Don't beat me up I know it's been beat to death but I'm trying to get my thread post count up
Are there any bolt ons that are worth the money. I'm happy with the power of my 03 XK8 convertible but as an x drag racer,well we always want more.
Been looking around at bolt ons and found headers ( $ ouch) complete exhaust,cold air intake,even NOS. Is any of it worth the dollars.
I would like it to be a bit louder.

 

You can do some searching and find multiple threads on both topics.
Sadly, though there are some relatively inexpensive and simple methods to significantly increase the HP of an XKR there are no such options for the XK8, and, believe me, people have looked. That is not to say that you cannot get a little more HP and performance, but nothing really impressive.

As for a throaty exhaust, there are multiple threads and approaches to that too but don't expect any significant HP gain.

 

I've been looking also and it's a lot of money for 20HP. I'm hoping the Mina rear muffler delete sound good. And the nice intake sound of their intake. About $500.00 and done.
I'm surprised that the rear is only 306s that sounds like 1970 stuff what with a overdrive six speed. MPG will fall off but for me it's not a daily driver and the extra gearing would be fun.

 

Unfortunately you can't change the rear gear without also reprogramming the transmission controller, and for the ZF 6spd, no one can do it.

 

The answer is buy a XKR if you want more power. Also, be prepared to have the transmission rebuilt if you indulge in stop light activities. The ZF transmission is marginal with the stock power of the XK8.

 

Sorry, responded too fast again. The transmission in the 4.2 is not marginal.

 

Well just came back from a short ride. I must say the quiet quickness is growing on me. Jezz held it in 2nd floored it at around 3000 held it to red line. It's not going to break any records but damn I love the feel of HP in the higher RPMs
As I have said I am an ex drag racer and I ride. The HP is by no means scary, but I really love driving this thing.