The XK8 is a direct descendent of some of the finest sports cars ever made. Yet the body that delivers exciting, 290-horsepower performance is graced with a luxurious, exceptionally comfortable interior. Driving the XK8 convertible is a breathtaking experience -- with or without the top.

Responsive, precise and agile is the XK8 convertible 290-horsepower engine, which has been tested and proven in extreme environments worldwide from minus 40 degree temperatures near the Arctic Circle to the blistering heat of the Arizona desert, from high-performance test tracks to the real-world rigors of New York City streets. The XK8 sleek, aerodynamic design incorporates the convertible fully automatic hood, providing performance levels that are virtually indistinguishable from the Jaguar XK8 coupe. Wind noise is similarly unobtrusive, and temperature control is identical.

Smooth, seamless performance is a hallmark of the Jaguar XK8 convertible thanks to its ZF 5HP24 five-speed transmission. Tailored to interact flawlessly with the AJ-V8 engine, this electronically controlled five-speed ZF automatic transmission adapts to driving conditions through specific shift programs, including sport and normal modes, cruise control, traction, gradient, warmup and hot mode. With five forward gears instead of four, the transmission optimizes performance while delivering good fuel economy complementing the engine efficiencies andpower range. EPA estimated 17 city/24 highway.

Security and precision control areinherent in the Jaguar XK8 brake system, which features an electronicallycontrolled four-channel antilock braking system with yaw control.Vacuum power-assisted 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes resist brake fade, maintaining their effectiveness even after heavy, repeated use. Electronic brake force distribution divides braking effort evenly between the front and rear wheels, providing better grip and improved stability during braking. Wheel-speed sensors at each wheel provide input to an electronic control module, allowing it to determine when wheel lockup under braking is about to occur.

T he XK8 is equipped with five-spoke sport-style alloy wheels, eight inches wide and 17 inches in diameter. Both coupe and convertible are factory-equipped with Pirelli P Zero 245/50ZR 17 tires that carry a speed rating. The tread asymmetrical pattern is closely matched to the actual loads encountered in driving. Adding to the striking looks of the Jaguar XK8 convertible are center wheel caps displaying a silver Jaguar growler on a green background.

The AJ-V8 engine was developed by Jaguar during the mid-1990s. Seventeen engineering teams and the best of the world's suppliers were assembled in an all-new facility in Bridgend, South Wales, to help make the AJ-V8 a new benchmark in automotive history. They succeeded in maximizing power, economy and refinement while minimizing weight and emissions. An innovative high-flow induction system, an advanced electronic management system and a patented, award-winning, split-level cooling system are among the engine's ingenious features.

The AJ-V8 powers today's XJ seriessedans and XK sport cars. The XJR, XKR and Vanden Plas Supercharged feature a supercharged AJ-V8; a modified version of the engine is available for the S-TYPE sedan. In 1997 a supercharged version of the AJ-V8 engine was introduced in the XJR sedan. Featuring an air-to-liquid intercooler, the 370-horsepower engine takes the XJR from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The supercharged AJ-V8 also powers theXKR and the Vanden Plas Supercharged. The Jaguar S-TYPE sedan offers drivers a choice: the powerful AJ-V8 or the all-new 3.0-litre, 240-horsepower AJ-V6. The most powerful V6 in its class, the AJ-V6 offers 2-stage variable cam phasing for smooth low-end torque. The V6-powered S-TYPE accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.

In 1997 a supercharged version of he AJ-V8 engine was introduced in the XJR sedan. Featuring an air-to-liquid intercooler, the 370-horsepower engine takes the XJR from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The supercharged AJ-V8 also powers the XKR and the Vanden Plas Supercharged.

The Jaguar S-TYPE sedan offers drivers a choice: the powerful AJ-V8 or the all-new 3.0-litre, 240-horsepower AJ-V6. The most powerful V6 in its class, the AJ-V6 offers 2-stage variable cam phasing for smooth low-end torque. TheV6-powered S-TYPE accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.