Hi, I'm new to the JAG club. I'm thinking I would like to purchase a XJ hard top coupe 2001- 2005. This would be all I can afford, as I realize these cars require high maintenance.
I would like to know the difference between an XJ8 and XJR? Am I correct that the XJ8 has a 4.0 liter engine and the XJR has a 4.2 super charged engine, but both have the same body and frame? Or am I way off base?

Thank you,

Dann

Submitted by stevejag@sbcgl… on Thu, 05/16/2013 - 17:38

Edited on 2013-05-16 17:42:40

In the interest of being accurate; CATS is not a traction system, it is a suspension system. It stands for Computer Active Technology Suspension. The suspension dampers [shocks to some], are electrically activated to stiffen or soften the suspension as needed for the conditions. They are also used for reducing body roll during "spirited cornering" as the Brit's like to call it.

I agree with Mr. Hayden; on the whole, CATS has not been much of a problem over the years; in function or expense.

Cheers,

Submitted by deltajhotel@aol.com on Thu, 05/16/2013 - 17:19

Hi Dan and welcome to the club. I have owned a 2002 XJR for several years now and CATS is not a problem area on these cars ( my opinion). If you feel the need for power (375 bhp) the 1998/2003 X-308 BODIED cars are a good buy. They are different, apart from the supercharged engine, than a standard V8 X-308 BODY in that the front grill is mesh and the surround is body color as are door handles and rear trunk plinth. The interior seating is also different perforated sport leather heated front and rear seats. The standard wheels from 2000 were 18 inch alloy asteroids and the rear exhaust outlets were larger and XJR is stamped into the horn pad on the steering wheel and badged on the rear. Only 15203, Inc Long wheelbase models, where produced between 1997/2002
You could also buy an X-300 BODIED supercharged Jaguar 1994/1997 but only with the AJI6 4.0, If you are lucky enough you might find an X-308 body configured as a Vanden Plas ( LUXURY) Long wheel base with a supercharged V8 VERY RARE
Are you sure you are talking about an XJR/XJ8 or are you meaning an XK8/XKR??

Submitted by dgbelanger@att.net on Thu, 05/16/2013 - 16:30

Dann -

There are several answers to your questions. In general, V8's prior to 2003 were 4.0's; after that (Until recently) they were 4.2's. R models were supecharged and had CATS (Computer Assisted Traction System) - a questionable idea unless you like to spend money on maintenance - my service mgr said my guess of $1K/ccorner was close!

Depending on the year XJ8's and XJR's may be supercharged and XJ-8 or L may be longer.

My advice is to have a knowledgeable JCNA member accompany you when you look. He/She should be able to explain the differences. Insurance on different models may vary, too.