I'm confused.

Did the x350 get a face-lift in 2003?

I've been looking at a few, and spotted one that has the silver side fin on the front wing, and has separate XJ and R badges instead of the XJR badge on the left rear. Apparently it's 2003, but I've never seen a 2003 like that.

Is there an overlap in styles?

I'm new here so I might be missing something.

 

It looks like the X350 Super V8 might have side vents which are normally only on the X358.
Official XJ ( X350 & X358 ) Picture Thread - Page 10 - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum
(post #193, post #240)

Although my mate's 2006 x350 super v8 doesn't - but then it's from Japan, and based on VIN I'm no longer sure if it's a Super V8.

 

This one even looks different under the bonnet. There's plastic cover over the top of the engine.

I wonder is it really an XJR.

 

Perfectly normal for the supercharged, based on youtube videos.

 

In 2003? Really?

 

My 2006 XJR has a plastic cover.

 

 

only the 2005\2006 super v8 portfolio has vents. it's the car on the cover of the workshop manual

 

Hi Chris
It's easy enough to check the VIN. Digits 6&7 show the model.
74 = SWB 5 seat VDP/SV8
78 = SWB 4 seat VDP/SV8
82 = LWB 5 seat VDP/SV8
86 = LWB 4 seat VDP/SV8

Mine is an 82.
What is your mate's?

Pete

 

74 - which lists as a VDP/Sovereign but not necessarily an SV8? Could be-dunno.

P.S. Hope ya enjoying ya KFC down there in level 3. I have to put a chair in the driveway to admire my Executive.

 

Hold on a second

So is the car I'm thinking about buying not actually an XJR?

 

Well, the Sovereign / Vanden Plas / Super V8 are supercharged luxury versions. (not sure if all VDP's are supercharged)
The XJR for one thing, has firmer "sports seats" which some have said is uncomfortable. And possibly firmer suspension.

 

Hi Chris,
As you can see, a 74 is a SWB VDP or SV8
No time for takeaways, still working at Christchurch Hospital through lockdown. Queues for KFC, MacD, BQ are down the street apparently.
Here is pic I worked off. 74 is a VDP, but Sovereign are a different (lower) trim level again, codes 87 - 90.
Ex -Japan cars can be tricky. Mine is badged with early style badges as an XJ8 L on the left and SOVEREIGN on the right.
I've also seen photos of an identical car badged the same way. Either they prefer to be discreet about the supercharger or it's some cultural perspective.
My build sheet specifies: No rear badges.

From sunny Oxford..
Pete M