The facelifted XK8s from 2003 onwards were the best of the bunch thanks to Jaguar’s new 4.2- litre V8 – and in non-R format they’re a terrific bargain that still come with plenty of clout.
These two chairmen’s carriages offered what their manufacturers felt was the perfect blend of comfort and technology but achieved their aims in different ways – one favoured evolution, while the other was unashamedly revolutionary. Both are excellent value modern classics today, but one’s just that little bit more captivating
The 3.0 CSL and its contemporary, the 2002 Turbo, laid the foundations for BMW’s ‘ultimate driving machine’ adventure. Along with their less powerful but still charming siblings, they pointed the way to BMW’s modern car-making template: mixing the excitement and drama of the better Italian sports saloons and coupes with the reliability and quality of a German car. It’s been paying dividends ever since.
Back in 2003, Volkswagen may have just debuted the latest 3.2-litre V6 hot hatch, but somebody at Wolfsburg decided that engine would work far better planted in the middle of a sleek roadster powering the rear wheels – enter the Volkswagen Concept R.
You might not believe it but Stephen Horscroft’s B10 V8 has covered over 185,000-miles. However, with a fastidious approach to maintenance and curatorship, it’s more willing to play than ever
