Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking refined comfort, potent V8 performance, and classic British luxury styling.
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Audi A8.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes timeless elegance, luxurious appointments, and a smooth, powerful driving experience.
Powertrain Highlight:
Available V8 engines known for their smooth power delivery and sophisticated character.
Interior Appointments:
Typically features premium leather upholstery, wood veneer trim, and a focus on occupant comfort.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine operation, lubrication, cooling, and emissions control systems.
Transmission Operation:
Information on automatic transmission operation, gear selection, and fluid level checks.
Brakes And Traction Control:
Explanation of braking system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and traction control features.
Electrical Systems:
Overview of the vehicle's electrical systems, including lighting, dashboard indicators, and fuse box locations.
Climate Control HVAC:
Instructions for operating the automatic climate control system and air conditioning.
Infotainment Audio:
Details on the audio system, radio operation, CD player, and speaker configuration.
Security And Locking:
Information on the central locking system, remote keyless entry, and vehicle security features.
Wheels And Tires:
Guidance on tire pressure monitoring, changing a flat tire, and wheel specifications.
Body And Interior:
Details on interior controls, seat adjustments, and exterior features.
Routine Checks:
Procedures for checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure, and lights.
Emergency Procedures:
Instructions for dealing with common emergencies such as a flat tire or jump-starting the vehicle.
Maintenance Scheduling:
Recommended maintenance intervals for various service items.
Driving Recommendations:
Tips for optimal driving, fuel efficiency, and proper vehicle operation.
Dashboard Indicators:
Explanation of all warning lights and indicator symbols on the dashboard.
Depth:
Owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting common issues. Does not contain detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typical of a workshop manual.
Engine Type:
V8, 32-valve, DOHC (AJ-V8)
Displacement Liters:
3.2 L or 4.0 L
Displacement Ci:
195 cu in (3.2L), 244 cu in (4.0L)
Horsepower 3.2L:
Approx. 240 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque 3.2L:
Approx. 284 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 290 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Engine Variant Supercharged:
XJR models featured a supercharged 4.0L V8 (approx. 370 hp).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP24)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this model year and generation.
Shift Modes:
Comfort and Sport modes (often adjustable via selector).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Jaguar recommends Jaguar JLM 20140 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5).
Length:
Approx. 197.1 inches (standard wheelbase), 201.7 inches (long wheelbase)
Width:
Approx. 71.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 54.0 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 118.1 inches (standard), 122.7 inches (long)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,000 lbs (depending on engine and options)
NHTSA Rating:
Not formally rated by NHTSA for this specific model year by modern standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cell construction for occupant protection.
Audio System:
Premium sound system, typically with CD player and cassette deck. Models may vary with manufacturer or aftermarket upgrades.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Bluetooth:
Not typically equipped with factory Bluetooth in 1999; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Voice Control:
Not available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific model variant).
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Typically every 50,000-60,000 miles for normal service, or as specified by Jaguar for severe conditions. ZF recommends fluid and filter changes.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles with appropriate Jaguar-approved coolant.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., long-life iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.2L:
Approx. 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
Approx. 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Jaguar specific coolant or equivalent (e.g., a silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Timing Chain Tensioners V8:
The early AJ-V8 engines, particularly the 4.0L, are known for potential timing chain tensioner failure which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. This should be a key inspection point and proactive replacement recommended by some specialists.
Headliner Sag:
Common issue across many vehicles of this era, the adhesive holding the headliner fabric can degrade, causing it to sag.
Transmission Performance:
While generally robust, the ZF transmission can experience issues if fluid maintenance is neglected. Check for smooth shifting.
ABS Module Failure:
Some models can experience ABS module issues, often indicated by ABS warning lights.
Coolant Leaks:
Check for leaks from plastic components, hoses, and the radiator.
Heritage Summary:
Jaguar Cars has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, performance-oriented vehicles with distinctive styling and craftsmanship.
Predecessor:
XJ (XJ40/X300)
Introduction Year:
1994 (for the X300 generation), with significant updates leading to the X308 for 1998.
Key Updates For 1999:
The 1999 model year saw minor refinements from the initial X308 launch, primarily focused on features and packaging.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Production Period:
The X308 generation was produced from 1997 to 2003.
General Reputation:
The Jaguar XJ series has consistently been recognized for its luxurious ride, elegant styling, and refined driving dynamics, often praised for its value proposition in the high-end luxury segment compared to some German rivals.
Ownership Experience:
Owners often commend the car's comfort, quiet cabin, and the powerful, smooth character of the V8 engine.
Manufacturing Standards:
Built to Jaguar's stringent quality and luxury standards of the era.
