The Jaguar XK - A New Rendition Of Sport And Style
The Jaguar XK, which is a series containing two models- the XK8 and the XKR, has been in production since 1996. When it was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1996, it was set to replace the XJS, as a coupe and a convertible. This model was the first 8 cylinder vehicle ever produced by Jaguar, using a motor known as the AJ-V8. In 1997 the car was available as as a coupe or convertible with a 290 HP engine, or a supercharged version which makes 370 HP. This supercharged model is known as the XKR.
Limited Edition Variants
XKR Silverstone – This car was produced to celebrate Jaguar’s return to F1 racing in 2001. Available with a high performance package (same engine) that featured new transmission, suspension and brakes. Custom Interior and 20 inch wheels were also available.
XKR 100 – In a 100 year anniversary celebration of the founder, 500 of these cars were produced in 2002. Anthracite paint, Recaro seats, 20 inch BBS wheels, Brembo brakes and new interior were all unique to this variant. This car is often referred to as the XKR-R.
XKR Portfolio – These were produced in 2004 as an all convertible production for the US market. 100 models featured red paint, while the other 100 featured blue pant. Both colors had custom interiors and unique paintwork.
XKR 4.2-S – Revealed in 2005, this was to be the last variant of the 1996 design. Unique interior and exterior colors and new designs made this car one of a kind, with everything don to the shifter customized.
XKR-R – A concept car with a 450 HP engine, manual transmission, limited slip differential and very similar to the XKR, this car was never to be produced on the Mk.1 XK chassis.
Engine
Originally the XK was powered by the 4.2L AJ-V8 engine, which put out about 300 Hp. In October of 2006 they introduced a super charged version of the same engine which boosted performance up to 420 HP. For the 2008 model, a 3,5L V8 with 258 HP was used.