JAGUAR INTRODUCES FIRST NEW SPORTS CAR IN 21 YEARS
For 1997, Jaguar introduces its first new sports car in 21 years, the XK8. With low, sleek and curving bodies, the XK8 coupe and convertible evoke Jaguar’s styling heritage, while their thoroughly modern mechanical highlights include an all-new, Jaguar-designed, 290-horsepower V8 engine and an advanced five-speed automatic transmission.
Reinforcing Jaguar’s reputation for advanced technology are standard features such as automatic stability control for traction on slippery roads and an advanced multiplex electrical system to allow sophisticated electronic controls. In addition, the convertible features a one-button, auto-latching top mechanism that raises and lowers the top while the XK8 travels at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour.
Early reaction to the XK8's styling from the press and public strongly confirmed the design team's dramatic departure from the car’s predecessor, the XJS. The XJS retires at the close of the 1996 model year, having earned the distinction of being Jaguar's best-selling sports car ever (115,413 built) and its longest-running (21 years in production).
"The XK8 sets an assertive new design course for Jaguar, and at the same time honors our rich styling legacy," said Michael H. Dale, president of Jaguar Cars North America.
"Its classic Jaguar stance and proportions and details such as the oval grille opening pay homage to legendary sports cars of our past, yet there is no question that this a trend-setting design."
Throughout the XK8 interior, traditional Jaguar elegance is reflected in the expansive use of fine wood veneers and premium Connolly leather. Round analog gauges and Jaguar's J-gate transmission shifter further link the XK8 to its heritage.
Performance Complemented by World-Class Refinement
Jaguar has a long tradition of introducing its new engine designs first in its sports cars, and so it is with the XK8. The new car is powered by the first V8 engine ever designed by Jaguar. Called the AJ-V8, it is manufactured in a new, dedicated facility in the United Kingdom.
Engineered to provide refined power, the advanced 4.0-liter, 32-valve engine features a robust aluminum cylinder block with structural bedplate for durability and smoothness, Nikasil bore surfaces for better weight and friction than iron linings would provide, variable cam phasing for responsiveness across a wide range of speeds and an electronic, "drive-by-wire" throttle for smooth and accurate power delivery.
Jaguar claims that at the time of the XK8 launch, this engine assumes class leadership in weight, stiffness, friction, specific power output (horsepower for displacement) and package efficiency (power output for its external dimensions). The AJ-V8 requires no maintenance other than oil and filter changes for 100,000 miles.
The engine’s patented cooling system brings the engine to operating temperature very quickly, assuring a comfortable cabin temperature, as well as contributing to low emissions and contributing to fuel-economy numbers that allow the XK8 to be sold without a gas-guzzler tax.
The XK8 returns Jaguar to its sports-car roots with a sophisticated five-speed automatic transmission, new designs for both front and rear suspension systems, and world-class variable-assist/variable-ratio power steering. Development efforts centered on providing taut response and precise handling without any sacrifice of ride comfort or refinement.
Safety a Top Priority
Extensive safety considerations are engineered into the XK8. Airbags are provided for the driver and front passenger, along with pyrotechnic seat belt pretensioners to take up seat-belt slack during impact.
Strategic use of special high-strength steel members throughout the car assures a rigid body, while crumple zones at the front and rear absorb forces in a crash. Convertibles are equipped with cross-bracing under the engine bay, added stiffening members in the door sills and a reinforced windshield frame.
Helping the driver to avoid collisions are considerable active safety provisions, including powerful four-wheel disc brakes with an advanced anti-lock system, standard automatic stability control (and optional traction control) to add control on slippery surfaces, an independent suspension and precision rack and pinion steering.
XK8 Priced Aggressively
"Outstanding value has been a Jaguar tradition, and the XK8 strengthens that position," said Dale. "With its remarkable performance, a full complement of amenities and a host of advanced features that enhance the driving experience, the XK8's price compares very favorably to the prestige-class competition."
The XK8 coupe debuts at a suggested retail price of $64,900 ($89,900 in Canada), and the convertible at $69,900 ($97,900 Canadian).
Jaguar projects worldwide sales of the XK8 will total 12,000 in its first full year on the market, including 6,700 for the United States and 315 for Canada in calendar 1997. The convertible is expected to account for 80 percent of the sales in both countries.