cream interior black gloss wood. Hunkered down on massive wheels it looked so good went so well sounded manic and drunk so much juice! Handled brilliant.
Matt, have you been checking out my car history? Last week you gave me a review on my 1980's Carlton/Rekord history and this week you road test an x308 rather like the one that I keep for V8 classic fun. Mine's a last of the line 02 in quartz grey. Makes a lovely partner to my '96 x100 XK8 which only comes out in the summer months. Being in carnival red, that car is just like the one you drove a year or two back.
You're right about the x308 rolling. Mine has jaguar's computer controlled shocks but came out of the factory without a rear anti roll bar. Strange combo as not all of them didn't have one. Keep the top content coming!
BTW, the supercharged version of the V8 4.0 out out 370bhp, not 340 as stated.
Jags are doing the rounds with youtubers atm so its good to see your view, keep it up!
Beautiful car. In the late '70's I owned a 10 year old Mk1 XJ6 4.2 . It was a revelation to me. Fast, quiet, great handling. For a big car, it never felt, or drove, like a big car. That was the only XJ I've owned, but I've always like most of the successors. Right up to the Cullum designed XJ and other Jaguars. To me those Jaguars just looked dated, whereas the earlier XJ's seem to have an aura of timelessness about them. Perhaps there is a clue in Cullum's design philosophy... "I design cool cars for cool people...". What is or isn't cool is very time dependent. And not a patch on the Lyons philosophy of 'Grace, Pace, and Space'.
Travelled in the rear of a company X308 LWB once. The doors were enormous and the chauffeur was very polite.
Jaguar X308s are just so smooth and relaxing to drive every day, a comfy armchair on wheels. Rolls/Bentley same era are nice places to be, just more in the battlecruiser style. The German counterparts are a bit harsh and jumpy and don't have the wood and Conolly aroma - you wouldn't really know if it was leather and wood or not. Of course, its personal preference on how you like you're driving/passenger experience. Some drivers like getting thrown about in their seats, passengers tend not to.
X300/X308 are the lowest among all XJ Types with 1,31M Height ,1,2,3 Series 1m34M, XJ40 1,37M, and..X350 1,45M.
These XJ's being so low, does make it a real driving experience, that no other Super Sedan Brand offers.
Car got very direct road feeling, steer follows the pavement.
Using the J-Gate makes the XJ really touch the limit in corners.
The Supercharged X308 got no variable valves,and are fitted with a MB 5G-Tronic, making them pretty reliable.
AJV8 was voted Top Ten best Engine, in Year 2000, by WARDs
Even in a Daimler, these reliable Ford buttons don't degrade the car.
I use a Nulaxy FM Radiotransmitter, to pair Phone or listen Audio .
Cost like 15 Pounds, are well worth the money.
Thanks for another nice XJ Video, let's keep giving these XJ's the life they deserve !
A last of its kind!
Always had a soft spot for these. A uni friend was obsessed with them back in the day (we were meant to be studying the then-new S-Type production), and randomly I remember the (beautiful) split-rim wheels cost £2400 to specify new
The XJ40 was great very unrated and paved the way for what followed. Hope you get to review an XJ40 soon Matt, a proper Straight Six Sovereign spec👍
Absolutely. A Continent Crosser.
My dad had a 1997 XJ Sport 3.2 V6 about 20 year ago. Had that half leather, half pattern seats and in black like the PM used to have in the late 90's. Used to get dropped off to grammar school in it, but it didn't stand out amongst the P38 Range Rovers and Volvo XC90 which seemed to be the most popular choice for the school run mum / ladies of leisure back then.
I owned a 3.2 XJ Sport and it was a beautiful car, foot to the floor in Sport mode it would rev to 7000rpm. Incredible for a V8. I now own an X308 XJR with some light mods. Lovely car to hustle on tight A and B roads, and will give a lot of modern performance cars a run for their money
I`ve had XJ`s for over a quarter of a century, from the SIII to the 99 X308 XJR which I`ve had for 15 years. Great cars, much nicer than anything German, & I`d say more reliable than them too, contrary to popular belief! Just don't buy a neglected &/or rusty one!
I sold these new, the XJR mesh grille insert was a very popular upgrade at the time
Indeed … The original sports grille had vertical slats and was body coloured. Looked very smart as well.
The XJ300 and XJ308 are developments of the XJ40 not really the XJ Series 1-3. For sure pays homage adding those curves reminiscent of the original. A fabulous car, we’re still enjoying our ‘98 XJ Sport 👍
Correct,nothing at all to do with series 3.
Had a 2001 XJR. My mechanic at the time referred to it as his pension. Loved that car loads, saddened to see that the next owner abandoned it and a MOT failure list full of corrosion.
Also drove a x350 V6, went very nicely and so much lighter due to the aluminium construction.
GB car industrie at its best - I will not sell my X308 come hell or high water! Greetings from a German Jaaag addict.
Lovely cars. I nearly bought one in the early 2000s. My wife preferred the LS400 and, as she would be the main driver we went for that instead. No complaints from me though.
Two the best cars build on this planet.
Great cars love jags so British had a 4.2 Daimler sovereign x reg horrendous fule consumption then had a v6 x type sport 2.5 was surprised quite good fuel economy great review matt all the best donny
Not a great example of the marque TBH. One LED in the center high brake light is out, the center cluster LCD for the HVAC is failing and it looks like it has seen a hedge or two, judging by the color difference between the body and the bonnet on the driver's side. Immediately obvious in the opening shots at the 00:11 mark.
I was following a B reg (84 -85) XJ earlier just outside Swansea.
It was in remarkably good condition.
Talking about screens in cars, I was in a 2018 Renault Scenic yesterday, and its about three buttons and a wait of a few seconds before you can adjust the speed of the interior fan
This is exactly the way it shouldn’t be, but too often is
@@furiousdriving I agree. My car is about 30 years old, I can change the fan speed (as well as most controls) in an instant without taking my eyes off the road
The Jagurar face on the steering wheel and the boot lid is called the "Growler" not the Leaper. The "Leaper" is the cat on the bonnet and the side profile one over the "Jaguar" logo on the CD changer in the boot.
Good review as usual! Love the car, always wanted an XJR one. Unfortunately I got scared by the reliability stories.
I sadly had to reverse a deal on a 4.2 due to engine smoking, but i'd have another.
Great vid Matt, just sorry about the annoying blurring, very distracting.
Nice car, Matt. I would prefer a 6 banger I think, but I love the black wood and the rest of the interior on this one 😍
I loved my 2002 xjr it was a sleeper and the original first owner was Jaguar f1 team
Reminds me I haven't seen an original XJ6 (2.8 and 4.2) for years, have they all gone? They looked the business at the time, although the 2.8 engine was not liked by many.
You gotta love a bit of quality luxury in one’s life Matt and that Jaguar Sport fits perfect, I think the whole Ford take over was a good thing generally speaking and do remember the horror stories of debasing the Jaguar brand , they didn’t in my view. So Ken Bruce has left the building ☹️, sad day 😢 but long live the BRUCE 😂👌🏻.
Very sad, now to find his new station!
Had an R-reg XJR in this colour 10 years ago , and oddly with a cream interior , but couldn't complain as I gave less than £1300 for it and it was seriously quick.
The supercharged V8 was 370 BHP by the way. Think you quoted the power for the straight 6 X300 XJR maybe?
Nice review, and I want one ;-) but the X308 is the last of the XJ40 based cars, that debuted in 1986, not the original 60s XJ.
So they could pension off the old Series 3, Ford got Jaguar to modify the XJ40 chassis to fit the V12, which must have made it easier to fit the V8 in the later cars.
I Prefer the XJ40 to the X308, the wood and leather, plastics, were better on the 40, and the door frames didn't rust away to powder.
I owned an x308 & went back to an x300.no nasty ford switch gear shared with the focus & while the x308 dash is nicer, the x300 has more characterful "real jag" interior components.engine wise the aj16 loses a little performance over the v8 but feels smoother.the 4 speed box is dated but much stronger than the x308 unit.
Both great cars overall but that straight 6 is the one to have in my oppinion
Never had you down as someone who would say “backup camera”… Must be that Crown Vic rubbing off on you. Is the backup camera only used when the main camera fails? 😂Don’t worry about it. Pet peeve seemingly for only me. Trying to start a campaign but not getting any traction. Did all the placards and organised a protest march but there was only me. Other than that, quality stuff and lovely subject matter once again. 👍
Almost bought one of the X300s in 2020, decided not to because of the slush box. Ended up getting a Peugeot 406 with an even worse gearbox… but much cheaper. I still keep my eye out for one, I’ll probably get one one of these days.
And here you are again Mr Wood, eyeing up another suspiciously cheap X300.
This car was such a breath of fresh air compared to its immediate predecessor and a worthy swan song for the old XJ. The 03-09 350/358 was probably a better car, but this one holds more meaning for me, maybe because it signaled that Jaguar was back. (For the time being anyway - I have zero interest in the succeeding 351 or anything made today - save the F type coupe for beauty alone)
The boot's large enough for that long weekend in the Italian lakes with 'er indoors and as Jaguar had not been the go to car for the criminal for quite a while by then no need to fit a body in as well. Can see that would be fun driving through the Alps. The old routes not through the tunnels.
I had 3 of these and loved them but they are problematic. Rust like nobodies business, and prone to various forms of engine failure; from losing all compression due to port washing to shredding their timing chain tensioners. All that asside.. if I ever found a good one I'd love another.
XJ40 in a new frock (not a bad thing)
The Ali body you refer to was known as an X350.
The 40, 300 and 308s were also more hardy than the brittle x350.
Ali body was a great car but was constantly in need of tlc when it's a daily driver, stability control was alot better on the x350.
Such a classy car, love the shape and the interior. Pure English style and grace, would love to own one. Great review Matt, keep it up!
Great V8 engine too, especially the later versions that went all the way to WELL over 500bhp!
Why have you pixeled out the trade plate in the windscreen ? .... I hope you had one on the rear. ... It was missing all the usual Jaguar walnut or maple trim, and I know this is the sport version - but they still managed to include it to the steering wheel - very odd !!
Always fancies one of those. I worked for Renault in the early 2000's and we took in an old XJ6 sport in red as a part x that i used as my car for a couple of days until we passed it on.m We could have the option to buy part x's and I wish I had done so.
Have you reviewed one of these and if not can you track one down?
Really enjoying the videos on the channel keep up the good work 👍👍👍
I like the red pull handle under bonnet in case the battery is flat.
This design could have progressed in the same way as BMW have done with their saloons. Despite the credentials of the replacement's designer - it just didn't 'cut the mustard'!
Great car and reviews very cool car with some much history 😊
Jag management were happy to take Ford money but resisted efforts to improve reliability with Ford parts. Think about it. Ford had an all aluminum 32V V8 and vastly more reliable and proven electrical systems. An X308 with what was essentially a Marauder drive train and electronics would have been reliable and just as fast.
Suffice to say, I could live very happily with that. It's gorgeous.
Would have been nice with a manual box!
The shape of the dash design pays homage to the sweeping wing of a spitfire. Now mirrored famously by the new roof at Siverstone
never had a chance to park my bum in one. Well described though. Thanks for the vid.
9:40 honk!
I did 40k in one of these,4.0V8, greatest Car I ever owned.
09:20 CUBE!!!!
Funny how so many cars that went slightly under the radar, are so good. 🙃
What a stunning Jaaaggggg...... It really does suit you sir.
That bonnet leaper is annoying as it was never standard fit.
Yes it was.
I fitted the solid non-spring type laper to my XJ40s, never got a pull for it haha
Not standard in UK
@@christianpentecost3047 no it wasnt,last jaguar to be fitted as standard with a leaper was tge 420g.however in america they still have them.
A lovely vehicle. I love old jags. Having a few in the ‘collection’. However my daily is the X350, V6. With 240bhp, like this one on film.
However, being all aluminium, my car would presumably be faster, and certainly be better on fuel. Yes, not a V8 but the same power from a 3.0 V6 with less weight. Anyway, I wouldn’t say no to a 308!
I saw one of these many years back were the actual registration plate was "XJ40".
I wish you can review the Jaguar XJ (X358) model?
Great car and now a modern classic in it's own right. My understanding is that some items like the drivetrain and rear suspension where carried over from the Series 3, but this is not a revamp it was a different product under the skin which just looked very much like a series 3 revamp, in fact it shares more with the XJ40 from the 80's underneath.. The series 3 is possibly the most beautiful saloon car of all time, find me a better looking one! The X300/308 looks amazing in it's own way... but it looks way more 'Fordy' in placee.
I'd say a series 2 looks better.
It used the cabin section of the Series 3 with new front and rear grafted on and carried over much of the suspension/drive train, so its effectively a very heavy facelift
@@furiousdriving very Interesting!
@@ldwp6395 s2 looks beautiful but full credit to pinninfarina for making it look different with the series 3. Then a series 2 looks bloated around the curve of those front and rear wings, beautiful but not as slim as a series 3. S3 is more graceful
@@usuallyfixingtinkering but with a series 3 there are those bumpers.
very nice matt
You would think they would at least have a ski port to get longer things in the boot.
nice
Great review.
I’d have one of these as an all year car if it wasn’t for the rust issue
It made me laugh when you said the manual seats were down to weight saving because 'Sport'! Actually, it's more to do with cheap, in the same vane as the original Range Rover Sport was a cheap version of the Range Rover. Neither the Jaguar or the Range Rover could be described as sporty compared with any of the 4-litre models. I know. I got fooled by that badge and bought one - same colour and same wheels (which are actually X300 XJR wheels). The 3.2 is not only underpowered compared to the 4.0, but it lacks the cylinder liners of the larger engine. The pistons run directly in the aluminium block, which is protected by a thin layer of Nikasil which wears out causing failure. However, without a doubt, it is a tremendous looking car. To look at, you wonder how they managed to get a V8 (or even the straight six on the X300) under that low sleek bonnet.
Is the suspension firmer on the sport model?
Im not sure
Yes,its firmer than standard but not as firm as the xjr.its a pritty happy mix actually.
The X300 Sport rode on slightly lower springs and Bilstein shocks so was firmer.
I'd assume it will be the same with this X308 Sport.
Yes, sport firm. XJR had active suspension (cats) so softer until you need it
@@AndyK.1 Interesting. Do you think the XJR was better riding interns of comfort until you pushed it? I think the next model XJ was cats as standard?
I remember the top gear episode for the tearful goodby of the series 3 V12 Jaguar . Backing music was the Doors "This is goodby" and I cried , oh how I cried and try as I might , I just couldnt get my head round the new XJ40 . I squinted , I stood back , I sucked air through the gaps in my teeth , and I corrupted my imagination and still could not get happy with the XJ40 . It kind of looked like the series Jags but wide of the mark , then later 40's were closer to the series cars but still hopelessly missing the bullseye . The series cars were the epitome of all that was Jaguar . The 40 effort was all that was contained on the back of a fag packet drawn with a blunt pencil by a student of Harris Mann kicked out of class for larking about . If you want looks , reliability and the wow factor , find a low mileage Japanese imported series 3 , If you want tired old unreliable gadgets with a car with the looks of an old lady with too much make up, buy a 40 .
More like it. Haven't watched the Ferrari video as there are channels better suited to such exotica which I have no interest in, this channel excels at the banger end of the spectrum, hence the view counts for such cars are better
Later versions from around 2000 had rear park sensors
Mine's a 1995 and has factory rear radar sensors
@@christianpentecost3047 What country are you in ?
@@christianpentecost3047 That's not true.
@@AndyK.1 Jaguar introduced Reverse Park Control in 1999, so don't listen to him.
Although this is true somewhat, it doesn't apply to Christian's X300. Jaguar knew about this technology in 1981 for XJ40 and must have caved in under Ford ownership.
@@nwezetx1 New Zealand, the car was sold new in Singapore. 1995.
Beautiful car good video 🚗🚙🚘👍👍👍👍👍👍⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a car
Ticks all the boxes for a luxury car wood leather and a full size matching spare wheel extra luxury
Did you just want to catch the ferry and keep going to Germany or Italy ??
Like our summer holidays! Wouldnt have minded going a bit further
The front end looks like it has been repainted, Silver is a ball ache to match!
That's not a leaper on the steering wheel it's a growler
Strange that 3.2L is made in V8 format, instead of the V6.
I've got to ask: did driving that beautiful Jaguar make your mercedes feel rather depressing; and crushingly soulless?
That daft bonnet ornament needs to go.
Definitely not trade plates on the dash, nothing to see here.
XJR 370Bhp
A classy car for sure but the prancing Jaguar on the front of the bonnet is a terrible touch.
Its like buying a new Ferrari and hanging a pair of furry dice off the rear view mirror. Very bad taste. But I enjoyed the review thanks
👌👌
What you going to do now there's no pop master?
Find Ken on his new station!
@@furiousdriving I shall give it a bash too, but I guess in the next couple of weeks till we can give the alternative a try too
I was surprised to discover the BBC don't own the ' rights' to pop master, and allowed it to move on with Ken.
This is a certified gamer moment
It is Jaguar, not Jag
Yipee I'm 174th