XJ (X350) Vs early XF as a driver's car?

[jezrd]

I've been reading a lot of great stuff about the XF and have virtually decided it will be my next set of wheels...

How do the standard (non CATS) cars handle compare to the X350 XJ?

FYI: I had an X350 with the 3.0 V6, and it must be said it was one of the finest cars I've owned. Mine had so-called Custom alloys with big sticky tyres, so was very difficult to upset with the 3.0 in the dry.

With an XF, I'd consider the 3.0 S diesel, the 4.2 or the SV8. Any opinions on 3.0 S diesel Vs 4.2 would be welcome too... Not normally a diesel guy but the S looks rapid.

[jezrd]

The Leaper said:

Even better... with the XF get a 5.0 V8 n/a. Rare car. Usually fully loaded too. I had a Portfolio model for 2 1/2 years, excellent car. Had to go because wife found it less comfy after a hip op.

R.

Etypephil said:

We had a 2008 4.2 V8 for some time; a really good car, but the SV8 is better. Both are well planted (better than the X350) and ride well. Early 5.0s, both NA and supercharged XFR are great, and about for not too much money now.
The diesel looks good on paper, but is disappointing to drive, and when it goes wrong can cost the value of the car to fix.

http://jagchat.net/

Thanks both for your responses.

I'd love a 5.0, from what I know they're also a lot more throaty and vocal, which would be fun. However, I'm probably in the market for an earlier car with a budget of 5-8k depending on spec and mileage. B&W audio is a must-have. If I miraculously found a solid 5.0 or XFR near that budget, I could make the jump, but I believe the entry point is 10k for them.

Any one willing to place a bet on whether any of these models will appreciate in value? 4.2 and SV8 seem pretty rare.