Jaguar Xk8 & Xkr: the Essential Buyer's Guide
Found a better price? Request a price match
Jaguar Xk8 & Xkr: the Essential Buyer's Guide
Latest News
Marnie shares her tips for Spring!
Marnie is our garden expert and Lizzy kills every plant she brings home. We're getting...
The Cultural Renaissance of Reading
There's something rather wonderful happening in the world of books at the moment. Reading is...
A Little Bit Spooky: Board Games for Halloween
Halloween is the perfect excuse for a spooky board game night! From adorable ghost cats...
100 Years of Winnie the Pooh
100 years ago the Hundred Acre Wood and a cast of beloved friends was published...
The Book Briefing - 14/10/2026
It's time for another edition of 'The Book Briefing'! Sacha's back with all the latest...
See moreHaving this guide in your pocket is like having a Jaguar marque expert by your side. Drawing on years of hands-on experience with the XK8 and XKR, it shows you how to spot problem cars quickly, assess good examples with confidence, and buy the right car at the right price.
The Jaguar XK8 and XKR of 1996-2005 combine classic Jaguar elegance with modern V8 performance and long-distance comfort. Available as both coupe and convertible, they offer refined grand touring ability, distinctive styling, and strong performance, making them increasingly appealing modern classics. If you're thinking of buying one, the Essential Buyer's Guide will help you make the right choice.
With a wide range of engines, specifications, and special editions available, the XK8 and XKR offer plenty of choice for buyers. Which version best suits your budget and expectations? Are there particular engines or production years to approach with caution, and what should you check carefully before purchase? This Essential Buyer's Guide distils the experience of marque specialists and owners, helping you find a sound example that is enjoyable to own and rewarding to drive.
Packed with colour photographs highlighting common problem areas, the book saves hours of research by bringing together clear, practical advice in one handy reference. Jaguar expert Nigel Thorley covers every variant from the early 4.0-litre models - including those with Nikasil engines - through to the later, more advanced 4.2-litre cars, with insights into specifications, reliability, running costs, and worthwhile upgrades. Whether you're seeking a refined daily driver or a rising modern classic, this guide will point you in the right direction.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781836441717
Publisher: David & Charles
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 17 November 2026
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Veloce
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 139.0mm
Height: 195.0mm
Weight: 0g
Pages: 88
About the Author
Nigel Thorley is a highly respected motoring historian and one of the leading authorities on the Jaguar marque. Immersed in Jaguar ownership from an early age, he bought his first Jaguar at 17 and has since owned more than 70 examples, including 16 Mk IIs. Widely recognised for his depth of knowledge, Nigel has written over twenty books on Jaguar, contributed to television and radio programmes, and delivers talks and seminars on the cars and the company. He is a founder member and Director of the Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club and serves as Editor of the club's flagship Jaguar Enthusiasts magazine.
Also by Nigel Thorley
View allMore from Travel & Adventure
View allWhy buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Bookstore
We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.
Travel & Adventure lists from the team
Explore our curated lists from our heroes to find your next read!



