XK8 as a daily driver for £5000. Mental?

[silverback mike]

Just wondering really....I've owned quite a few cars and seeing as my daily is now a 1.0 micra due to it being my son's training car, which I'm giving him when he passes his test means that I can once again get my backside in something daft. The micra has been absolutely phenomenal. Pennies to run, whizzes around town and I've managed 90 out of the poor thing.

However, I like larger engines and now deserve something daily with a bit of poke. I'm also considering a C32 AMG Estate. I know they are poles apart but have always really like the XK8

Am I mental to consider it? I know it's a 4.0 V8 so will love the petrol however just HOW bad are they for mixed driving? I love sofa esque auto's and I've earned it after shaking the teeth out of my head for six months, probably a year by the time mini silverback has it from me.

Or do I just do the sensible thing and buy a Mercedes Diesel estate?

[silverback mike]

Thanks folks, yes, I tend to agree and prefer larger V8's. So, looking like a viable option. Didn't think about the 6 series

[silverback mike]

Must admit I'm not a fan of the bmw styling and have always really liked the xk8. Not too sure about the s type but the 4.2 sounds a good deal!!

[silverback mike]

[silverback mike]

I'm with you on that one...I've had my fair share of sensible, definitely liking the idea of the XK8. Just need my lad to pass his driving test and I'll have a poke around..

[silverback mike]

Jayyylo said:

Wow I'm clearly outnumbered on this thread. I admit the 6 series was marmite when it came out but I think they've aged really well and I've only ever had positive comments, but maybe people are just being polite. To me the 04 XK8 looks dated since the newer shape xkr came out. I was also put off but the vast amount of wood accross the dash. Another poster summed it up as "someone put a rev counter into a drinks cabinet".

I know it's totally subjective but I thought someone might agree haha

I was looking at a 6 series earlier on today parked in the car park...I really think they are 'growers' Initially I thought they were incredibly ugly, the rear lip especially. However...upon closer inspection they seem to work. They certainly aren't as pretty as the Jaguar but certainly have presence and as all bangle creations, they seem to have aged well. (In my opinion)
Certainly not out of the equation that's for sure.

[silverback mike]

Had a drive in an xk8 today. Felt absolutely right. So I think decision made. My lad passed his theory test today. So potentially when his practical is sorted he's in the micra and I'm off xk8 hunting thank you for all of the inputs chaps. Will keep you posted....

It has however taken lots of very ambitious maths to convince the Mrs I 'need' a 4.0 jaguar especially as I have a 4.0 TVR in the garage

[silverback mike]

Thanks for the valuable info chaps! All stored ready for when I dive in!!

[silverback mike]

They did indeed. Good call. I will have a look! If I recall the jaguar was the preferred car...

[silverback mike]

Not yet Andy will keep you posted.

[silverback mike]

That's a nice one Andy, May have to stall a little on the XK...Unexpected bills on other vehicles have raised their head coupled with Range Rover suspension woes necessitating another 4x4 first...