Lot 18: Jaguar XKR Supercharged Coupe

Introduced in 1997 as the replacement for the XJS, the Jaguar XK8 shared a platform with the Aston Martin DB7 (both companies being part of Ford) which in itself was a highly modified version of the XJS platform.  Gone, however, were the traditional straight 6 and V12 Jaguar engines.  The new car was endowed with the superb new 4-litre all aluminium quad-cam V8 engine that was also to feature in the XJ saloon.  In normally aspirated form, the car was badged XK8 and available in both coupé and convertible formats, while a supercharged version, the XKR, developed 370bhp, a healthy 30% increase over the standard car, with improved torque and acceleration figures, all versions being electronically limited to a maximum of 155mph.Dating from 1999, this superb example of the XKR Coupé is finished in red with a cream leather interior.  Virtually unflawed, the car has obviously been well cared for and an extensive and comprehensive service history provided.  Additionally, when the owner enquired about replacing it with a new model and was advised of the likely wait, it was treated to a major overhaul, including the replacement of the timing chains, a replacement supercharger unit and a complete air-conditioning overhaul.  When viewed it was both extremely hard to fault and drove superbly, belying the mileage, currently standing at around 91,000 miles.