2004 Jaguar XK8 Convertible

This great looking XK8 Convertible hails from 2004, a key milestone year in XK8 production. A major, and final, aesthetic update was introduced for the 2004 model year to build on the significant mechanical upgrade of 2003. This is considered as something of a sweet spot in the evolution of the XK8 with a number of significant improvements to the earlier cars all present here. This includes the larger 4.2L displacement and the later six-speed ZF automatic gearbox. These late models also benefit from the more durable metal timing chain tensioners which replaced the earlier plastic items with the arrival of the 4.2 litre AJ-V8.

This XK8 appears to have been sympathetically used by several owners. The XK8 was acquired by current owner, Robert, in September 2020 when he became the Jaguar’s sixth keeper to date. At that point the XK8 had covered around 78,000 miles with Robert having added approximately 5,000 miles to that total in the subsequent five years. Robert has diligently kept across the Jaguar’s maintenance with much work undertaken to deliver an example that is “in excellent condition with everything working as it should.”
 

The XK8’s Geoff Lawson design was a knowing but subtle nod to the revered E Type with its long curvy bonnet and wide elliptical grill especially looking pleasingly familiar. This example presents in the popular and convertible appropriate Zircon Blue (JHV) livery and every curvaceous panel seems to exude a deep and lustrous shine. This bright and breezy livery is complemented by a deep blue fabric hood with the signature glass, heated rear window. Robert reports that the hood hydraulics have been fully recommissioned in July 2025 to ensure its effective operation. 

An obvious highlight is the set of 20-inch, split rim, five spoke BBS “Detroit” alloy wheels as featured on the earlier Silverstone special edition model. These wheels fill the wheel arches amply and appear to be in a fine overall condition with just a few minor chips and scuffs noted.

A staggered but matching set of Dunlop Sport Maxx RTE tyres are fitted. These are in a 255/35 configuration at the front and 285/30 at the rear.
 

Back in 1996 the interior of the XK8 was the subject of much positive comment by owners and pundits alike. It was a marked improvement in terms of luxury and quality over the XJS and proved to be a very nice place to spend time. The combination of supple leathers and deeply polished walnut veneers reinforced the car’s various nods towards various Jaguars of yore.

This example is certainly no exception, being impeccably finished in ruched soft grain leather in a Cashmere hue (SDZ). The high-backed front seats are both capacious and supportive and present in good condition with just the right level of use related patina noted to the driver’s seat. The quality is evident with large, box pleated central sections being delineated with twin needle stitching. The front seats are heated and electrically adjustable. The token rear seats, and passenger seat all appear to be in an excellent, hardly used condition.

The mushroom hued carpets are deep pile and appear to be in excellent overall condition. The dash is fronted with a vibrant burr walnut veneer, accents of which extend to the door cards and centre console. The hood is lined in Cashmere coloured fabric and appears to be free from rips or stains. A cashmere coloured tonneau cover is also included to protect and tidy the hood mechanism once it is lowered.

This is a well-appointed car too with climate control, multi-function steering wheel, electrically adjustable steering column amongst many other refinements. A retro fitted Sony CD head unit is noted but the original unit is also included with the car. It is easy to see why this interior was so well received. It is sumptuous and modern looking in equal measure. It provides the perfect environment from which to enjoy the innate charms of this sporting British GT car. The well sized boot underscores those GT car credentials and is finished in its original deep pile grey carpet. A space saver spare wheel and original tools are stowed beneath the boot floor. The original CD changer and warning triangle are also housed here.
 

Whilst the AJ-V8 engine was new at the launch of the XK8, it has gone on to prove a robust and reliable unit capable of significant mileages when regularly maintained. It was impressively powerful too, pushing out nearly 300 bhp with torque to match. This is paired with the well respected six speed ZF automatic gearbox feeding power to the rear wheels. It’s a combination optimised for accomplished and refined touring but offering an impressive and dynamic turn of speed once called upon.

The engine bay is clean and well presented with the 4.2-litre AJ-V8 almost completely obscured by plastic covers and fairings. The inner panels are clean and free from corrosion, and a fine degree of originality is on display. Soon after Robert acquired the XK8 he commissioned RDS Roadsport to fully clean, rust treat and underseal the Jaguar to optimise both condition and longevity. As a result the underside of the XK8 looks very well presented and truly belies the car’s age and mileage.
 

This XK8 comes with a good depth of provenance providing paperwork as you will see from our photographic package. Key documents include the current V5 Registration Document in the name of the owner and the current MoT in hard copy. The latter is an advisory free test and is valid until July 2026.

Other highlights include the original book pack in its Jaguar embossed leather folder and two original Jaguar keys. A good number of instructive and reassuring invoices for maintenance and repair work undertaken throughout the car’s life are also present. Key amongst these is the one from July 2025 covering the recommissioning of the hood mechanism and one from 2021 documenting the £600 spent on underside preventative maintenance.
 

This is a British GT car to truly be proud of. Hastily bought to market from a background of uncertainty and upheaval, utilising a new and unproven V8 and featuring a market defying old school approach it could have been a disaster. Instead, it was gem. A great looking GT car with power, finesse, and luxury to spare. A car that has stood the test of time very well and is now starting to both appreciate and receive the appreciation it richly deserves.

This example looks great with its lustrous Zircon Blue livery and big 20-inch split rim BBS wheels making it a truly head-turning example. The interior remains fresh looking and well presented in the best colour making it a great place to enjoy the deep growl of the big V8 from. The key XK8 convertible Achillies’ heels – the hood operation and underside corrosion – have been professionally dealt with offering the next owner a high degree of reassurance. If an XK8 Convertible is a car you always promised yourself, as so many have, this 2004 model incorporating all the learnings from earlier iterations could be the perfect choice. They remain, for now at least, a great deal of car at a surprisingly attainable price point.

We are happy to offer this car for auction with an estimate in the range of £7,000 - £9,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Clapham, London. To arrange an appointment to inspect this vehicle, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.