Finding a high-end luxury car at an accessible price often means exploring the used market. For many drivers, this is the most feasible way to experience the prestige of owning a premium vehicle. Fortunately, there are some impressive options available, particularly when considering older models. Surprisingly, several plush sedans from brands like Jaguar can be found for less than the cost of even the most economical new cars, such as the Nissan Versa, which starts at just over $17,000.
Jaguar: A Legacy of Luxury
Jaguar, a distinguished premium car manufacturer based in the UK, is now part of the broader Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) group. The company’s origins trace back to 1922, initially as the Swallow Sidecar Company, before transitioning to manufacturing passenger car bodies under SS Cars in 1935. In 1945, the name was officially changed to Jaguar Cars.
Jaguar boasts a rich history of iconic vehicles, including the XK, E-Type, and XJ220. Contemporary models like the F-Type and F-Pace continue to capture the brand’s commitment to luxury and performance. Looking ahead, Jaguar has made a commitment to becoming an all-electric automaker, with plans to cease the production of all combustion engine cars by early 2024 and transition to an all-electric lineup by 2025. The brand recently unveiled a new identity for its future as an electric luxury automaker.
Founded: September 1935 Founder: Sir William Lyons, SS Cars Headquarters: Coventry, United Kingdom Owned By: Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Current CEO: Adrian Mardell
Jaguar is celebrated globally as a luxury car marque, recognized not only for crafting refined and elegant vehicles but also for producing cars that deliver a dynamic driving experience. Thanks to market depreciation, examples from the early 2000s offer extraordinary value. Buying one of these cars presents tempting opportunities, but it’s also essential to consider the possible drawbacks.
Affordable Luxury Sedans: The XJ and S-Type
When seeking to balance affordability with modern technology, the Jaguar XJ and S-Type models built in the early 2000s stand out. The XJ’s X308 and X350 generations are noteworthy, with the X350 representing a significant technological advancement as Ford guided Jaguar into the 21st century. The S-Type, which debuted in 1999 and had its final production year in 2008, presents attractive options for those looking for a used car at a good price.
The XJ: Luxury and Practicality
For those who want to make a statement on the road, the XJ is an excellent choice. It boasts a larger interior and exterior than the mid-size S-Type. It also offers a wider range of standard features and a more luxurious cabin. The XJ also features less controversial styling, in contrast to the S-Type’s prominent oval grille, which has received mixed reviews over the years. The S-Type is better suited for drivers who need a smaller vehicle and want a car that is easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and those who want to save on running costs.
While both the X308 and X350 XJs were exclusively available with V8 engines, the S-Type was also offered with more economical and lighter V6 engines.
Technological Advancements in Later XJs
For those interested in the XJ, the later X350 generation is often the best option. It features more modern styling with an updated yet stylish cabin and more advanced technology than its predecessors. Mechanically, the X350 XJ represented a major step forward, as it was built with a full aluminum monocoque, making it one of the first mass-produced cars to utilize such a construction. This design made the X350 significantly lighter than the X308 XJ, which used traditional steel foundations.
XJ and S-Type: Key Specifications
Here’s a brief overview of the specifications for these models:
1997-2002 Jaguar XJ X308
Engine: 4.0-liter NA/Supercharged V8 Power: 290-370 hp Torque: 290-387 lb-ft 0-60 MPH: 5.4-6.9 seconds Used Values: $2,848-$6,470
2003-2005 Jaguar XK X350
Engine: 4.2-liter NA/Supercharged V8 Power: 294-390 hp Torque: 303-399 lb-ft 0-60 MPH: 5.1-6.4 seconds Used Values: $4,837-$7,579
The aluminum construction made the car more efficient, especially with an updated 4.2-liter V8 engine available in the US. The lighter weight provided a superior driving experience. Though its classical exterior and interior styling appeal to some, the X308 offers less value than the X350. Multiple trim levels were available, from the entry-level XJ8 with a naturally aspirated V8 to the range-topping XJR, equipped with a supercharged V8.
The S-Type’s Performance Capabilities
The S-Type models produced between 1999 and 2002 were available in the US with either a 3.0-liter V6 or a 4.0-liter V8, both naturally aspirated. Models made after 2002 were fitted with an updated NA 4.2-liter engine, while an “R” version was introduced that same year. The R model featured a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 and performance-focused upgrades such as enhanced brakes and a stiffer suspension. It was designed to rival models like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG.
1999-2008 Jaguar S-Type Specifications
Engine: 3.0L NA V6, 4.0-4.2L NA/Supercharged V8 Power: 235-400 hp Torque: 236-413 lb-ft 0-60 mph: 5.3-7.5 seconds Used Value: $2,654-$6,976
The entry-level V6 cars provide a taste of luxury without excessive fuel consumption. However, the larger engines offer enhanced performance and equipment for a modest increase in cost.
Used Jaguars Offer Bargains
Excellent deals are available on both models. According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), early XJ X350s typically sell for about $5,000, with the top-of-the-line XJR valued at around $6,500 in good condition. Older X308 models are even more affordable, with entry-level options priced between $2,000 and $3,000, and the more powerful “R” variants closer to $5,500.
For the older S-Types with a V6 or a smaller V8 engine, KBB reports that you can expect to spend approximately $3,000 for models with higher mileage, with lower-mileage examples potentially fetching between $6,000 and $10,000. S-Type “R” versions can be more expensive, with models with high mileage selling for about $8,000 on the used market, and lower-mileage cars possibly ranging from $15,000 to $20,000.
Shopping around to find the best deal is always advisable, but it’s important to weigh in Jaguar’s new strategic direction, with its current shift towards EVs. As a result, rare V8-powered models are likely to increase in value. These vehicles are also uncommon in the USA, which means their resale values could be higher than the purchase price, although it would take a few years for market values to accurately reflect this.
Maintenance Costs to Consider
One of the main drawbacks to purchasing a used Jaguar involves the maintenance expenses, as parts for these vehicles tend to be more expensive than those for mainstream brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Honda. Although the later models improved reliability and quality when compared to the pre-Ford era, as the XJ X350 and S-Type received 4.7 and 4.3/5-star reliability ratings from KBB, unexpected issues and potentially hefty repair bills can still occur.
Jaguar XJ X350s typically cost an average of $721 a year to maintain, according to RepairPal. Common issues include the center console cupholder’s tendency to break. While this is mainly a minor inconvenience, the XJ can also experience problems with the timing chain tensioners, which can fail prematurely due to their plastic construction, resulting in significant engine damage. Listen for unusual engine noises, such as a cold start, when looking at a potential XJ. It is always important to verify that the previous owners performed preventative maintenance.
S-Types are slightly less expensive to maintain. RepairPal estimates annual maintenance costs to be around $675. Common issues include premature automatic gearbox failure, which has been reported by numerous S-Type owners, and faulty ignition coils that lead to misfires. Replacing an automatic transmission can be expensive; thus, listen for any indications during your inspection. Modern Jaguars shouldn’t cause significant problems when the vehicle is well cared for and has a good service history. Regular servicing and timely repairs are essential to maintain the vehicle’s dependability.
In conclusion, buying a used Jaguar, especially models from the early 2000s like the XJ and S-Type, can be a smart option for those seeking a luxury experience on a budget. However, prospective buyers should carefully consider the running costs and potential maintenance needs. Weighing the pros and cons, while also factoring in Jaguar’s future direction as it transitions to electric vehicles, will help you determine whether a used Jaguar is the right choice for you.
