AQUESTION OF SPORTS

The Mercedes-Benz SL is often seen as the most sensible and grown up grand tourer. But can it match the enjoyment offered by Jaguar’s XK8?

SAM SKELTON

Money. Status. They’re nice to have. And they’re nice to show off if you do. Almost since the dawn of time, the ultimate automotive status symbol has been the Mercedes-Benz SL: a car that shows that you can afford a large and luxurious saloon, but you’d rather spend the money on something less practical and more personal. And like it or lump it, since the launch of the E-type Series 3 Jaguar jas been playing catch-up, its large and comfortable cruisers evolving from their sports car origins into something that was targeted squarely at the open Merc. Thirty years on from the initial shift in direction, Jaguar’s offering was the XK8, tested here in 4.2-litre form. But the GT Jag – in all eras – had one distinct advantage over…

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Jaguar World (Digital) - 1 Issue, May 2025

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