S type, x type, XJ6

[tmg123]

Hello all, just after a bit of buying advise. I currently drive a little Suzuki Swift Sport, nice car but not really suited to 20 odd miles of motorway commute so I'm thinking of selling and buying a bigger more comfortable Jaaag.

Not too fussed about fuel consumption just want a bit of welly and reliability and am looking to spend upto 5 maybe 6K. What would you recommend? S type, X type or XJ? Anything I should look out for?

[Paul-2o1qv]

X type is a lesser car, and not much cheaper.


S type and XJ very good and very similar.

IMHO XJ is a bit too big to park, and has air suspention which is a bit to complicated for an older car that you pay to maintain your self.


Which is why I've had two S types and my dad drive one too. Great cars

[tmg123]

Thanks for writing, kind of what I was thinking too, when were they facelifted? I understand this improved thing a fair bit. What trim do you recommend? I quite like the sporty body kit but don't fancy the harder ride of a sportyer car. Finally v6 or v8? Thanks!

[The Leaper]

S-Type original model is to be avoided because the first facelift improved so many things: suspension far better, gearbox (went to 6 from 5) much nicer interior, and marginally more space inside.. I think this happened at the end of 2002.

I'd certainly avoid the 4.0 V8 unless you can be guaranteed the chain tensioners and timing chains have been done otherwise it's around £1500. Best bet is to try and find a nice 4.2 V8 SE. Does not have the same tensioners etc issues. Mind you, having had the 4.0 V8 for 3 years and the 4.2 V8 for over 10 years I would say that! I would not be interested in the other engine models....it's a Jaguar after all.

Now I have an XF it has the 5.0 V8 non supercharged engine, 385 BHP: perfect.

R.