Spyderromeo

Hi I am Jim I have owned my XJ8 from new to scrap yard at the weekend. It has been a magnificent beast it looked like it had just left the showroom but the underside was beyond repair. I now want to replace it but I am scared of another run in with the tin worm. The car I am considering is an XKR 4.2 L V8 with a six speed auto gearbox convertible. I want a good one when I buy it but over the years (it is going to be my last car) it will be developed into a fabulous car. The body is aluminium I understand does this mean safety ? I am an ex BL BIW production Engineering manager so know quite a bit about car bodies. I worked for Triumph and the Truck division. I still have a track day car ( 550 Spyder replica ) which I use for hill climbs. What say you all any advice will be welcome. 
Jim