Jaguar XK8 Coupe

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Designed as a replacement for the late, lamented XJS, the new Jaguar XK8 was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 1996.

Sleek, lithe and muscular in the finest Jaguar tradition, it was largely designed by Geoff Lawson, who had also penned the stunning XJ220 supercar. As Jaguar was under Ford ownership at the time, it shared its platform with the fabulous (and far more expensive) Aston Martin DB7 to which it bore more than a passing resemblance. The first Jaguar ever with an eight-cylinder engine, it's 4-litre V8 produced 290bhp and could waft the car to an electronically limited 155mph top speed.

First registered in May 1997, this particular car has had just four owners from new and has been in the current keeper’s hands since 2010. With some 82,500 miles on the clock it comes with a very good service history comprising 12 stamps up to 76,000 miles in June 2012 plus many supporting invoices and old MOTs.

Said to be in very clean condition throughout with good alloy wheels, attractive metallic red paintwork and an eye-catching number plate, it has recently been treated to an upgraded water pump thermostat and expansion tank. MOTd until June 2015 it is said to drive well. Fast and refined, these XK8 Jaguars are lovely cars to travel in and this well-maintained example looks great value at the modest guide price suggested.