Can I get some XKR opinions?

[TurboLexus]

Just wanted to hear the thoughts of others. Sold my modded '91 NSX, after finding nothing I liked I decided to pick up a '97. Thing is though, i've always loved the styling of Jaguar's XK. I found an R model coupe (kinda rare) that i'm interested in picking up, an '02 Blk-Blk....hard to argue with 370hp and 387lbft of tq with nice ride, good handling, and class, not to mention nav, htd seats, rain-sensing wipers and all the other little gadgets. I understand that the car will not be as dead reliable as the NSX...but i'm looking for a daily driver that has a little more luxury and i'm willing to give up some handling as a trade-off. Performance is not an issue, MT tested the car at 5.0 sec 0-60 and 13.50 in the quarter, which is quicker than an NA1 NSX and just behind an NA2. Intake, exhaust, and blower pulley will net over 400hp. Driving an automatic will definitely be less fun, but the car has other virtues. I know you guys are obviously pro-NSX and I understand that an XKR is very different, but i'm strongly considering this. As for reliability, the Nikasil blocks, trans and timing tensioner issues were dealt with in the early years, yet i've heard of a couple other things, i.e. the front wheel bearings last 30-35k, front bottom ball joints last 30-35k, drop links are weak, front calipers can seize, and water pumps and thermostats are a problem. I would purchase additional warranty coverage for peace of mind, but I have to admit that I find some of these issues rediculous. LMK what you guys think or if you 've had some experience with these cars.
- Jon

 

[rickysals]

Drive it, see if you can live with it over the NSX.

I read 100's of posts about people who regret buying something different 6 months later.

I do like the XK though, always had a soft spot for that car.

 

[nsx13]

I was checking out XK8's a few years ago just for kicks (not the R's), and I heard on those that the throttle body has a higher chance of needing replacement if the owner didn't drive the car spiritedly. You may want to check on that because at the time that might have been about $1,500 parts and labor. Beautiful car, I think, timeless lines, very rare and the R just makes it that much better. Just saw this one on eBay for sale in NJ:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4571878254

 

[ChopsJazz]

I think the coupe has one of the sweetest designs on the road today. But you'll only know if it's right for you if you get it and live with it. I picked up a C43 AMG for my wife two years ago, and we loved it, but it was no replacement for the NSX! When it came time to sell we lost a ton of money on it but still had the NSX for kicks.

 

[satan_srv]

I drove an XKR convertible for a week in West Palm Beach a couple years ago. The power was great but in all honesty the thing was a MOOSE. It's 4000+ lbs (conv)...I couldn't get over how heavy it felt and drove. Defintely Lux GT all the way..but after having an NSX I don't think you will like it at all in terms of handling and feel.