Information Request - XJR

[Dave200]

Just the usual run-of-the-mill testing-the-water thread really.

I have just had a very unusual (read as low) Insurance Quote for a MY98-onwards Supercharged Jaguar XJR, and it seems like an avenue which I would be interested in pursuing. Although I may be a little young (23) to fit the stereotype of a flat-cap wearing, it appears to be an excellent car which falls alongside the E34 M5 in my budget and needs for a replacement car.

But obviously, before I start to dream about wafting along in a supercharged boardroom on wheels; I could really do with some facts.
To fall in line with my performance expectations, I would be looking at the 370bhp model - Which I believe to be post-1998. As there appears to be a great deal of homogeneity between the pre and post-98 cars, is there surefire way to distinguish to the higher powered, later model from its predecessor (325bhp I seem to recall)?

A few more questions if I may:
What do you consider to be the most prevalent and expensive problems facing these cars?
Is there any particular spec/colour combination which offers stronger residuals than its counterparts?
Although running costs aren't likely to be an influencing factor in my decision, it would be nice to be aware of any potentially extortionate service charges/intervals ahead (belts changing etc.).
Is a full Jag service history a necessity? Is there an alternative/available network of private specialists?
Obviously the lower the better; but what sort of mileage should I be looking at for a trouble-free ownership experience - Considering that I intend to run the car for roughly 1 year/10k miles before selling?
Are there any easy and reliable ways of boosting performance a little whilst maintaining reasonable servicing and reliability?

Thanks in advance to any contributors.

[groomi]

There have been many threads on this subject as the X308 XJR is such an affordable purchase considering it's performance. I was 26 when I bought mine, having run an XJ40 4.0 since I was 22, so don't assume we're all flat-cap wearing gents. I prefer a Panama myself

Anyway, a couple of links for you to read:

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=233526&f=85&h=0

www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=195961&f=85&h=0

To tell the difference between the X300 (Straight 6) and X308 (V8) XJRs, check the following:

rectangular indicators/oval indicators
XJR/V8 badges on 'B' pillar
17"/18" (or above) wheels
Boxy interior (same as XJ40)/Curvy interior

Read the threads about engine problems as they are the weakest link on '98-2000 models.

Hope that helps!

[a8hex]

Dave200 said:

Just the usual run-of-the-mill testing-the-water thread really. I have just had a very unusual (read as low) Insurance Quote for a MY98-onwards Supercharged Jaguar XJR, and it seems like an avenue which I would be interested in pursuing. Although I may be a little young (23) to fit the stereotype of a flat-cap wearing, it appears to be an excellent car which falls alongside the E34 M5 in my budget and needs for a replacement car.

I suspect that the buyer profile for M5s is not that different from that of the XJR, most XJs were bought by older drivers because not many younger ones could afford an XJ when new.

Dave200 said:

But obviously, before I start to dream about wafting along in a supercharged boardroom on wheels; I could really do with some facts. To fall in line with my performance expectations, I would be looking at the 370bhp model - Which I believe to be post-1998. As there appears to be a great deal of homogeneity between the pre and post-98 cars, is there surefire way to distinguish to the higher powered, later model from its predecessor (325bhp I seem to recall)?

The earlier 94 -> 96 cars are straight 6s (X300 model) not V8s (X308). From a distance you can usually spot these as the chrome strip across the top bumper goes all the way across the top, the later V8 cars have chrome just in the corners. Closer up the V8 cars usually have V8 badges (not sure for the XJR but I think so).
Even these 6 cylinder XJRs are seriously quick.

A 98 car is a 4.0L V8.

Dave200 said:

A few more questions if I may: What do you consider to be the most prevalent and expensive problems facing these cars?

As with the similar ages BMWs Jag used Narsil bores that had problems with high sulphur fuels. I'm sure a various V8 owners will give you more details on this problem, but you need to make sure that a 98 cars has either had it's engine replaced or that you get a blow test on the engine.

Dave200 said:

Is there any particular spec/colour combination which offers stronger residuals than its counterparts? Although running costs aren't likely to be an influencing factor in my decision, it would be nice to be aware of any potentially extortionate service charges/intervals ahead (belts changing etc.). Is a full Jag service history a necessity? Is there an alternative/available network of private specialists? Obviously the lower the better; but what sort of mileage should I be looking at for a trouble-free ownership experience - Considering that I intend to run the car for roughly 1 year/10k miles before selling? Are there any easy and reliable ways of boosting performance a little whilst maintaining reasonable servicing and reliability? Thanks in advance to any contributors.

I belive you can change the pully size on the supercharger to change it's gearing.
Racinggreen cars do various upgrades, as I'm sure do various others.

[Dave200]

Thanks very much for the prompt feedback - It looks like the course of buying an XJR wont be quite so smooth as I had envisaged...

I shall endeavour to keep you guys updated.

[XJR420]

I think you'll find that the extra 2 cylinders are a dead give away as to it being a post 98 model! Also, be careful your flat hat doesnt get blown clean off your head when you touch that little pedal on the right!

Joking aside, good luck with finding your self a good 'un, you wont regret buying one, I have yet to find a car that makes me smile as much!

[800]

Good choice, Sir. E34 M5 or XJR!

E34 M5 is better handling and more of a 'driving' experience. It is an older car though (production began in 1989 IIRC). Also the engines (3.6 or3.8, are in a much higher state of tune. I'd imagine the M5 wil be much more expensive to maintain.

The XJR feels a much bigger, heavier car. However, IMHO, its MUCH faster in a straight line. I think you'll find the enigine quite powerful enough I'd suggest concentrate on upgrading the brakes rather than the engine .

For me It would be XJR every time. Newer, faster, MUCH more special, and less costly to run. (oh, and its not a BMW).

(mind you, have always fancied an E34 M5 Touring )

[aph202]

Hi Dave200,

I too am 23, and am seriously considering a V8 XJR as my next car.

Quick question, where did you get your quote from, and if it's not too rude to ask, how much was it?

Cheers,

Adrian.

[Philhopkins]

The post 98 XJR is a stunning looking car. If you can find one within budget the limited edition XJR 100 looks stonking!