Hi guys, I've been an auto enthusiast for a good number of years and have been a member of various auto forums. So I know there could be some who would lose patience with me and tell me to do my own homework, or "have I heard of a search button"

That being said. I have to surf from my iPhone most of the time now, and that makes mulling through lots of info very hard.

Questions: I'm looking for a coupe XKR or XK8(I don't know what the difference is)1996-2006 gen. Does this only come with auto? Is there a manual mode? Paddle shifters or something? Also I like the idea of 370-390 hp. I assume that is their top engine gaining power over the generation.
Should I go for an 06 as I assume most bugs have been fixed by then? What would the car I describe set me back? I'm willing to fly anywhere in US to get it. Thanks for you patience.

 

The DIY sticky at the top of the main page has a section on what to look for in these models.

All the XK8/R models were automatic only and no paddle shifts. They do have a "shifter" on the J-gate that allows some control over shifts, as well as a Sport mode that alters shift programming.

I believe all the 4.2L XKR models are 390 hp.

Yes, most of the bugs were worked out by the 2005-2006 years, although some members of this forum may have comments on that. Transmissions changed to 6-speeds on the 4.2L if I remember correctly.

 

Typically the best buy will be a well maintained, low mileage of whichever model you like. The XKR is the supercharged version of the XK8. More complex under the hood (higher maintenance and repair) but more power as well. The final year of any given production run is usually a good place to find extra options as the factory was wanting to empty the parts bins...

 

I think the mid year 2002 and newer are good bets. That's when they changed the tensioners to a better version. The 04 and newer have the best look IMO since they beefed up the lower half with a deeper front bumper and side skirts and "fatter" rear.
I've noticed the 04 and newer typically run about 5-10.000.00 more than the previous models. I went with 02 mainly due to price.
Coupes are harder to find in USA since only about 1/3 or less were actually shipped here. Convertibles are much more prevelant. So expect to pay a bit more for a coupe. At least that's what I've found in the south east USA.

 

Thanks for the input guys. I'll be back with more questions I'm sure as I get farther along in the process