All non-supercharged.
Now that would be an interesting comparison I think!

Cheers,
Wolfy

 

As much as I adore the x100 and prefer the looks of it to the x150, the truth is, handling wise, the x150 is light years ahead and in the twisties, I think even a supercharged x100 would have difficulties keeping up with a N/A x150 (4.2 or 5.0)

 

4.2 (x100) XKR is about even with the 4.2 (x150) XK N/A, then ya got the (x150) 4.2 XKR whuppin it all over the place. . . Now, the 5.0 N/A (x150) is about even with the 4.2 XKR (x150), then on top of THAT, the 5.0 XKR is whuppin the 4.2 XKR (x150) all over the place.

 

Wolfy,
Although I have the XKR versions of both rather than the naturally aspirtated versions, and as much as I love my 2002 XKR and think it's a more beautiful shape (and I find the interior more unique), there is simply no comparison in the handling and suspension departments of the two generations. The 5.0 L cars (2010+) are so far superior in every category of handling, ability to go over humps, bumps, dips, etc., tautness in steering and ride,...that there really is nothing to compare. The difference is astounding. The newer cars have none of the jiggling of the first gen cars, going over a dip or over a bump doesn't produce the bowl of jello feeling where the whole front suspension shudders and bottoms out. It is solid, absorbent feeling that inspires confidence. And on the road, the ability to attack curves at speed is just amazing in comparison.

The first generation XK/XKR's are wonderful cars, and in many of the physical aspects and even in the cruising abilities where the softer ride and taller tire sidewalls produce a more comfortable cruiser, but handling/suspension crown sits solidly on the newer cars' mantle.

 

I feel my 2000 XKR is like an English Muscle Car. A quick, luxurious, muscle car. My next car will likely be another GT car, but will likely handle better. I'm looking at DB9s, Continental GTs and 2010+ XKRs. I like these old cruisers though!

 

Well said.

I can only add to what others have said so much better. As much as I love the purity of the early XK8 designs, when Jag went aluminum on the XK and with standard adaptive dampers, it was akin to a gorgeous supermodel you had a crush on suddenly farting rainbows and pooping gold.

That's how much better the XK rides... (maybe I said that wrong?)

Aluminum and adaptive suspensions can make an XK with 20" low profile tires feel more comfortable than an XK8 with 17" high side rubber and then tear around cones the next minute better than the XK8 period XKR. It's pretty amazing.

Even more so on the larger XJ sedans. But even the X308 XJR can make a S550 feel like a pig. Jaguar suspension designers have a skill level that borders the magical.