X100 convertible : 4.0 XKR vs 4.2 V8 ?
Discussion
Depends on your anticipated usage and how important the power is for you. The normally aspirated one isn't exactly slow but at the same time isn't particularly fast by the standards of the modern hot hatch.
In the end buy on condition, a well maintained 4.0 will no doubt be less trouble than a poorly maintained 4.2, assuming the tensioners etc have been done on the 4.0. There will probably also be some subtle exterior styling changes between the 2 cars as well.
In the end buy on condition, a well maintained 4.0 will no doubt be less trouble than a poorly maintained 4.2, assuming the tensioners etc have been done on the 4.0. There will probably also be some subtle exterior styling changes between the 2 cars as well.
The Mercedes 5 speed fitted to the 4.0R is a better box than the ZF six speed fitted to all 4.2s but the extra ratio allows a better cruise and improved mpg. There is no comparison between the drive (power) of a 4.0R and a 4.2NA the surge from the Supercharger is why you buy an R and why they are just better. The 4.2 is the better sorted engine but by now most 4.0 engines will have had the potential issues addressed. I have had a 4.0R for 12 years and had a 4.2NA for three during which I wished I had bought a second R.
Bossv8 said:
That's interesting. In what regards is it a better gearbox ?
I am now looking at a 2001 model. I think those have had all the problems sorted or are there still things to be sorted on those?
A XK of that age should be fitted with the revised AJ27 engine which means the weak water pumps and throttle bodies and Nicasil linings you may read about are no longer of concern. Secondary timing tensioners still are though and you'll need to either see a receipt showing the metal bodied versions have been retrofitted or take the Rh cam cover off and have a look yourself.I am now looking at a 2001 model. I think those have had all the problems sorted or are there still things to be sorted on those?
Apart from that chances are the car will be seriously in need of a gearbox and diff oil change and you'll need to be very aware of floorpan and general corrosion issues with the XK8 and also the condition of suspension, tyres and brakes.
As with any old car buy very carefully on condition and history and IMO budget for a full fluid change.
Bossv8 said:
At what month of 2000 or from what VIN were all mentioned issues solved?
Thanks.
Assuming the XK was revised at the same time as the XJ then all the early throttle bodies should have been changed under a factory recall and engines should have been revised from AJ26 to AJ27 for the 2000 model year - you can tell from the XJ VIN, but I don't know if the same applies to the XK - which version is fitted.Thanks.
AJ27 engines have steel liners instead of the Nicasil coated bore in the AJ26, revised water pumps with a metal not plastic impellor and mk2 secondary tensioners as well as other modifications. Some early cars may have had a later engine fitted under warranty and you can identify these by the presence of a green tag on the back of the RH cylinder head. At sometime in the production run the ZF5 5 speed gearbox fitted to the N/A cars had modified transmission components.
You'll need to make sure the 3rd gen metal tensioners and later water pumps have been retro fitted to both the AJ27 and 27 versions.
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