Approximately 3850 - 4050 lbs (1746 - 1837 kg), depending on trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4800 lbs (2177 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this era; owner assessments generally positive for structural integrity.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not specifically rated by IIHS for this era.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - often standard on XJR, optional on XJ8)
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional on XJ8, standard on XJR), crumple zones, reinforced safety cage
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Cassette player and CD changer (optional), analog radio, basic trip computer.
Display:
Central LCD display for climate control and radio information.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control, parking sensors (optional on some models)
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Analog cellular phone integration (optional, largely obsolete)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (or as per manual recommendations, especially if towing)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (using iridium or platinum type plugs)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.8 Liters (9.3 US Quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Timing chain tensioner failure (early models with plastic tensioners), nikasil cylinder liners (early AJ26 engines – later ones have aluminum/silicon liners), ABS/traction control module failures, secondary air injection system issues, water pump leaks, transmission control module issues, driver's side airbag recall (potential).
Recommended Preventative Maintenance:
Proactive replacement of plastic timing chain tensioners with updated metal versions on early models, regular inspection of ABS module connections, keeping coolant system in good order.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious, high-performance vehicles with a focus on style and driving dynamics.
Model Evolution
X308 Introduction:
The X308 generation replaced the X300 and introduced the new AJ-V8 engine, marking a significant departure from the inline-six engines previously used.
Engine Development:
The 4.0L V8 was Jaguar's first mass-produced V8 and was developed in collaboration with Ford.
While specific awards for the '98 model are scarce, the XJ series has historically been recognized for its styling, luxury, and comfort.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied in its time, with particular attention paid to reliability concerns related to the early V8 engines and electrical systems. The manual helps address these.
Certifications
Manual Certification:
Derived from official Jaguar factory service documentation, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer standards.