Okay, there's two other threads on here that ask general questions about buying an early type R (03-04).

My question would be, what are the specific differences between the early(03-04) and the later (05-08) type R's. So far, I know:

-05 up have interior and exterior improvements
-06 has VVT engine with slightly more power
-06 up probably has a different pcm programing to handle the vvt

What are the main fixes that I need to look for in a 03 or 04 car?

The prices differ by about 25% (approx $20k for a newer one, $15k for an older one) so I need to determine if buying a newer one is worth it versus an older one with the fixes done. Most that I've seen for sale are 2003's. The hp difference between the newer and the older cars is minimal in my eyes since I'll probably toss a pulley, exhaust and k & n on there, minimum.

Also, I know that some tuning of the pcm can be done on the older cars. Can the tuners such as Eurotoys also tune the newer cars?

Sorry, quite a few questions, but I'm in the market to replace my 2002 4.0. Thanks in advance!

 

I'll try to pull some of the quotes from other members. Here's some info from Bull27 off a different similar thread:

I would recommend getting an 05+ STR considering the interior and exterior updates were done and arguably most of the bugs were fixed. If you really cannot find an 05+ in your price range, make sure you get one with a complete service record history and possibly an aftermarket warranty.

Also, make sure the tires are in good shape, they are NOT cheap and cannot be rotated due to the staggered fitament.

 

What do you mean "fixes"?

Forget the K&N. See the many posts about performance.

 

from Leedsman:

Frankly, an '03 S-type is too old; I don't mean mileage here, I mean reliability and freedom from expensive updates. An '06 would be better, if costlier. If you absolutely HAVE to consider the older model, find out if the owner has proof that all the updates have been done, and that it's been maintained properly with bills as provenance. If it's a dealer purchase, look for a cast-iron warranty for as long as you can get -- if it's a Jaguar specialist, so much the better.

 

No offence, but he is no expert on the S-Type let alone the STR. Ignore that stuff.

 

The biggest difference for me was in the reliability and repair ratings. In 2005 Jaguar was rated in the top 3 manufactures in the world. Lexus, Cadillac and then Jag. The new XF is considerably lower because it's a new model. Jaguar really got very good a building S Types from 2005 to 2008. I would have liked the 2006 for the VVT and the Bluetooth. Try to find a car that has the ACM (IPOD interface) and the Bluetooth. Less important would be Jaguar "Voice" and the satellite radio option. I really find the satellite radio to look stuck on and not well thought out or integrated into the car. Rear park sensors are standard and I really like the front optional ones my car has!!
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I too vote for a 2005+ based solely on looks alone, it feels as they refined it perfectly by that point IMO.

Again by that point most of the serious issues, IE Trans lurch, were worked and they were generally very solid cars.

 

The STR didn't change looks much. The lurch still affects 2005+ cars, as people keep saying.

 

Ok, so not to hijack a thread, here is my input...While many may think there is a great difference between the 03 and 05, it was only cosmetic. The R did get a tuning change for 06. Also, in 05 the Brembo Brakes were dropped. So, the R really had the bugs worked out from the get go...If it was my purchase I would go for the lowest mileage, best warranty coverage car I could afford. And don't forget a service history....

Now for the reason I quoted JagV8....I just noticed your location as Yorkshire, England....I had no idea..I would have thought you were from the other side of the pond like me...
Too Cool!!!

 

I couldn't agree more. I found my 07 with 7k, the remaining factory warranty and it was Jaguar Select certified. I do think that IS the most important part when owning a Jaguar.

As for Cosmetics maybe so but for me the rear end redesign makes a world of difference but that's just my opinion and we all know what that's worth.

 

I assume you're talking about the "short-ram" k & n intake from mina gallery. I mean repalcing the paper filter as well with a k & n drop-in panel filter should be ok, right?

 

By ecky-thump!

 

I think the short ones take in hot engine bay air, so are bad.

If the drop-in ones need oiling, this has been covered before and is a REALLY bad idea.

But the MOST important thing - also covered before - is that the STR does not have trouble breathing at the front!! So you can't gain HP that way.

 

Hi Rob,

Sounds more Lancs than Yorks, but near enough lol

John

 

I entertained that idea once myself...Big no no! Some people have used them and had good luck...Basically it puts the throttle body at risk to get oil residue in it..Not a good thing! Read up on throttle body issues in this forum..I have been lucky in that I haven't had any issues with my throttle body and I'm at 60k. If the slightest thing goes wrong with it expect to shell out big money to replace. To me it wasn't worth the risk.

 

Thanks, Jagv8 and JOsworth for your responses. I think I should concentrate on the back end.

 

Or the pulley!

With more $$$, a twin-screw.

 

Who? Its just one guy's opinion.

 

Just a note: The STR lost the Brembo brakes for 2006 and up. The Brembo's are superior but the difference on the street is not that big. So it is MUCH cheaper to service the 2006 and up STR brakes because of this.
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Do the brakes yourself and save the money. My 2003 has been perfect since day one. Had to change the coolant expansion tank and that's it. Tranny lurch is minimal and doesn't bother me. I am slowly making improvements to the car that will erase any possible improvements found in later models.

Get the lowest mileage, best condition car you can with the money you have. Replace OEM parts with high quality after market and your car will bring you years of joy.