Discover the V8 Beast You Can Actually Afford: The Jaguar S-Type R
If you’re an automotive enthusiast with a taste for early-2000s European performance sedans, you might have lusted after the likes of the BMW M5 or the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG. But there's a more exotic, rarer gem in the same league that can be surprisingly affordable on the used car market—meet the Jaguar S-Type R.
A Nod to the Past
The Jaguar S-Type debuted in late 1998, resurrecting a nameplate that had been in hibernation for three decades. Its design was a blend of retro and modern, drawing inspiration from its iconic predecessor with round headlights and a stately front grille, but it took a while for the design to grow on people. While initially criticized for its appearance, the S-Type was praised for its solid build, impressive road manners, and varied engine lineup, especially among British fans.
Raising the Stakes
By 2003, Jaguar decided to up the ante by introducing the high-performance S-Type R, aiming to compete with the likes of the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG. Although it didn't match its German frenemies in sales or outright performance, it quickly earned a cult following as an underrated classic. Fast forward to today, and the S-Type R remains a hidden gem for those who seek a balance of European panache and raw power.
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Supercharged V8 Power
Under the hood lies a 4.2-liter AJ-V8 engine boosted by an Eaton M112 supercharger. Initially outputting an impressive 398 hp and 408 lb-ft of torque, a 2006 update saw minor tweaks pushing it to just over 400 hp. All this power was channelled through a six-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission, offering a thrilling ride despite its somewhat heavy 3,968-pound curb weight.
If the standard S-Type models felt adequately nimble, the S-Type R’s extra horses made it a far more exhilarating machine, capable of going from a refined cruiser to a beastly powerhouse at the slightest prod of the gas pedal.
Chassis and Brakes
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Jaguar didn’t just slap a supercharged engine into the S-Type and call it a day; they fortified the car’s chassis to handle the extra power. The suspension, a praised independent setup with unequal-length wishbones at both ends, got stiffer shocks and springs. Jaguar also fitted the car with its CATS adaptive damping system, adjusting damping settings in real-time for better comfort and control. With larger diameter rotors, the brakes were not just capable of handling the extra oomph but excelled in it, offering strong, reliable stopping power.
Inside the S-Type R
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Luxury wasn’t compromised either. While the S-Type R might look like a sleeper from the outside—with subtle 18-inch wheels and minor R badging—the interior was plush and modern, rivaling the best from Germany. High-quality leather, power-adjustable heated seats, and an electronically adjustable steering column made it a pleasure to drive, while the aging touchscreen infotainment system has modern aftermarket replacements available today, maintaining the car's contemporary appeal.
A Used Car Bargain
With only around 8,000 units produced between 2003 and 2008, nearly half of which were shipped to the US, finding an S-Type R is like stumbling upon a diamond in the rough, but it’s a deal worth chasing. Current prices hover around $13,063 on average, with decent examples available for under $10,000 and mint-condition models rarely exceeding $15,000.
While maintenance costs can be high thanks to its Jaguar badge, many components are built on the common Ford DEW98 platform, making some repairs easier on the wallet. If you maintain it well, this beast can be a reliable companion.
Conclusion: Should You Buy One?
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If you’re in the market for an affordable, high-performance sedan that stands out from the crowd, the Jaguar S-Type R should be on your shortlist. Its luxurious interior, robust V8 engine, and bargain price make it an enticing package. Though maintaining one might cost more than running a typical family sedan, the driving pleasure and exclusivity it offers more than compensate for the higher expenditure.
Even today, its more than 400 hp and the visceral excitement of the supercharged V8 will thrill any driving enthusiast. For a detailed review, check out Too Old Classics' YouTube video below.
