I'm looking into getting a newer jag and the x358 from 08-09' looks like the best bet.

I like the facelifted front fender with the jaguar symbol over the grill so the x358 is a must.

My last hat was an XJ40 1988, so this time around I'd like something a bit newer. My question is which model should I get? I'd like to get the all options one, and part of me that going for the super charged one might be the way to go but as is 300hp is plenty.

I'm between the xj8, vanden plas, the XJR, and the supercharged v8.
Can any one tell me the differences in models and which would be best in managing maintanence cost/reliability?

I checked with my insurance and apparently there's not a huge difference in rates for the base model and the supercharged one.

 

Get the S/C version if you don't mind the premium to purchase over a XJ8. Regards to running costs, the Supercharger has a simple belt changes and is recommended to change the S/C oil changed at some point too. The valley pipe is a job made harder by having a supercharger on top, plenty on the forums about that. MPG is not really different on a steady run.

I chose the Super V8 over the XJR, because the running gear is the same, but with a much better interior and options fitted.

 

If you don't need the extra power of the S/C, the normal V8 is perfectly adequate, (it would be for me, anyway !).

The valley pipe lies below the supercharger and nestles in the V of the engine, and eventually needs replacing due to it leaking. This is not a well-positioned pipe lying where it does with the heat of the engine cooking it. The pipe is not expensive, but the labour involved in removing and replacing the supercharger to get to it is what makes it an expensive job. This month's Jaguar Enthusiast Club magazine has an article on this subject. The owner tried to do it himself, but eventually gave up and handed it over to a specialist. If leaks from this pipe are ignored, eventually it will let go and the coolant is all pumped out very quickly. If not immediately noticed, it can be end-of-engine time. A picture of a wrecked engine is shown in the article caused by ignoring the leak.

 

Many were not aware of the Concept Eight, which was unveiled back when the X350 was initially introduced... Here you go...

2004 Jaguar Concept Eight

 

The XJ Portfolio is by far the nicest of them all. Below is one for sale.

http://atcm.co/S2PVDP/1A5074AE