Mark7, 8,9

. I should have added I just want to view a MK 7, 8, or 9, not necessarily buy one at this time. Do not need to test drive one, just want to view one. I do know of rust areas in certain parts of the bodies. Rebuilding a Trans may or may not be an issue depending on any special tools need to do the job. Local driving would be the first object. Maybe longer trips later. My eldest son races a Miata in SCCA & NASA events and my daughter and youngest son were karting champs in a couple of different series, mostly in the shifter karts. So I do have a little knowledge of vehicles, but no expert by any means. Try to learn something every day.

I have done a little research. As far as I can tell the MK 7, 8, 9ÔÇÖs are roughly the same body with various upgrades as are the MK I and IIÔÇÖs. I have seen the ones and twos and love that body style. I would like to see the 7/8/9 to see if I like it as well. Some vehicles do not look as good in person as they do in pictures. Not really sure which way I am headed. I guess it would depend on cost of vehicle and what it would be worth restored verses cost of restoring. I know it is cheaper to buy one done, but believe one can still come out ok doing one. I just saw a MKII in Vegas in very good condition for $5500.00. Need some interior work, but the body was excellent although it was not the stock color. Wish now I would have bought it. I have owned a couple of XKEÔÇÖs many years ago along with other British vehicles, mostly Triumphs. I am capable of doing most work myself and am looking for something to tinker with. I love Jags and have since I can remember seeing a MKI when I was in junior high.

Have had my Mark IX since 1969. Is interior in Steve Kennedy's book. If you can hang on, I expect (hope) to make Louisville and Columbus concours in 2011 (if I can hang on). There was also another one at Louisville two years ago. Have only seen a few MK 7. Never seen a Mark 8 (exept a body mounted on a GM pickup chassis). Check the specifications in Kennedy's book. Quite a few upgrades for MK IX. These cars have "acres of leather, wood and sheet metal". If you opt for one, get a thorough inspection. Mechanical is relatively cheap (note relatively). The body can be a nightmare. Have inspected thoroughly by a qualified body person and expect to find things he didn't find when you get it apart. Also, what is your intended use? Makes a big difference if you intend to restore to original state or drive. Transmission can be difficult and some are converted to GM transmission for lower RPM's, better gas mileage and dependability. There is one of these in St. Louis which may be available. Your other choices are more readilly available. I can't help with these, but they obviously have fewer acres.

Good point Dick--gee you would have thought I would have suggested that! Thanks

Best thing short of test driving is to go to the Shoppe on this site, click on Jaguar Books, scroll down and buy one of Steve Kennedys books that show pictures of the exterior, interior, engine and explain the differences of all of the older sedans and sports cars. They are on sale now also. It should help narrow down your search.

Don --wow! Kind of 5 different breeds of cat. The VII,VIII,IX are similar but more to the VIII and VIX being alike. The MK VII is a earlier car. The same for the 3.4L Saloon (aka MK1). What are you looking for in this purchase?