FAST

FACTS

2003 and 2004 are unique years for the XK/XKR as they are the only pre-facelift cars to receive the larger 4.2L engine and 6spd ZF automatic. 2002 and earlier models received the less powerful 4.0L engine/5spd, while 2005+ facelift models gave up the clean lines for a ground effects kit – in particular, an oversized rear bumper
The X100 generation XK was Jaguar’s modern-day take on the classic E-type of the ’60s. The aerodynamic shape was perfected in a wind tunnel and designed to generate the least amount of wind noise while providing downforce and brake cooling
2002 and earlier cars use a 5spd automatic transmission from Mercedes (5G Tronic). As this transmission is durable enough for the Mercedes M113 V8 (SL500, CLK500, etc), it is more than adequate for the XKR’s supercharged engine. Compared to the ZF transmission used in the base XJ8 (known for prematurely failure on early models), this transmission is much stronger and virtually problem free
The 4.2L supercharged V8 (AJ33S) found in 2003+ models feature a forged steel crankshaft, forged/fracture split rods, forged aluminum pistons, piston oil cooling jets, and a 2.0L Eaton supercharger (M112 Gen 5) pushing 13 psi of boost. Over 80% of peak torque is available from 1400 RPM (!) providing the effortless surge at throttle tip-in that supercharged Jags are known for
The 4.2L cars are backed by a ZF 6spd automatic transmission. Stopping power is from Brembo (disc brakes all around) and optional 5 spoke BBS “Detroit” aluminum wheels (shown here) further distinguish the “R” from the normal XK
Despite the increased power and extra gear, the 4.2L cars don’t post 0-60 times any faster than the 4.0L cars, due in part to the 106 lb weight gain from the 2003 update. It should be noted that the 4.2L cars feel noticeably more powerful around town, and are ultimately faster in most conditions
While this generation of Jaguar cars were designed under Ford ownership, the XJ and XK are not Ford products (a common misconception). The XJ/XK are genuine Jaguar vehicles built in the Coventry, England plant and are powered by Jaguar built engines (AJ-V8) composed of Jaguar parts (minus the supercharger -very few Ford parts exist on these cars). The only Jags built by Ford are the X type and S type

Key Model Year Changes:

The X100 generation XKR sold in the U.S. from 2000 to 2006
During the first 3 years of production (2000-2002), the XKR used a 4.0L powerplant
2002 cars receive the latest and greatest metal-bodied timing chain tensioners. Specifically, cars with an engine build date of Aug 13th, 2001 or later (engine S/N 0108130000 and onward) have these Morse-style metal tensioners. Early 2002 MY cars may not have these tensioners. The above date refers to the engine build date, not the vehicle build date. Prior years feature plastic tensioners that are prone to failing extremely early. Thankfully, these earlier cars can easily be retrofitted with the newer style tensioner
2003 is the first year of serious updates, most notably the 4.2 engine and ZF 6spd automatic (replacing the 5spd). 2003 is also the first year of the Dove Interior option (pictured)
The 4.2L is not victim to premature timing chain guide failures that haunt the earlier 4.0L engines
2003 marks the first year of standard Brembo brakes, as well as HID headlights, DSC, auto wipers, rearview mirror compass, new wheels, the adaptive cruise control option, and more. The trunk trim piece (above plate) is now body color, rather than chrome
Jaguar sold twice as many XKR convertibles as they did XKR coupes, making the Coupe a tough find on the used market
2003 and 2004 are the only years to combine the 4.2L with the early “lean” body style
2005-2006 are generally grouped together in terms of styling and interior updates. These years received a facelift w/ updated bumpers, grille, and added side skirts

Specs:

4.0L Supercharged V8	5spd auto (Mercedes-Benz W5A580)
370 hp @ 6150 RPM	387 lb/ft torque @ 3600 RPM
0-60 MPH: 5.2 sec	Top Speed: 170 MPH
Base Price in 2002:	$79,330