I was debating if I should get transition to something more "aggressive". GT3, new Viper or Gallardo. But I'm now on my way back from the Jaguar Racing Academy and that made me re-appreciate her virtues. But there still remain more fun to drive alternatives.

I recalled that there is a good deal on a XKR-S at my local dealer. Have not driven it but was wondering if there is any noticeable difference in the drive?

I'm thinking it likely doesn't feel like a totally different car. Still ultra refined but with a little more noise. It has the same steering rack correct? As far as suspension since mine is on H&R that may not be more stiff either unless the actual shocks are different.

So are we really just looking at:

1) glorious noise - which can be duplicated with a Miltek for $2k which I've heard in person

2) 40 more hp - I'm not exactly longing for more power

3) Carbon fiber bits - cool front but would have preferred the more organic ducktail. Don't view these as worth the extra $30k

4) Rare - Not a factor as I'm asking about behind the wheel

So I guess unless the steering is different and it handles different from a fiscal standpoint I may be better off buying a Miltek and calling it a day no?

XKR-S owners or those that have driven one please chime in...

 

If you see Jesus as you enter the corner then turn ---- the S could be for you. Or me if your feeling generous ;~)

 

I went to r academy in Vegas recently and I also have a much better appreciation for my jag. I was very impressed with the performance of the Xkr on the track.
Comparing the Xkr and Xkr-s
Power- although there is only a 40 hp difference- I feels like more. Probably due to the increased torque and increased area under the hp - rpm curve

Handling- the RS definitely has a stiffer suspension and less body roll. I think there are also other changes than just springs (active differential, etc). The RS has more of a tendency to oversteer (probably due to the increased power). I didn't notice a big difference in the steering between the 2 cars. The RS has larger diameter brake rotors, but I thought the Xkr had great stopping ability with no fade

The exhaust in the RS is the best of any production car in my opinion

Interior - one of the xkr's I drove had the sport seats (same as RS), and they are much more supportive than the standard seat. However, they are much firmer and a little narrower, so they are not as comfortable for long trips

Exterior -I really like the exterior upgrades of the RS- carbon fiber splitter and spoiler, side skirts, dark grey 20 in rims, and lowered stance

Both Xkr and Xkr-s are amazing cars- for me, the upgrades in performance and looks justified the extra $$ to buy the RS.

Good luck with your decision- its a win-win

 

I have no first hand experience with the S version, but if memory serves, I recall Randy Pobst testing one and considering whether the suspension changes would net an improvement in handling on the track over the XKR.

I know that my own track experience makes me question whether stiffer or short springs would help or hinder, or how recalibrating the electronic absorber valving could improve handling as it seems to be truly dialed in for balancing the car at the absolute limits of tire adhesion already. I think any answer could come down to what track you're on, type and condition of asphalt, tire choice, or even driver style, preference, or experience.

I'm used to sports cars feeling a little "light" at some point anywhere from 100-120 mph. That's because they suffer from aerodynamic lift at stock ride height, and some even when slightly lowered. I've also experienced the improvement when aero improvements are made to them. So I expect that the XKR-S would be superior with its slightly lower height and aero bits, but then again the stock XKR is dead steady and confidence inspiring going at just over 140 mph and approaching a corner. Would 150+ feel lacking...I don't know any track where I could find out.

I've found the XKR has fantastic brakes, but I believe the XKR-S is supposed to have even more capable brakes. My driving style on track is to literally stand on the brakes at the last moment to minimize lap times, and then trail brake deep into the corners where that is possible. They have never had a hint of fade, however I have very slight pedal pulsation, which is likely an indication that the rotors have warped slightly from excessive heat. Adding some ducting to direct more air to the brakes would be the solution, or even a change of pads, but I'll likely just adjust my braking style slightly instead. Maybe the XKR-S brakes wouldn't warp under demanding track use.

XKR-S seats are more aggressively bolstered which should be even better, and the extra 40 hp is definitely a plus. The wider rear tires at 295 vs 285 should be incrementally better, and may even be necessary for balanced handling at the limits depending on how the suspension changes affect dynamics, and to handle the extra 40 hp. Stlying is always subjective, but the rear wing is definitely designed to be functional at speed, and may also be necessary to balance the rear with any improvements they've made to front end downforce.

So I think the check list would indicate that the XKR-S should be slightly superior overall in performance, but you will definitely need the place and skill to appreciate it...and hopefully that won't be on public roads!

Bruce

 

Drove an S last week. While I loved the seats there definitely was not really a difference. Car felt just like mine so would have hard time justifying $30k more. The extra noise is much better outside the vehicle. Otherwise, not much louder than my Mina from behind the wheel. Cool car, but I guess the moral of the story is that it wasn't much cooler than the already very cool XKR!

 

You wouldn't have been able to appreciate most of the subtle improvements during your street drive...which might be the point your making. I expect pushing hard on the track would make many of the differences more noticable, and I'd really like to see a back to back comparison between the two on the track.

Bruce