Does anyone know how close an XJR comes to a 2nd or 3rd generation Miata in handling? It would obviously have to be the same tires on both.

 

I don't think you could have picked two more completely different cars to compare?
You do understand the XJR is at least 4500 lbs?
The Miata is about 2300-2400 lbs?

There is NO comparison. The Miati is much better handling and the XJR is much faster. But again two massively different machines.
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Yes. Maybe a better question is how much better handling does an X308 XJR have than a regular X308 sedan.

 

lol, the original comparison is impossible.

Compared to the standard x308, there is less body roll and a firmer ride (slightly). You end up with slightly better turn in and responsiveness. Neither is particularly sporty when compared o modern sports sedans, but you can hustle and XJR just fine if you understand that the body is going to move around a bit. The seats having essentially no side support is a bigger issue.

 

Is this a troll question? They are vastly different cars. The MX-5 will be much better at lower speeds and tighter roads due to lower weight and length. The XJ will do better at high speed and bigger roads. Both will need suspension work and brakes, however, the XJ will need vastly more work. It is possible to build sports cars that perform well out of bigger platforms (see BMW M5s, touring track cars and so on) and the XJ will be no different (although the smaller XF or S-Type will do better, I am building one myself on the latter). Lack of a manual, weight and too many luxury features are an issue for the XJ platform. I think, currently, the S-Type, the XF (auto) or a converted XK to a ZF 6 Speed manual are the best options for building a sports car out of a modern Jaguar.

 

I'm reminded of the time, many many moons ago, when I was driving my XJR on some great twisty mountain roads here in the PNW. A WRX pulled in behind me and we diced-it-up for a few miles. Or, rather, I diced-it-up while he nonchalantly remained glued to my bumper. After a few miles he became bored, blew past me and disappeared, and like a pricked balloon. I was exhausted.

An XJR does really well for that type of car. But it isn't lightweight and nimble

A sort time later I did the same with a 7-Series Bimmer.....which was a much closer match and I was able to defend my honor !

Cheers
DD

 

No it isn't a trolling question. I no longer have a Jaguar. I used to have a 03 and later 02 XJR. It has been several years. I now have a 99 and 13 Miata. I never got UHP Summer tires for my XJR's so I don't know their maximum performance in handling. I'm debating whether to get an X300 regular sedan or X308 XJR or regular X308 sedan later this year.

 

I see. I think the XJ will do very well if you rework the suspension, with custom made coilovers, bushings and low profile high performance tyres.

 

The WRX or 7 series are also not light and nimble. With suspension work, you could have competed no problem with those cars using the XJR.

 

I have an NA Miata and a (non-R) XJ8 because they are so different. They're miles apart in handling (Miata>>>Jag) and comfort (Jag>>>Miata). An XJR will have about double the weight of an NA/NB Miata, which on it's own will make sure it simply can't ever come close to Miata handling. Also, it is and feels massive (at least here on European roads) whereas the Miata just makes you feel like you're wearing the car instead of driving it. Just keep one of the Miatas for handling needs!

 

I don't really understand what you're asking or driving at.

Sorry

Cheers
DD

 

I don't think there's an objective definition to light and nimble. It's relative. Compared to my 4500 pound XJR I consider a WRX light and nimble

I was writing from the perspective of what the car was capable of as-built, not from the perspective of what the car might be capable of with modifications.

I'm quite sure I can hustle my TR6 thru really tight mountain roads and hairpin turns more quickly than any Jag I've owned. Being about half the size and 2000 pounds lighter does make a difference...despite the fact that the TR6 has a terrible suspension system and the Jags have a very good one !

Naturally the driver makes a big difference as well. I enjoy fast-ish driving. But I'm not a madman-with-hair-on-fire type

Cheers
DD

 

Compare Pierce Brosnan to Ariana Grande.

Ready?

Go!

 

or a Cadillac Eldorado to an Austin-Healy sprite.