1996 Jaguar XJR

The Jaguar X300 XJR was in production from 1994 until 1997. Styled in house, it is a front-engine, rear wheel drive saloon range seating five adults.

The X300 XJR was Jaguar’s first foray into supercharging, a move which would eventually revitalise the image of a marque which had become known for sedate luxury saloons. At its base was the X300 XJ saloon – Jaguar’s mid 90s luxury saloon, using supercharger installation co-developed by Eaton as a joint showcase in the 1980s and subsequently refined. The engine in the Jaguar X300 XJR was developed alongside the similar engine for the Aston Martin DB7, but both teams worked separately and the resultant two engines are more different than an initial glance would have you believe. Having expected to sell 1000 across the model’s life, Jaguar sold 1000 XJRs in the first few months of production, and 6547 would eventually be produced. Rarest of all Jaguar X300 XJRs are the 102 factory produced manual transmission cars, though enthusiasts convert automatics using donor XJs as gearbox and pedal box donors in order to enjoy the experience at a reduced price. Original factory manuals are the most desirable and valuable XJRs today, though a well-converted automatic can be worth more than a standard automatic in equivalent condition.

Cars with black leather interiors are most desirable, while turquoise is the most desirable body colour. It’s important however when buying a Jaguar X300 XJR to find a good original example with low miles, plenty of history and no corrosion if you want to make the best returns when you come to sell. Cars with higher mileages can offer better value if well maintained but won’t appreciate to the same level.

No true rival to the Jaguar X300 XJR can match it on price – the E34 BMW M5 was closest in its day, but these fetch considerably more money. Likewise the Mercedes 500E, the hotted-up W124 which can command over three times the value of the equivalent Jag. A Jaguar X308 XJR offers a similar experience without the raw edge.