I'm finally going to look at a few s types this weekend, and I was curious which was the better engine. I'm not asking about performance. I want to know which has better longevity. What are major issues associated with each. If your opinion is V8, is it really worth adding 10-15% to the price of the car?

 

A lot depends on how big your budget is! Roughly what are you plannning to spend and what age of car? Oh, and where in the world are you?

 

Two posts....does that mean that he doesn't care?

 

I'm in the Pittsburgh area, but there are very few cars for sale around here. I'm going out of state to find what I want unfortunately. My budget is <=$15k so that puts me in the 03-06 range. I have been searching and doing my research since early summer, and I finally picked the S over the XJ8. Of the 4 cars I'm looking at, there is a 03 3.0 w/ 55k, a 04 4.2 w/ 67k, a 06 3.0 w/ 5?k, and a 03 4.2 w/ 62k. The 3.0s both show less wear for their age/mileage.

 

I've lost touch with prices (and never did look seriously at the 3.0, er, or the 4.2 since I was after an STR) so I hope others will say what they think. I think the 4.2 will be smoother but there are more on here with the 3.0 I believe so maybe more experience to share.

I wish I could recall the company who people have recommended as a good place to get ex-lease cars (as they're said to be in really good condition). You might get a warranty that way, too.

 

I've never driven an S type with the 3.0 engine so cannot compare and didn't consider buying one. I've never seen a car or bike that had too much horsepower.

 

The place I think you are talking about is Texas cars direct. Good selection nice cars and great prices (No I don't work there)
I have owned both a 3.0 and an STR. Some of the issues can be similar like coils. The 3.0 drives very smooth and has more power and giddy up than I expected. Easier to work on the engine for obvious reasons (space)
The 4.2 SC is very quick and surprises allot of other drivers who know nothing about this car. It also gets as good if not better gas mileage than the 3.0 if driven moderatly and at posted speed limits.

 

Here's the thing. A larger motor is usually much less stressed than a smaller one which usually means that it will last longer.....

 

99 out of 100 times I would agree with that statement, but I gotta say, my 3.0 has plenty of power for my normal daily driving and the occasional spirited run. IMO. the 6 speed auto has no problem keeping the motor in the proper power band without causing it undo stress. I think that with proper maintenance the 3.0 can be expected to last every bit as long as the 4.2. Now, this is all opinion as I don't have any experience with long term reliability with either version.

 

MyBlackCat - yes! Thanks, they are who I meant.

 

Our S-Type is my wife's daily driver and the 3.0 is plenty of car for her....

If it were my daily driver, I would want the 4.2....

But I'm happy with the deal I got on our 3.0 last December so I can't complain....

 

I appreciate all the replies. I like the thought of a V8, but I don't "need" all that power. I just want to be sure that 3.0 has enough power. When I take into consideration that I rarely do above 60mph I'm sure it will

 

I've got a 3.0 and it has plenty of power for me. You do have to wind it up a little bit though. Based on my research it appeared to be the more durable of the two due to it being more mature of a design. The other factor is that about 75% of the S-Types have the 3.0 engine so they are a lot easier to find. All other things being equal, they are about $2K-3K cheaper.

 

the v6 is a very good power unit and as you rarely go above 60 it will serve you well but I would go for the V8 (but that's me)as its a very efficient , smooth power house, I hope you get the chance to try them both out then you can decide for yourself

 

I went with the 3.0 because being a smaller engine, it would put a lot less stress on the 6HP26 ZF 6 speed transmission and the rest of the drivetrain. Maintenance costs will likely be slightly lower.

 

it will be only a little less stress and I think you will find the ZF can take it in its stride same goes for cost The V8 is a little more thirsty but if you find one for a good price go for it. Believe me you wont be disappointed with either engine

 

One other things to consider is, depending upon your age and driving record, insurance might be a little less costly with the V6 compared to the V8.

 

Hi,
Both the V6 and V8 are great engines and if properly maintained, both very durable. I went with the V6 because it had plenty of power ( 240 HP, 141 mph), was less costly( $5K difference when new) and more fuel efficient ( best tank of 36+mpg, average of 28mpg). I have had no problems with my engine with 77K miles. In my reading I find the V6 has a better record than the v8, avoiding the nikasil liner problems of the early 4.0L v8 and the cam chain tensioner problems. Test drive both and then decide if you must have the v8. For me, the V6 has been a winner. Good luck in your search and let us know what you finally purchase. The S type is a great car.
best wishes VMV

 

My only regret is not getting the V8. With the newer cars the price difference seems to be less. I've driven both and own a 3.0. With my spirited driving style both cars got the same combined MPG...around 23. The V8 felt better and less "worked" with my driving style. The down side, the V8 cars have a greater chance of being "hot rodded" and not maintained by previous owners. Also, part of the price difference between the two models is the difference in standard equipment. There are more things standard on the V8.

 

^He's got it exactly right.