50/50 as to whether I post this in the X308 section or X350 section as it involves both. I flipped a coin.

We have a 2001 XJ8 that was our first Jaguar. We felt that it was a very powerful quick car. We eventually bought a 2004 XJ8 (x350) and it really seems to be a much faster car!

Is this normal or is there something wrong with my X308? I know the X350 is a tad lighter, and has a little bit more horsepower, but the difference seems more significant than I expected. I have never driven any other X308 than ours, so I have no standard of reference.

Thanks!

 

The gearing is different too. The X350 has a 6 speed.

 

The gears play a big role. The 6hp26 is also a generation newer then the 5hp24 and offers much better performance. At speed the x350 has a much lower drag coefficient then the x308 (.32 vs .37as per Wikipedia). X350 is more modern all around, just not as good looking

 

IIRC, the X350 has very aggressive tip in response as compared to the X308. I remember being irritated that it took such a light touch of the gas pedal to maintain 45 MPH. The X308 is very linear.

I suspect the tip in was Ford's influence.

The true test would be take both to the dragstrip and compare time slips .

-Mike

 

WE have a 2001..........We eventually bought a 2004 XJ8................. sounds like there are two of you and there are 2 cars???

DRAG RACE ANYONE????????????????????????????

bob gauff

 

That's exactly what I was looking for, thanks. That makes sense. For some reason the x308 is every bit as fun to drive, perhaps even more fun because I prefer traditional springs/shocks, but that x350 is a rocket ship.

I have taken the x308 as my daily car and my wife drives the x350. I think each of our cars now "suits" us. Good times...



I just saw the "drag race" post, haha. That possibility is NOT off the table.

 

There's no question the bonded aluminum bodied, 6 speed XJ is a superior car. Hundreds of pounds lighter, an extra gear, makes a faster and smoother ride. The brand new ones aren't even as smooth although much more sporting. I love my 2001 SVDP (low rider retro and all) and hope to never get out of her but she's old tech next to that incredible aluminum chassis.