How a Bodyshop Boss Brought a Wrecked Jaguar XK V8 Back to Life

Chris Shepherd owns a 16-year-old Jaguar XK 5.0 that was once torn open by a lorry. The truck’s wheel nuts ripped off the driver’s side door skin and rear quarter panel, leaving the car severely damaged. However, because Chris owns a bodyshop, he jumped at the chance to buy the damaged machine. He notes that the XK’s aluminium bonded and riveted body is actually easier to repair than a traditional steel body, bypassing the need to drill out spot welds and reducing the risk of moisture-trapped corrosion. While aluminium brings its own challenges—such as brittleness and difficulty fixing dents—Chris successfully replaced the door and rear quarter panel. The car, which was registered in 2010 and has covered 70,000 miles, has been in his possession for just two months. It joins a car collection that includes a Ford Sierra XR4x4 and a Mk2 Ford Escort RS2000 with a Burton 2.1-litre engine, having recently parted ways with a Jaguar XJR 4.2. Smitten with the XK’s styling, V8 burble, ample power, and comfort, Chris admits he didn’t even tell his partner he bought it until it appeared outside.