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Both the Jaguar XK8 and Aston Martin DB7 were created when both marques were under the ownership of Ford. Two prestige British brands, owned by an American company battled it out in sales, and both were very popular in the USA. But which one’s better? More importantly, which one should you buy now?

On the road:

Both are brilliant on the road, as you’d expect of Jaguar and Aston Martin. The supercharged 3.2 litre straight six is the pick of the bunch, delivering shattering performance and a supercharger howl, or serene like motoring, just depending upon your mood.

Ride quality is fairly predictable. The XK8’s is softer and less ruffling, and the steering is lighter. However, the Aston is harder, more active and more communicative.

Looks:

Both are achingly wonderful to look at. When seen next to each other, you can tell there’s more than a striking resemblance between the two, even though they don’t share an outer panel in common.  Both are subtle to look at, and there’s not much to pick between them in this department. The Jag’s possibly got a nicer interior though.

Price:

Pretty decent DB7s can be had for £15,000, and absolutely mint ones can be bought for £25,000. Prices are beginning to pick up though, so if you want to buy one, better do it now.

The big cat is a lot cheaper. In fact, they’re pretty much as low as they’re going to get. £5000 will buy a very nice early example, and they can be had for even less if you’re willing to get your hands dirty. Convertible versions attract a price premium, 25-30% for the Jaguar, and nearer 40% for the Aston Martin.

Verdict:

Picking the difference between these two is a hard choice, partially because they’re so similar.  The Aston’s harder, faster, cooler. The XK8 is softer, more svelte, maybe even more refined. Exclusivity makes the Aston more expensive, but not necessarily better value for money.