XK - Coupe vs. Convertible
#22
Coupe vs conv looks are purely subjective with each side lobbying as to why their choice was the right one. The X150 coupe does have an iconic look that definitely screams JAG whenever I look at it however these arguments go the same route Valentine 1 vs escort detectors, Bettery tender plus versus Ctek, which color is better, etc. in that each side tries to defend why they did what they did without convincing the opposing views.
True to coupe has more luggage room than the vert so if your spouse requires ample amount of room for her luggage your decision might be made for you. Top down yes the vert is noisier, maybe even a little bit noisier with the top up than a coupe as well but on a nice evening like last night glancing up at the stars while driving home puts a huge smile on my face. Regarding maintenance to the top its minimal at worst - once a year you should give a light silicon spray to all the hinge mechanisms, wash the top thoroughly then treat it (I use 303 and recommend it highly) as that will keep the top repelling water and dirt and keep it looking good. I looked at several 2007/2008 conv over almost a years time and all the tops looked good so clearly replacement is not a common issue as is the case with many other cars though some have experienced issues with the rear window delaminating.
True to coupe has more luggage room than the vert so if your spouse requires ample amount of room for her luggage your decision might be made for you. Top down yes the vert is noisier, maybe even a little bit noisier with the top up than a coupe as well but on a nice evening like last night glancing up at the stars while driving home puts a huge smile on my face. Regarding maintenance to the top its minimal at worst - once a year you should give a light silicon spray to all the hinge mechanisms, wash the top thoroughly then treat it (I use 303 and recommend it highly) as that will keep the top repelling water and dirt and keep it looking good. I looked at several 2007/2008 conv over almost a years time and all the tops looked good so clearly replacement is not a common issue as is the case with many other cars though some have experienced issues with the rear window delaminating.
#23
Very few people would agree with you on this. The xk coupe is a stunningly beautiful car, particularly because of the greenhouse glass and long roof line. No Plymouth anywhere in the DNA of the xk.
#25
#27
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When I changed over to LED tail lights, and had to remove and re-install the trunk (boot) emergency release handle, I was thinking to myself... "When would I ever have a need to use this? Even if someone jammed me into the trunk and closed the lid, I'd never be able to maneuver myself around to be able to pull it!".
#28
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#29
I too have been living in Florida and top down whether is brutal for 6 month out of the year if not longer. I've already had my share of Verts during my youth and now living in Florida, there is no way I need any more sun beating down on me! I of course chose the Coupe which I personally think is downright gorgeous. As far as sound level, yes you do hear the tires, but you will with the convertible as well. Either choice is a good one. PS....I purchased my 2010 XK Coupe 3 years ago with 4,825 miles on it. I flew to PA and purchased it from the original owner who had health issues. I paid just about half of what he paid a few years before and still got what was basically a new car. Today my car has 8,700 miles and still smells and drives like a new car. Take your time looking and try to get a low mileage car. There are many of them out there. This is not any easy car to sell so you have leverage buying one. Good luck and enjoy! It's a great and fun car.
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Cee Jay (08-06-2016)
#32
When I first saw an XKR with the convertible top down in a Jaguar dealership, I was quickly drawn to the car. The XKR convertible, in my opinion; is simply stunning either with the top up or down.
When weather permits, the top down driving/riding experience is very enjoyable.
I would think geographical location of the owner would have a bearing on which way to go.
Here in southern New Mexico when the temps are extreme 90°+ and sun shining, I find it hard to lower the top. The heat & sun becomes intense. In the fall and spring times, that's when the top goes down.
Either way, both models Coupe or Convertible are stunning indeed.
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When weather permits, the top down driving/riding experience is very enjoyable.
I would think geographical location of the owner would have a bearing on which way to go.
Here in southern New Mexico when the temps are extreme 90°+ and sun shining, I find it hard to lower the top. The heat & sun becomes intense. In the fall and spring times, that's when the top goes down.
Either way, both models Coupe or Convertible are stunning indeed.
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Last edited by richzak; 08-06-2016 at 09:21 AM.
#33
Now don't get me wrong Im a coupe guy
However I would still like to point out the fact with the top down on vert you have a chance of fitting extra people in the rear , good luck trying to do that with your '2+2' coupe as your shoulder will make contact with the headlining making it an extremely uncomfortable neck breaking ride .
However I would still like to point out the fact with the top down on vert you have a chance of fitting extra people in the rear , good luck trying to do that with your '2+2' coupe as your shoulder will make contact with the headlining making it an extremely uncomfortable neck breaking ride .
#34
#36
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My wife is smallish, and she rode back there for 2.5 hours, with the top UP, as we were cruising the highway at 80+ most of the way. She said the first 20 minutes were ok, but it sucked after that. She did it in order to transport something bought, that would only fit in the front seat, back home.
#37
When I had friends visiting from out of town I needed to find a way to fit them both in my vert. I previously always told people that it couldnt be done but I never tried until now and they were insisting to try. What I did was put his wife in the passenger seat and she is 5' 8". We put her husband in the back seat behind the passenger. He is 6'. To gain access we put the top down, moved the passenger seat all the way forward and tilted the back all the way forward. To my surprise he was able to easily and comfortably get into the rear seat. He hooked up his seat belt and we put the front seat back in position then his wife got in. You would think the front seat would need to be all the way up to have any leg room in the rear which would cramp the front passenger. She only had to move it up a little and still had full leg room in front. Amazing. He wasnt cramped either. He just kept his legs to the sides. Away we went doing all the things you would do in an XKR convertible on a summer night and they had a blast. They keep saying that ride was the highlight of their trip and when can they do it again. It was only a 15 minute ride. Not recommending it for long trips.
Last edited by rfr66; 08-06-2016 at 06:52 PM.
#39
#40
Take your time...There are many to choose from. Be particular. These cars don't sell well used and you have the leverage.. Be particular as you should be and you will find the right car. Look for low mileage. Good luck my friend!