In the very near future, I will be signing papers on an XJR. My question is this: What are the inherant advantages/disadvantages of the 2002 model year as compared to the 2001?
Both cars that I am looking at seem to be in pristine condition, with low miles. Are there any specific things that I should check on either one? I have read all posts about the "typical" 98-03 issues, but just wanted specifics on these two models.
Thanks for your help!
Nick

 

I've owned both and it's marginal - the steel liner engine is in both, but the metal tensioners are fitted to the 02' car, (IF it's got an engine manufactured after August 18/01), which saves a job to do. The 01' may have had the tensioner update, so it's something to check.

Both have the updated water-pumps, throttle body/cruise control systems too.

The thing is, I'm chatting about UK model years, not USA. I understand from this board, that the USA cars model years are 1 year behind, making them 00/01 (to me) - I'd need that fact confirming by one of our learned USA brothers before I can go into more detail.

Generally, later is better, all things equal.

 

I'm not sure if the 2001 has the CAT's suspension.

And the early 2001's may still have the water pump issue. The MB transmission was updated around 2000 -- so that would be the biggest concern.

 

The US MY 02, XJ8 NA, built after the end of August, not only has metal tensioners, but a Morse style primary chain. I am not absolutely sure that the SC engine has the chain change, nor when it happened, but I believe the silent chain style primary chains is an important improvement.

 

Is it known when the water pump changed? My XJ8 was assembled April 01.

 

All great information! Thank you!