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Jaguar XK Series XKR Convertible
I love exotic, sports, and classic cars. Sometimes I watch auto videos on YouTube. One of the cars that intrigued me was the Jaguar XK Series XKR Convertible. On one of the videos I watched, Hoovie’s Garage, the host says he just purchased a Jaguar XK Series XKR convertible for $6,000. Runs great, looks great, and extremely reasonably priced. I owned many cars, especially older classic and exotic cars. However, never owned or driven a Jaguar. I heard from other online forums that Jaguar XK Series XKR Convertibles are and/or have a great potential of becoming collector car status in the coming short term. Can anyone who is familiar with Jaguar XK Series XKR Convertibles tell us what your opinions are, what these cars cost knew, what years are the best, the generation and difference of the style per their year, the common problems owners experience, what to look out for when shopping for a new XKR Convertible and what year car you recommend, and your opinion on the potential appreciation or depreciation, and what type of mechanical and maintenance issues should I expect and the cost. Thank you in advance.
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1 Reply
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From the research results, I will now present the specifics regarding the Jaguar XK Series XKR Convertible.
Collector Potential and Prices
The purchase price of $6,000 that Hoovie’s Garage cites may simply be a case of exceptional luck and represent a high-mileage user example or a driver-quality auction deal. Market data suggests higher price points for this vehicle.
- The average used Jaguar XK-Series markets for around $17,255.
- At the draft auction, an average conditioned XKR sold for around £16,638, which is approximately $21,000 to the average seller.
- According to the Kelley Blue Book, a 2008 XK Convertible is currently worth approximately $10,785.
- Entry-level examples may be available for a significantly lower price.
- A few sources indicate that well-maintained models of the previous X100 generation can be found for “well under $10,000,” which makes them a very good candidate for a future classic, affordable entry-level classic.
Potential to Appreciate
- Some evidence suggests that XKR may continue to soften in value and possibly become a classic.
- People are saying that XKR prices are “creeping up,” and reasonably priced examples are selling very quickly.
- This can be explained by the older, classic XK values and the fact that no more will be made, as these models are no longer in production.
- Also, the X100 generation (early XKR) is praised for its beauty and heritage ties to the E-type, and for its remarkably low entry price, making the XKR an instant “future classic”.
- E-type owner states, however, that the depreciation clock hasn’t entirely run out, as these models are still depreciating (albeit more slowly than the standard luxury cars). XKR is still depreciating, though, at a slower rate than standard luxury cars.
- Also, one XKR owner states that, however, the depreciation clock hasn’t entirely run out, as these models are still depreciating more slowly than standard luxury cars.
Styling, Generations, and Best Years
When it comes to the two separate, distinct generations of the XK (X100 and X150) that influence what one should purchase:
1. First Generation (X100): 1996–2005
- E-type heritage is evident throughout, as it incorporates classic, more curvy design styling.
- The 5-speed auto is paired to either a 4.2L or earlier models with a 4.0L V8.
- The technology and interior, though stunning, are considerably older.
2. Second Generation (X150): 2006–2014
- In 2007, this generation was redesigned by Ian Callum, who is also known for the design of the Aston Martin DB7 and DB9.
- This generation has an all-aluminum body.
- It features a 6-speed automatic transmission, with options for a supercharged XKR or the naturally aspirated XK8.
Recommended Years:
- The majority of reliability professionals recommend targeting the years 2007–2014 as the sweet spot.
- Years 2009 and beyond are even more prestigious due to the introduction of the stronger 5.0-liter V8 engine with direct injection, which improves both performance and reliability.
- The 2009 model year is often recommended regarding reliability due to the updates made to the differentials and engine compared to previous model years.
Cost When New
When new, they were luxury cars, even expensive when they debuted:
- These were 60K+ cars when new. This indicates a starting price of over $60,000 for the base model.
- Even more expensive were the performance editions, which included the later XKR-S or the XKR 75, as well as the XKR-S GT special editions, which also approached $ 100,000, depending on the model year and options.
Common Problems and MaintenanceEngine and Supercharger:
- The 4.2L Eaton supercharger is an area of sticking concern.
- It may start giving trouble around 50,000 miles.
- A common symptom is a “shudder or clonk when turning off the engine,” which could mean this issue.
- Models from 2009 to 2010 with the 5.0L engine are significantly prone to water pump failure, which is a critical maintenance concern.
- Some common issues across the platforms include leaking oils, malfunctioning shift knobs, and constant fault codes, most prevalent in the 2007 and 2011 models.
Differential:
- 2007 and 2008 models can have some really rare differential issues, but 2009 and newer models have a better differential.
Reliability Ratings:
- Despite being in the middle of the “best generation” range, the 2007 and 2011 models are statistically the most unreliable, with the most frequent fault codes and transmission issues.
- Regular maintenance is very much emphasized; if you don’t, it could cost you a fortune in repairs.
Fuel Economy:
- While city driving, be prepared for low MPG.
- You can expect 11–12 mpg from a 4.2L XKR driving around town.
Maintenance Cost:
- Maintenance for Jags of this era tends to be higher than average.One forum user stated that it could cost around £2,000 in depreciation for a £20-25k car per year, but maintenance and repairs can also be costly.
Specialist Repairs:
- Since supercharger and suspension components are highly specialized, owners tend to rely on Jaguar specialists (such as Paramount Performance or Powerhouse in the UK) rather than general mechanics.
What to Look For When Shopping
Focusing on the following will help in your search for the XKR Convertible:
- Supercharger Check: Remove the drive belt and inspect the upper pulley for signs of looseness and clunking, which suggest supercharger bearing issues.
- Service History: Verify that the car has a complete service history, with a particular focus on coolant system servicing (for the 5.0L engine water pumps) and transmission fluid changes.
- Model Year: Budget permitting, aim for a 2009 or newer XKR to access the 5.0L engine and improved differential, steering clear of water pump issues, or confirming it has been replaced.
- Mileage: If properly maintained, high mileage should not be a deal-breaker.
- A listing mentioned a 2009 convertible with 215,000 miles, indicating that it can “rack up the miles without complaint” if cared for.
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