UK vs Italy — 1996 vs 2017
| XK8 Coupe | 812 Superfast | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 789 hp |
| Torque | 290 lb-ft | 530 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,996 cc | 6,496 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 211 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.7 sec | 10.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,604 lbs | 3,594 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,588 mm | 2,720 mm |
| Length | 4,760 mm | 4,657 mm |
| Units Produced | 90,000 | 4,000 |
| Original MSRP | $64,700 | $335,275 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1996 Jaguar XK8 Coupe offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1996 Jaguar XK8 Coupe versus 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast holds a clear advantage in raw power with 789 hp compared to 290 hp, a 499-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar XK8 uses a V8 DOHC displacing 3,996 cc, while the Ferrari 812 Superfast relies on a V12 DOHC with 6,496 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,000 units built, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar XK8's 90,000 examples. On the collector market, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast commands a significant premium over the 1996 Jaguar XK8 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2017 Ferrari 812 Superfast rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.