I have an early XK8 (12/9/96) I just bought, very well cared for, pulled the front of the engine to do the timing chain tensioners and guides. They were actually ALMOST pristine but figured I would get the replacement of them out of the way. In working with parts supplier I received parts that didn't fit. They asked for the engine number and I have odd results. After looking here on the forums on where to find them it appears my engine number is all 2's this seems inconceivable, any thoughts? I can't seem to get the right parts until I get them an engine number

 

The top number in your second picture looks like the engine number. It is actually a date/time stamp marking when this engine reached whatever check point in the assembly line. It is hard to be sure, but it looks consistent with the date you listed. The other information, AFAIK, has to do with crankshaft bearings.

 

Ok, thanks, I misread which one is the engine number, and no surprise they agree I got the date from that number