Jaguar XJ8 3.2

One of the greatest saloon cars of all time, the Jaguar XJ range was launched way back in 1968 but, so beautifully proportioned was the original design, that it was still recognisably the same car over three decades later. After some issues over build quality in the late '70s and over styling in the late '80s, the XJ once again regained its old magic in 1995 with the launch of the X300. Under the masterful eye of chief stylist Geoff Lawson (who also penned the dramatic XJ220 and the retro-cool S-Type), the slabby styling of the XJ40 was binned in favour of a return to the muscular curves and quad headlamps that had traditionally defined the big cat's appeal.

In 1997 things got better still with the launch of the X308 which had a revised interior, minor external styling tweaks and new adaptive suspension. But the big news was under the bonnet which now housed a magnificent V8 in either 3.2 or 4-litre capacity. With 240bhp and 290bhp respectively, these units were paragons of refinement and reliability and the X308 became the best-selling luxury car in the UK.

First registered in November 1998, this particular car has covered 78,000 miles from new but had a new engine fitted under warranty by Minster Jaguar, York, at 51,626 miles. With a full service history up to 72,000 miles, it is said to be in “immaculate” condition inside and out with a beautiful cream leather interior and unmarked Champagne Gold coachwork. Said to drive perfectly with everything working as it should including the air conditioning, it is taxed until the end of August and MOTd until March next year.

If you have never experienced one of these magnificent machines you really don’t know what you are missing – perfectly proportioned and with superb road manners, everything about them is designed to make you feel good about driving and even, dare one say it, proud to be British.