The owner of Country Classic Cars reluctantly presents his very rare Arden Jaguar XK8 for sale. It was his daily driver a decade ago but has spent the last few years in storage awaiting workshop time to benefit from a particle restoration. The endless inventory of customer job cards has resulted in the realisation that our XKR is unlikely to see any ramp time in the foreseeable future, consequently it is available for a knowledgeable enthusiast to take this unique project to a worthy conclusion.

Jaguar’s XK8, will we look back and consider it the modern E-type? First seen in convertible form (ahead of the Coupe) at the New York Motor Show in 1996, the same show that the E-type debuted 35 years before. Its 4.0 litre V8 offered an impressive 290bhp and 60mph in 7 seconds, a grand tourer that would enjoy a decade in production. Our XK8 left the dealership January 1998 and the first owner took the car to Arden in Germany for many design upgrades including interior trim, additional gauges, cobalt blue interior lighting, mesh grille, Afterburn tail lamp conversion and alloy wheels etc. Who are Arden? The internet suggests ‘Arden cars are a fascinating blend of British elegance and German engineering. Since 1972, Arden has been refining premium British brands, starting with Jaguar. The founder, Jochen Arden, was the first German car manufacturer to venture into enhancing Jaguar vehicles. These cars are meticulously crafted in Germany, combining timeless design with cutting-edge technology.’ To compliment the visual improvements, a few years later some time was spent at Paramount Performance, the name synonymous with the Jaguar Car marque and high-performance engineering tuning. Paramount Performance was probably the first tuning company to specialise in the modern range of Jaguars and have a real heritage and history of working with them. Their engineers carried out brake and engine upgrades that means this example has been tested to 370bhp (identical to the XKR) with over a second improvement on the 0-60 and their full stainless sports exhaust offers an audio that negates the need for in-car entertainment.

At Country Classic Cars we find it’s best to present a detailed write up of any classic we are requested to sell, presenting both the good and bad aspects which can only be achieved after a full inspection. This helps to avoid ‘buyer’s remorse’ especially for those purchasing from abroad or interested parties travelling distances to view. We would list this sale under the phrase ‘project’ although the repairs required are not to restoration levels there is some bodywork involved. The windscreen is cracked in the o/s right lower corner also both rear quarter panels have suffered from the familiar corrosion issue, so common to this model lower repair panels are readily available as an aftermarket purchase. A small scratch on the boot lid with lacquer peel on the boot lid trim insert above the number plate the same issue has affected the n/s front wing whilst the paint generally will benefit from areas of fresh paint or a professional polish. We would suggest both front seats received attention to the leather, retrimming maybe required as the drivers seat cover has become brittle, the rest should improve with some connollising and conditioning. The carpets are in great condition, as is the veneer and all the dials and gauges operate as they should, including the additional three added by Arden, volts, clock and oil pressure which confirms a healthy engine. Under the bonnet there is no evidence of any fluid leaks from the mighty V8 and the authentication plaques for both Arden and Paramount have been located next to the n/s suspension turret.

A comprehensive/complete (dealer stamped) service history file is included with invoices and MOT certificates dating back to 2006, these confirm this XK8 has covered less than 9k miles over the past decade and it currently stands at 139011.  Whilst there is plenty of paperwork, to enjoy the full story contact the owner Paul Gravely at Country Classic Cars.

For additional information please message with your email address for detailed images (wheels etc) and a short walk-round video; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.