Highlights

Just 29,833 miles from new
Accompanied by a large collection of servicing invoices and MOT test certificates
Long-wheelbase model in white - an ideal wedding car
Offered in very smart condition, commensurate with ultra-low mileage
Offered with a long MOT
Private plate now removed and the car is on R973 FNG

The Appeal

Nobody is quite sure what to expect from Jaguar these days, what with the enigmatic recent rebrand. But there was a time when we all knew exactly what Jaguar was all about; namely luxury saloons aimed at those who value style, comfort and performance in equal measure.

The X308 series XJ is a prime example of everything a Jaguar should be: It was beautifully designed by the late great Geoff Lawson, quick thanks to the compact DOHC AJ-V8 engine, and it came equipped with a sumptuous cabin, brimming with soft leather and highly-figured woodwork.

This 1998 XJ Sovereign has covered a mere 29,833 miles; on average that’s just a little over 1,000 miles a year! As it’s the long-wheelbase model and finished in white over cream leather upholstery, it was ideal for wedding car duties and indeed this XJ has been used for that very purpose - The car is now back on its original plate R973FNG, but L77WED is available via separate negotiation.

It’s nigh-on impossible to find an X308 - or any car of this age for that matter - with so few miles under its belt. A mere glance at the extensive paperwork file confirms that this Jag has been well looked after over the years, as does the recently passed MOT, valid until 20th February 2026.

Whether you’re looking for a superlative cruiser, or are yourself in the wedding hire business, this XJ is surely an unrivalled example.

The History and Paperwork

UK market RHD example
Seven former registered keepers
29,833 warranted miles
MOT until 20th February 2026
Accompanied by a large collection of MOT certificates, including the current one
Mileage record check performed by the vendor; document included in the sale
Main dealer service records with Harwoods of Chichester, with several invoices and health check documents present

The Condition

Luxurious Sovereign model, comparable trim level to the XJR
Long-wheelbase variant, with ample legroom for rear passengers
Very presentable inside and out

Complete with subtle coach lines down both sides, this Jaguar’s white paintwork continues to present well for its age. Likewise, the bodywork looks straight and solid with well-fitting doors and no obvious defects to report. All four OEM alloy wheels present superbly with no obvious kerb damage, while the brightwork looks in fine order all-round. There’s some light corrosion apparent to the underside, which amounts for the sole MOT advisory.

On the inside, all looks in smart order, in line with the very low mileage. We note some light marks to the steering wheel, and a smattering of very light wear elsewhere, but certainly nothing especially egregious. The leather upholstery, woodwork, deep pile carpets, dashboard, headlining and door cards all look fantastic. We understand the cabin electrics/systems to be in good working order, ready for the new owner.

The Mechanics

4.0-litre AJ-V8
Five-speed automatic gearbox
Well-maintained as part of a wedding hire fleet
All looks original and in good order inside the engine bay
Recently passed MOT

The X308 was the last car to use the XJ40 platform, although it was the first XJ to use the AJ-V8 engine. In 4.0-litre form and equipped with a five-speed ZF gearbox, this 1998 X308 made 290 horsepower straight from the factory and a matching 290 lb-ft of torque.

We understand this XJ to be driving well and in good mechanical order for its age. The fact it’s covered so few miles suggests there will be very little in the way of mechanical wear, an assertion supported by the excellent MOT record.

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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