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In Reply to: Opinion requested--new car purchase posted by Sue on February 28, 2002 at 14:19:50:
There is something special about Jaguars and the XKR in particular. It draws up emotion. There is a certain passion. Of course there are most certainly other vehicles on the road that are faster, but not many, and most are edgy Italian super racers, or stoic Teutonic offerings. The Jag is something different, something a bit more dignified, and quite a bit more rare to be seen, and be seen you will. The XKR has the graceful lines, that cause many to swing their heads around and gawk openly, you may be able to read the lips of many a driver, “Jesus”, and “Wow” are quite common. A Bimmer is nothing more than one of the herd, and Porsche, has yet another stigma attached, and an image I did not care to exude.
The exhaust note is muted, not at all like the brawny ham fist of American iron. Nor the high-strung growl of the Porsche, just enough to let you know you have a purring cat waiting to pounce. Under acceleration, should you dare to push the accelerator down more than a inch, is rewarded with a strong push back into the creamy leather, and the whine of the supercharger, and what a glorious noise that is. More of the sound of a jet engine, than a car engine is how I describe it. Most people that pull up next to me, know the Jag is quick, they just drop their jaws at how quick.
The louvers on the bonnet swirl heat waves, and mirages at stop lights, a sight that you won’t get on many cars. The permanent grin is another factor of the whole experience. Knowing that at any time, you are in control of the road, as the salesman stated, “With a XKR you can put it anywhere you like”. Referring to passing, and lane changes. The Jag is fairly nimble for such a heavy beast. My leather covered rocket, as I sometimes think of it.
There is not much more you could ask for in luxury and amenities, and of course there are no options. There is no urge with me to apply “accessories” to this car. I bought it because it was finished. There was no need to add anything from the aftermarket.
There are few downsides to a XKR, but to be fair and candid, they must be told.
The XKR is snug; the back seat is not for humans. The roofline is very low, so if you are especially tall in the body, you are not going to fit. I just barely make it, and I am just 6 foot tall. The XKR does not get good mileage. Count on twelve miles a gallon or less for your first few weeks, and then up to sixteen miles a gallon is possible. Insurance can be oppressive. Practically is marginal. Do not buy this car if you have children that are of age to drive, and live at home. Extra caution must be observed in rain, and forget about snow. When you have 380 pound feet of torque available at just 2500 RPMs the wheels spin easy, even with all the electronic assists and traction control measures turned on. I have not even dared to turn them off.
Oh, and mine is not for sale. So there Bimmer / Mercedes-Chrysler boys. Not everyone is selling his or her Jag.
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