So how much trouble would it be to convert a non-supercharged X351 to supercharged. Seems like it would just be a matter of adding supercharger, ECU, mass-air flow sensor (or equivalent), possibly fuel pump and injectors, maybe FPR. I'm assuming the engines are identical, no lower compression on the supercharger or different cams. Or is there an aftermarket kit available? Doesn't matter what kind of forced induction, super or turbo. Thanks.

 

Your assumptions aren't correct. Just sell and buy the SC car.

 

The non-supercharged engine is around 11:1 compression vs 9:1 for the boosted version.

 

Cam shafts are different too. The NA V8 is not upgradable as the heads are different, cooling system, intercoolers etc. etc. etc. Check out ECU Tuning Group @ http://ecutuninggroup.com/model/jaguar/ they have a tune for your engine.

 

What he said

 

Ok thanks. Just seems like an additional 30K is a lot to spend for the supercharged XJ. Seems I could buy the parts I need for 10k (ECU, supercharger, heads, cams, intercooler, etc) and pay 4k-5k for labor. As long as the heads and block are the same. Thanks for the comments.

 

That is bad news , I was looking for a SC and ended up buying the N/A. Plenty of power most of the time, but I crave a little more.
Had been wondering about a SC update at some point, looks like that's not an option

 

In my humble opinion, the $30,000 difference for SC over NA may be a bit of an overestimation. Last year in shopping for 2012's (in late 2014 or only two years after the car was new), we found the price difference to be no more than $10,000, supercharged vs NA. Considering pre-owned, you may get what you want for less than half of that $30,000 figure. Good luck.

 

what he said

 

This is true. I have been looking around a bit and found that 10-15k extra is the norm. Just going to be patient and save a bit more for the down payment, keep my monthly payments the same. I wish that the sellers on AutoTrader knew if their vehicles had the Illumination Package and listed it in their ads. I believe it was an option starting in 2012.

 

Jake,
These cars are rare, and trying to find "the one" used in the colors and trim and all of the options and miles you want will drive you crazy. It's like finding a needle in a haystack. And that's time spent not driving your dream car.

Maybe that explains your forum name, after looking for so long.

Lack of the illumination package wasn't a deal breaker for me.

Life is full of compromises. 4 out of 5 ain't bad. It's the time behind the wheel that counts. The road is short and hazardous so enjoy the ride in your XJ. You only get one trip.

Good luck finding your XJ.

Stuart

 

Almost, with very few exceptions any engine could be supercharged or turbocharged. Heads can be changed. Pistons could be changed, anything can be changed down to the serialized block!

The question would be if the value is worth the cost to the owner.

And of course that takes into consideration that you could increase usable power out of your NA engine, with little negative impact to it's health, with other available mods and upgrades.

Performance maps, exhaust and intake changes; even a nitrous oxide kit could be added and if used cautiously could give what you want...

But IMO, the 2012 5.0L NA Jag with a comp ratio of 11.5:1 is a beautiful thing as it is... And being my wife's vehicle, it's got plenty of power.

Happy ( and fast) trails.

 

I still think you should check out the ECU Tuning Group as the tune they have for the V8 NA would probably give you more than 50hp for only a thousand dollars. Give them a call they can tell you more specifics and I believe they are an advertising sponsor to the forum. if all your looking for is more performance and you like what you have what can hurt if you give them a call.

 

It's probably possible to supercharge the NA engine for more power, but I guess trying to get to the 500HP of the Supersport would involve some stresses that the NA engine isn't ready for. Plus there's the gearbox, brakes, suspension etc that are all matched in the 500HP factory car that you'd need to think about in your upgrade path.

Selling the NA car and buying a factory SC car may not be the cheapest way forward, but once you've factored in labour (including yours) and heartache, it's probably the most cost-efficient way of getting to the car you're looking for.

 

Factor in the resale value and it becomes a no brainer.

Nobody is going to want a Jag project. No dealer is going to work on it and they are going to blame you for any issues.

Sell your car and get a SC

 

I agree with your statement.

 

So, we're agreed? We think this isn't a terribly good idea?!

 

We see "eye-to-eye" on this one.