1996–2002 Jaguar XK XK8 Coupé Specs & Performance

The XK8 Coupé marked Jaguar’s return to the classic luxury GT formula with a cleaner, more modern interpretation of the marque’s sporting heritage. Its rounded bodywork moved away from the sharper lines of the E-Type era, yet the long bonnet and low roof kept the car unmistakably Jaguar. Inside, the 2+2 layout made it more versatile than a strict two-seat sports car, while the new V8 provided smooth, effortless power suited to both relaxed cruising and faster open-road driving.

Introduced in 1996, the XK8 Coupé uses a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 producing 290 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels, with 0–60 mph taking 6.5 seconds and top speed reaching 156 mph. Its front-engine layout and double-wishbone suspension give the grand tourer a balanced foundation for long-distance performance.