They all come with a 4.2-liter, 32-valve, 90-degree V8 with aluminum block, heads and pistons, and a six-speed automatic transmission; both engine and transmission were introduced for 2003. The XK8's engine is rated at 294 horsepower and 303 pound-feet of torque.
The XKR seems like a bargain here, when you consider that the Super V8 version of the XJ sedan adds nearly $27,000 to the price, not merely $12,000 (though the XKR gets slapped with a $1,000 federal gas-guzzler tax. The XKR, which Jaguar also likes to call the Super V8 4.2, adds an Eaton Roots type supercharger which boosts horsepower to 390 and torque to a tire-smoking 399. The XKR also uses more deluxe 18-inch alloy wheels, and bigger ventilated brake rotors (14 inches vs. 12.8 inches); not only bigger, but they're the famous Italian Brembos, with floating aluminum calipers. Also standard on the XKR are a computer-controlled active suspension that's unavailable for the XK8, and a DVD navigation system and Xenon headlamps, which are $2400 and $675 options on the XK8. For the XKR Coupe only, there is a special-order Handling Package ($3000) which consists of firmer shocks, springs and antiroll bars, a retuned speed-sensitive power steering, and cross-drilled brake rotors.
Standard equipment for all XK Jags includes Dynamic Stability Control, ABS with Electronic Brake Assist, front and side airbags, an anti-theft engine immobilizer, Alpine audio system with 6CD changer, rain-sensing wipers, leather seats, plus all the luxury equipment you would expect from a $70,000 car, including burl walnut galore.
Adaptive cruise control, which maintains a programmable distance between your XK and the car in front, costs $2200. For the XK8 only, there are 19-inch alloy wheels ($1200). XKR offers optional 20-inch BBS wheels, of which three sets are available, each for a stunning $6000. For the XKR you can also get a performance steering wheel with Momo shift knob ($300), cross-drilled rotors with red calipers ($500) and Recaro seats ($2000). If only you could get a six-speed gearbox, you'd be ready for the track, where a car like this belongs.
Finally, special paint is available for your XK, ranging from $1000 to $7000.
