1997 Jaguar Xklsx (xk8 With 350 Gm Ls1 Conversion!) on 2040-cars

This ‘XK8LSx’ is originally a California Car and is free of rust. With over 130,000 on the 97-2003 Jaguar motor, it seemed very prudent to swap this tired motor and transmission for a late model General Motors “LS1” power-train from a 2002 Pontiac Firebird. The motor and transmission were both completely rebuilt at a cost of over $4500 and have covered less than 4000 miles since the exchange.

The marriage of Jaguar design, luxury and suspension with the power and reliability of the LS1 has produced a unique, powerful car. You can read more about Jaguar engine upgrades at: http://www.jaguarspecialties.com/XK8-LSx.asp

THE GOOD-

The lowering and rear light/front grill updates make this Jaguar really stand out.

Additional upgrades this Jaguar has had include:

Staggered 18” Alloy wheels

Professionally lowered suspension with new shock absorbers

Gorgeous rear light modules blended into the Jaguar body

Stainless steel rear Mina exhaust

Aluminum grill reminiscent of the Aston Martin sister car

This car comes with 2 Master Keys and 2 remotes. The AC is freezing cold and the heating/cooling system upgraded to incorporate the GM water pump is extremely efficient. The Jaguar radio works although the current antenna is not connected. The power options work: seats, windows, mirrors, convertible top. The cruise control no longer works.

THE BAD-

There are a few door dings which can all be removed by Dentless Repair. There are a few minor scratches and stone chips as one could expect. There is a chip in the windscreen just to the right of the driver’s main vision area. The clear coat has dried on the brake light on top of the trunk lid (easy repair).

Inside the driver’s seat shows wear on the seam and the plastic cover is cracked. The interior rear-view mirror has lost its dimming capability and appears two tone at all times, but is functional.

THE UGLY-

Since the conversion the following warning lights appear in the Message Center: ABS (we suspect a broken wire since a recent wheel alignment), Stability Control Fail, Battery not charging.

Also, the rev counter and temperature gauge stick sometimes, although I understand a software download can rectify this. If not used regularly, the battery begins to discharge. I keep it on a trickle charger as I drive it infrequently.

The interior of this XK8 is in overall good shape. The leather looks good overall, but does show some wear and blemishes here and there.  The carpets are in good shape. The headliner has been cleaned and has a good overall look to it, but has a patina of age. It doesn't appear to have been smoked in as there is no odor. It has the typical light scuffs that you'd expect on a used vehicle, but it still has an overall good look to it, and it certainly looks to have been taken care of. Please take the time to look through the pictures and contact me with any questions or for additional pictures of specific items. 

After several years of fun it is time to turn this car over to another enthusiast, perhaps it will be you.

This vehicle is being sold as is, where is with no warranty, expressed written or implied. Any descriptions or representations are for identification purposes only and are not to be construed as a warranty of any type. It is the responsibility of the buyer to have thoroughly inspected the vehicle and to have satisfied himself or herself as to the condition and value and to bid based upon that judgment solely.

Although mentioned above, this car was converted prior to the release of the Jaguar Specialties kit.

The few issues noted do not reflect the excellence of that kit. The link is provided for reference only.