XK8 OR XKR

[Craig8419]

Hey I wondered if anyone could advise. Basically I want to buy an XKR 4.2 between 2002 2004. I am struggling to find this within my budget. I see there are many XK8s available for less in the 2002 to 2204 bracket with the 4.2.

I also see many 4 litre XKR within my budget but wonder if the older engine is as good. I have read it isn’t.

Basically my worry is I buy an XK8 and wonder for ever and a day how much faster the XKR would have been.

I imagine the BHP difference from 4.2 litre to 4.2 litre XKR supercharged is enormous when behind the wheel? And I imagine the latter sounds much better.

I have looked at remapping on XK8 but the gains are really minimal from 290bhp to 325bhp.

[snafu10]

Have you considered nice easy repair 2012 xkr on copart bid up to £3650 at mo 42k on miles no airbagpurchased my f type from them in 2020 still running

[TheDriver77]

Big jump: a 4.2 XKR feels way quicker than a 4.2 XK8, with stronger brakes, CATS, and that supercharger whine. even a tidy 4.0 XKR is a proper step up.
Buy on condition/history updated chain tensioners and water pump, healthy intercooler pump, fresh gearbox service, and rust-free sills/floor, and unless you want a project, skip Copart and hold out for the cleanest straight XKR you can.

[P700DEE]

No details about budget? Coupe or Conv? The big issue with X100 cars is rust, closely followed by rust. Mechanically they are not a big issue. Don't exclude 4.0Rs as they have the better Mercedes box and metal parts that the 8s don't. The engines , tensioners etc. are most likely done (not needed on 4.2) and at your price (£3-5K ?) are not worth worrying about. Spare engiines are available in the unlikely event you have an issue. They love miles, hate salt and prefer being driven to being a garage queen. Definitely buy on condition and service rather than miles.
X150 Rs are available from £5k for a Coupe