Hi guys, I'm new here. I'm scouting out possible vehicles for my next purchase and the 5spd X-Type is among them. Excuse this newbie question, but which engine generally regarded to be the superior unit-- the 2.5 or the 3.0? Thank you!

 

The 3.0 is generally regarded as the more desirable engine. Another thing you want to look for in the later models is the DSC option. There will be a button between the shifter and center console if it has DSC.

 

Electro, both engines are based off of the same block. So, when it comes to long term performance, both are going to be on equal terms. As for mileage, both are within about a MPG of each other, with the scales leaning towards the 2.5L motor. Both will also give round about same power (obviously the 3.0L motor does make a little more power). Where the difference comes is the 3.0L motor makes lots more power in the lower RPMs where the 2.5L motor needs to be wound up first.

I think you will be happy with both engines. WHile the 3.0L motor is more desireable overall, you will find that it will have a higher price tag too when compared to a car with a 2.5L motor. So, take this advise and use it as you see fit.

 

Thanks for the information! It seems like the engine doesn't make much of a difference then.


One more question and you guys will probably mock me for this but humor me-- is the 'leaping cat' hood ornament delicate and is theft an appreciable problem? I realize this is not exactly an important issue but I worry enough about people messing up my 17 year old Isuzu Rodeo. I know the Lincoln hood ornament on the Town Car is on a spring to make it less liable to break off.

 

The leaper is spring loaded and not delicate at all. It's actually pretty hefty, IMO. But it can certainly be stolen or broken off and you don't want to have to keep replacing them because they're not cheap. Everyone loves the leaper.

As for the engine choice, most people assume they'd rather have the 3.0, so it helps resale for sure.

 

You can also try Arden's removable leapers , they're more expensive than spring ones but theft proof . Fiercespeed is selling Arden's products you can check them

 

Is the DSC a lot more rare in a X-Type? Since i have one with DSC and i have never had it turn on.......but i have really pushed that thing and not been able to get it to turn on...

 

I don't know of a source that tells how many were built with DSC.

DSC is on by default, you have to disable it every start if you don't want it on. If it fails to initialize, it'll tell you on the LCD readout. If you press the button it should also tell you if it's activated or not.

 

I've never seen Nitous Oxide look sooooo good.

 

Electro, I have owned 2 X types - first I had a 2.5 auto, my current X is a 3.0 manual. Honestly I don't think the engine is the big difference maker - I would take the manual trans. over the automatic any day. Don't get me wrong the 3.0 is the quicker of the 2 engines but IMO the auto trans holds back the cat a little to much.

 

i would go for the manual trans the engines are about the same
like thermo said

 

i love my 2.5 with the standard manual trans.

 

Traction control is for pansies!!!!