Positioning:
Luxury Grand Tourer
Competitors:
Porsche 911, BMW 8 Series, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Design Philosophy:
Classic Jaguar styling with modern performance
Engine Offering:
Initially the 4.0L V8, later upgraded to 4.2L V8
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and style
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Body:
Body & Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC
Electrical:
Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Codes
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Disassembly & Assembly, Component Rebuilds
Adjustments:
Alignment, Brake Adjustments, Idle Speed Adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of mechanical and electrical issues
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component overhauls
Pictorials:
Detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos
Special Tools:
Reference to specific Jaguar service tool numbers and their usage
Specifications:
Tightening torques, wear limits, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data
Displacement:
3996 cc (4.0 Liters) for early models, 4196 cc (4.2 Liters) for later models
Aspirated Type:
Naturally Aspirated (later 'R' models featured supercharging)
Horsepower 4.0L:
290 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 4.2L:
301 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4.2L:
315 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP24)
Type:
N/A for XK8, but manual transmission was available on certain XK variants (e.g., XKRS)
Shifting Modes:
Adaptive shift control, 'Sport' mode
Transmission Fluid Type:
Likely ZF LifeguardFluid (or equivalent such as Esso LT 71141)
Length:
Approximately 4935 mm (194.3 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1772 mm (69.8 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1300 mm (51.2 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2590 mm (102.0 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1770-1820 kg (3800-4000 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Refer to specific vehicle VIN plate
Trunk Volume Coupe:
Approximately 0.31 m³ (11.0 cu ft)
Trunk Volume Convertible:
Slightly less than coupe due to convertible top mechanism
Crash Test Results:
Refer to NHTSA/Euro NCAP for specific year ratings; generally considered safe for its era.
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on later models or as part of 'R' performance variants
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger, Side airbags
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars for convertible models
Audio System:
Premium Alpine or Harman Kardon audio systems available, often with CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Optional hands-free phone system with Bluetooth or older cellular interfaces.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for precise interval).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual; often includes spark plug replacement, coolant flush, and transmission fluid service around 60,000 - 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Fully Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.3 liters (7.7 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
Jaguar specified OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Ford Super Premium Engine Coolant VC-10-A2)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Timing Chain Tensioners:
Early AJ-V8 engines (pre-2002) are known for plastic timing chain tensioners that can degrade and fail, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Spark Plugs:
Specific spark plug types are required; improper installation or incorrect plugs can lead to issues. Manual provides correct part numbers and procedures.
Water Pump:
Early models could experience water pump seal failures. Manual covers replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to degraded handling and noise. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Heritage Association:
Successor to the E-Type in spirit, carrying on Jaguar's legacy of performance and style.
Introduction Year:
1996 (for the 1997 model year)
Updates Covered By Manual:
Covers the initial 4.0L V8 and the transition to the later 4.2L V8 and associated improvements.
Performance Variant:
XK8 'R' models introduced with supercharged engines
Production Period:
1996-2006
Manufacturing Plant:
Coventry, England
Design Awards:
Praised for its classic styling, often compared favorably to iconic sports cars.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive for performance and luxury, with common critiques focusing on early V8 timing chain tensioner reliability.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with US EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.
