I am contemplating on a search for a Jaguar XJ and am looking for the pros and cons on the XJ6 vs XJ8. I like the straight 6 config but not sure what to look for mechanicaly. Any help?

 

I'm assuming you are considering MY 95-97 vs. 98-03?

Read the FAQ's and sticky's on both the X300 and X308 forums. Here is a fairly extensive list of the recurring faults on the 6 (note most are not related to the engine)
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=46769

Timing chain tensioners, water pumps and thermostats caused some fairly well-documented problems in the early V-8's. Also, the nikasil cyl lining didn't get on very well with sulphur in the fuel (no longer available) or with overheating.

If you stray into the 04's you have air suspension issues to consider. Take a while to surf the forums of the models you are interested in and you'll soon conclude what's right for you. Don't let it discourage you though, remember...most of us come here to discuss problems we experience and how to solve them.

Happy Hunting and good luck

 

I have to admit that I was a litte worried that the power/torque in the "Six" would not be enough.

I've had several MB V8's and believe me: The "Six" is quite fast and powerful. It isn't a sports car, but still the pleasure of driving it is huge.

I haven't tried any of the Jag V8's (yet) so I cannot give any advice to which is the better.

I do however feel very pleased with the I/R6 (AJ16).

Good luck in your search for a nice car!

CatoBT

 

I currently have a '82 MB w123 300D turbo. I have been with this vehicle since '02 have am curious about a '95-'97 XJ6. I am mostly interested in the engine/driveline issues to be aware of and any other problem area that usually need to be aware of. I do my own mechanical work and am not afraid to do the work. I am attracted to the body style of the X300 series.

 

The 4.0 six cylinder engine is rugged and long lasting. Neither the engine nor the ZF transmission used behind it are likely to give any trouble. There are some cases of timing chain tensioner issues over 100k miles but that's about it.

Differentials, though, are a different story. I won't say the diffs are a chronic failure point but there's certainly some history of problems.

Rear wheel bearings are also known to give trouble but that's not a big deal in the grand scheme of things.

Cheers
DD

 

with only 50hp difference, 2 less cylinders, and SAME body?....easy get a six! ;-)

 

On a purely subjective note......

I love V8 engines but I've always felt that "big inline sixes" and "Jaguars" just sorta go hand-in-hand. A little nod to the past, I guess.

Cheers
DD

 

i prefer the aj16 strait 6 4.0 ltr and they do go very well good luck in your search

 

Buy the supercharged XJR.......you can get one faily inexpensively right now, it runs like a Jaguar should, and you will love it !!! My only caution would be to say to try and find one with the tensioner upgrade already done, although I know of one with over 120,000 miles so far with no problems. I did the tensioners on mine as a precautionary measure.