I am about to replace my camshaft cover gaskets and when looking for parts I noted differences in camshaft covers depending on yes or no variable valve timing.
Judging from my camshaft cover, my car (a 2002 XJR) does not have the opening for the VVT.
Just out of curiousity... why not?

 

The supercharged versions of the X308 do not have variable valve timing as it is not necessary/advantageous on supercharged cars.

 

VVT was added to the 2006 XJR along with updated electronics. So I am sure they would not have added VVT if it did not add an advantage. That engine develops about 10hp more than the pre 2006 version without VVT.

 

Thanks for explaining

 

Yes, probably what I should have said was that when Jaguar (Ford) designed the supercharged version of the X308 they decided that the VVT system was not necessary as its added hp thru increased volumetric efficiency was minor in comparison to the large percentage increase gained from the supercharger.

And some additional info for vivajag...........the early A26 version of the X308 have a two stage VVT system operating through a 30degree inlet camshaft rotation (easily identified by the VVT solenoids being located at the front of the timing cover), and the later A27 versions (1999-on I think) have a continuously variable system (CVVT) which operates through 48 degrees of inlet camshaft rotation (identified by the VVT solenoids located on top of the valve covers).