1997 Jaguar XK8

Jaguars first V8 engine went under the hood, a 4.0-liter aluminum unit with twin overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Also new was the 5-speed automatic transmission, from the German ZF company. In its novel console-mounted J-gate, a 2-plane shift quadrant permitted manual gear selection when the lever was moved to the left-side slot. Dual front airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes were standard, along with speed-sensitive power steering. The 17-inch wheels held Z-rated tires.The convertible has a fully lined power soft top with glass window and electric defroster. Both models had Automatic Stability Control, which throttled back engine power to maintain traction during low-grip conditions. Full traction control, which also applied brakes as needed, was part of an optional All-Weather Package that included heated seats and headlamp washers. The only other options were a trunk-mounted 6-disc CD player, premium 240-watt Harman-Kardon audio system, custom paint, and chrome wheels. Rivals included Minimize