4/6/20 2/75 Jaguar XK8 Convertible

Now that the 1-100 line is complete, it is time to take a look at a handful of vehicles for the Rest of World line, or ROW.  Introduced in 1998 this separate of line allowed Matchbox to create different lines and vehicles that would be different from the USA line though in fairness those special ROW new castings would be released in the US in later series or multipacks.  The series compromised of 75 vehicles instead of the 100 found in the U.S. line and in some cases also offered different series of 5 vehicles compared to the U.S. line.  The ROW line lasted even in the early Hero City era after 2000, though eventually by 2005 the lineup reverted back to a unified lineup with 75 vehicles.  I will admit there are a few vehicles that I received in which I’m not sure was in the ROW line for 2000 and those vehicles were likely from an Easter set that offered three eggs that featured three different vehicles inside.  It is likely this Jaguar XK8 was one of them.  Introduced in 1998 the new XK8 was a long overdue replacement for the long-serving XJS in 1996 and also followed the lines of the E-type, especially in the flow of the coupe’s roofline.  Despite competition with Hot Wheels for the same XK8 convertible, Matchbox went for a larger car with a longer, lower stance that better represents the actual car, as does the detailed headlights, taillights, and side marker lights and trim.  On this version the tooling is starting to look a bit crude with some rough edges and it incorporates the flower pedal wheels of 2001.  The interior is nicely done and features detail seats for four, the ripples of the convertible top boot, and the dashboard with central gauges and 4-spoke steering wheel, while the base shows off the detailed drivetrain and exhaust system.  The best of this casting was in the ROW series with solid colors and detailed lighting, and that would be where the XK8 stayed for a few more years.

Specifications:

· Engine: 4.0L DOHC V8, 290 hp.

· Transmission: 5-speed automatic

· 0-60 mph: 7 sec.

· Real vehicle price: #50,000 est. 1996

Rating:  4.8 out of 5 stars