x300 sport - 3.2 or 4.0 ?

[somnv]

Thinking about getting an x300 sport but not sure whether to go for a 3.2 which is more common or try to find a 4.0. What is the difference in power and does anyone know the 0-60 times?

Also, what is the difference between the sport models and the standard ones other than the obvious styling differences?

Thanks
Norman

[a8hex]

The Sports have slightly firmer suspension than the standard cars, but no where near as firm as the XJR. IMHO it is the best ride/handling compromise.
They also get different (nicer) seats.

The 4L cars get a better gearbox than the 3.2s

As you say, there are a lot more 3.2s than there are 4s.

I believe the 3.2 engine is considered smoother than the 4. The 4 has the advantage of greater torque.

I'd recommend you tried to drive the 2 of them and see which you prefer. The 3.2 is no slouch.

[Jaguar steve]

As a8 says there's not a huge difference in the firmness of suspension on the X300 between the sport and touring versions.

You could always go for 17" wheels and 50 profile tyres or maybe even fit the XJR wheels and up rated dampers if you want to improve the level of grip. I had a X300 with touring suspension which was OK and suited my needs but it was a bit wallowy and didn't inspire much confidence when pressing on. I've driven a couple of X300 sports and the slightly higher damper and spring rates improves firmness and feel which makes makes all the difference, but obviously with some loss of ride quality.

Even the sport version is no b road hooning machine 'tho. A well driven hot hatch will easily outrun an XJ through the twisty bits and tyres and suspension have to be in good condition too - there's no point in expecting a Jaguar to grip and handle well with poor quality tyres and worn suspension.

IIRC the 0-62 time for the 3.2 X300 automatic is 9.4 seconds and the 3.2 is rated at 220BHP

[a8hex]

Jaguar steve said:

Even the sport version is no b road hooning machine 'tho. A well driven hot hatch will easily outrun an XJ through the twisty bits and tyres and suspension have to be in good condition too - there's no point in expecting a Jaguar to grip and handle well with poor quality tyres and worn suspension.

Till you get to a nice long steady state corner :-)
Motorway junctions are an X300s forte
Before buying the Jag I had a Celica GT4, the Toyota was quicker in most corners, and I wouldn't want to put the Jag in a 4 wheel drift at 70 just for a laugh. But through motorway junctions and other steady state corners the Jag is much quicker.

[Ecurie Ecosse]

I had a 3.2 Sport which I loved.

Probably go for the 4 litre if you have the choice - a bit faster and the mpg is around the same IIRC.

Wonderful cars!

[budd]

Go for the larger engine everytime, there are no down sides to owning a 4.0 rather than the 3.2, sure the smaller lump is a great engine but it can't beat the 4.0 in terms of power, torque or indeed fuel consumption, the latter seems to be similar between the two.
I guess size does matter !!!

[Pettsie]

I have had a 3.2 sport for just over 4 years. I have no complaints at all and intend to keep the car. It's just gone over 60k.

[a8hex]

Pettsie said:

I have had a 3.2 sport for just over 4 years. I have no complaints at all and intend to keep the car. It's just gone over 60k.

I've had mine for 13 years now and still can't find a car I'd rather have as a "car". I even looked at replacing it with an Aston Martin Virage and decided that I much preferred the Jag, shattered my dream in many ways. The Jag stays.