So I just done a series of repairs that were based on necessity (things worn) and now that I'm done it drives totally different, MUCH better! I'd never realized how well this car is supposed to handle/steer and assumed being only slightly firmer than a Lincoln Town Car was normal, lol.

I'd recommend everyone change the following if you still have factory original parts from 1997-2003 in yours, the difference is profound:

Tie rod ends - steering should be tight and firm, not like a BMW but closer to that than a Lincoln.

Shocks and consumable rubber suspension components - ride will be vastly improved, especially from the rear shocks

Get an alignment that is done to spec, if you can't let go of the steering wheel and drive a hundred+ yards down a straight flat road, the car needs alignment and you are missing out from Jag driving greatness

I also got new tires that were the #1 rated tires for my VDP wheel size (16") on Tire Rack - I can't really feel that difference, but when I originally got the car it had cheep & very worn discount tires and swapping those out was a substantial upgrade in ride quality.

 

+1
I'd also add. Renew all grounding connections.

 

And please don't forget the timing chain issue...

 

Fluid change would be necessary as well...