Jaguar X308/350

[MichaelBailey]

After deciding that I desperately want a big jag I would like to know which would be the better option on the X308 4.0 Or the 3.0 V6 X350. Looking at it they both have their pros and cons of course and I feel myself swaying to the X308 for the V8 and the classic looks. I'd like to hear of anyone's past experiences on them and also I have a budget of 4000 on them and I understand I would have to get a slightly high miler on the X350 so I wasn't sure what would be the more reliable of the two. Any advice would be much appreciated thanks!

[andymadmak]

Not sure why you are thinking of the V6 X350. The 4.2 V8 is the one to go for...and easily more economical than the X308 V8. The 308 feels special, but rather old compared to the 350. The 350 is a very modern car in comparison and has a better reputation for reliability. Its a matter of personal taste... Try both and pick the one that floats your boat. Me? I went the 350 route for several years and loved it. Took mine to 114k miles too. I have moved on now, but would still recommend the 350

[P700DEE]

Get the V8 in the X350, in budget for early cars and you get a choice of a 3.5 and a 4.2. Much better fuel figures

[LordFlathead]

Or get the twin turbo diesel which offers similar performance and 35 mpg and is quieter

[MichaelBailey]

Thanks for the advice guys, I'll keep looking for the right motor!

[Nick M]

I know you've probably done your research, but key things to check out (on a ramp if at all possible):

- state of rear wishbone bushes, tie rods, ARB drop links - look for split gaiters and signs of things not having been touched, as a rear-end rebush can be tedious

- same with the front end - listen out for knocks or clonks which come up through the steering wheel

- weeping diff on the near side - early cars may well exhibit this - mine does - not really fixable without a lot of expense (basically updating to a newer diff, but it's not quite that simple)

- ride height - make sure the stance looks correct, and isn't nose / tail down

- check the gearbox changes smoothly - if it's a high-miler and the gearbox oil has been changed then a) that's a pleasant surprise, but b) it hints at an owner who had half a clue how to look after the car

- check if recalls have been done - there's a particular one for corroding break pipes which is rather important - if it hasn't been done then it should be free at a Jag dealer

- tyres - check for even wear, because uneven wear might suggest worn suspension (or just the need for an alignment check).


I bought a low mileage car but have still had to do a few of the jobs above, which is fine as I was expecting it with an 11 year old car. But they're lovely to drive and a very pleasant place to be.