I loved my S-Type 3.0 V6, could do 100s of miles in it feeling refreshed and with uprated bushes was sporty enough when the road got twisty. I did always hanker for a XJ though. Still, a bargain these days
I had a couple of S-type V8's before having an XJ (x358) diesel. I expected the XJ to be more comfortable but at lower speeds I found the suspension to be a bit harsh, by comparison to the S-type. The handling of the XJ however was really rather extraordinary, partially due to it's lighter, stiffer chassis and partially to it's very precise steering.
S-types are still good buys even in todays car climate. I can hope online and fine some low mileage(For their age) and clean examples for not a lot of money. I would like to have a go at one within the next few years.
@@quinnferguson912, I had the S-type 'R' and it had the the supercharged 4.2 liter V-8, just a pinch under 400 HP out of the box, could it light those tires up, loved it and a real attention getter at the grocery store.
A few years back I bought a rather battered V8 S-type from an 85year old who was giving up driving for a whopping £200😁 It had only 45k on the clock, the interior was immaculate, & it drove beautifully, the body on the other hand was very neglected, plenty of evidence of the old guy''s parking skills! A good weekends work made it look 90 % better, a bit of bumper repairs later, she looked stunning. I still regret selling it, but love the XKR that replaced it.
I'm 34 and have a 10 year old son who's obsessed with me getting a jag ... I'm now looking for one after seeing this Jay 🤣 I think you've just convinced me! My little lucas will rejoice, thank you.
I see your son Is rather cultured Haha! Try one I think you won't regret it. On a sidenote when I was 10 I kept begging my dad to get jag as well but an E-type 🤣
@@Thanos.m quick question! I haven't driven an auto before and we've found a BEAUT in blue in Bexhill next to us in Hastings with low miles (72k on a 09 plate) would it be better to look for a manual? Also thanks so much for the reply It means a lot.
@@jonnywalker3208 in all honesty if you are going for a Jag I would not go for manual I just got a brand new one as courtesy car and it's a manual one of the worst manuals I've driven. The 6 speed auto is super smooth but responsive enough
@@jonnywalker3208 I had a 2.7D for a number of years. It was a great car. I now have a XF S 3.0D (X260) which I’m enjoying as well. Go for the Auto you won’t regret it.
I loved my S type v6 petrol. In 10 years of ownership I had no major issues. Only regular maintenance costs. There was only a little bit of rust on the wheel arches but nothing major. It was easily repairable. I personally don't know why the s type is getting all those bad reviews from automotive journalists. From 2003 onwards the S type is a very, very good car. Design wise, the S type is also quite nice and different looking which in my book is a plus.
Im 18 and I have a 2002 S-Type 3.0 manual and I love it, bought it from my mom for under a grand and want to keep it for as long as possible, its mint, no rust , garage kept
Gotta love that car mate. I'm 24, got the same combo [2004]. It's hands-down one of the easiest cars I have ever seen to fix yourself, really no reason at all to get shafted by "premium" repair bills.
I had S Types for about twelve years. The first was a low mileage 4 litre V8 whose previous owner was a chauffeur driven chairman of a large multinational company based in London and as anticipated it had all the bells and whistles fitted. Unfortunately I wrote it off. The replacement was a two year old STR with 14,000 miles on the clock which I ran for seven / eight years and traded in after having racked up 168,000 miles. The STR was an amazing car and when in sport mode it felt like starship enterprise entering warp drive when you floored the accelerator as it literally hurled itself down the road. Averaged 22 mpg in mixed city / motorway use but could achieve 32 mpg on a motorway run using cruise control. Never had a corrosion issue with mine but it was a daily drive covering high mileages I guess it was getting a proper airing.
I'm lucky enough to own a 3.0l V6 S Type Sport with a manual box and active suspension and I love it. It's much stiffer and sportier than I expected. Practical, so comfortable and never fails to bring a smile to my face.
@@staLkerhu Hey I think im qualified to answer in this case. I have bought and now owned a year 2000 Jaguar s-type 3.0 Manual since november last year. The car still runs ive put about 3000km on it. I bought it for 5500 euros at 89000km. I dont think you will get such a good deal anymore, yet I can tell you a few problems. The engine has a slight misfire between 1500rpm and 1900rpm during acceleration, or during idle when the clutch is engaded and ive driven it for over a hour. I have a airbag light warning everytime after it rained which after its dried up will go away and sporadically appear every 2 weeks or so. So overall for a 23 year old car it still runs great and all those issues will be checked on next month at a dealership. Also the fastest I went was 230kph (I could have gone top speed) so no loss in power. Hope this helps!
My first car was a 2001 S-Type V8 with the 4.0 liter engine. Sold it 3 years later only to buy it back from the same guy 4 years after that. Never selling it again I love the car!
I had an S-Type and my wife still does. We love them, and so do other drivers. The deference he describes isn't true of all Jags (especially XJ's). I've driven them as loaners from my mechanic and people don't care about it. The S-type is a beautiful car. I was driving on the freeway in California, and a woman pulled up alongside and yelled out that is a BEAUTIFUL car. And it is. It is self evident, and people love to just look at it driving by.
Of all the cars I've had over the years including 3 S-Types, 3ltr pet, 2.5 pet and 2.7 diesel. I have to say that if I could have any one of them back in top notch condition, it would be the 2.7 diesel. 56 plate. It was so comfortable, quiet and relaxing to drive over short, or better still, long journeys. It was superb.
I've had a 2.7d for the last 4 years & couldn't agree more. I've had zero breakdowns & had to deal with 1 spot of rust on a wheel arch. When I bought this car, I chose it over an S class Mercedes & I have zero regrets
Once you got one you will never forget it and you’ll always have a strong desire to getting one again . I can confirm it cause that’s what i feeling too.
I found myself chuckling at the fact you were able to talk your dad out of buying a car as a kid. My dad would have fully schooled me on the benefits of his planned purchase; the affordable performance of his 86 Cavalier SRi, the grandeur of his 84 728i, the classic status his 74 Victor VX 4/90 in 1985 or the quirkiness of his Saab 99. Some, an 11 yo me agreed with, others I certainly didn’t 😀
Regarding the Mustang (D2C platform) link to the S-Type, they're more like cousins than direct descendants. There's a bit of an evolutionary fork there to be aware of. The 1999 Jaguar S-Type given model name X200 was based on the Ford DEW and had a lot in common with the Lincoln LS and Thunderbird. It went down like a lead balloon here in the UK though and Jaguar conceded it simply wasn't good enough. It was extensively re-engineered but kept the same body panels and re-emerged in 2002 as the X202 with new suspension, new steering rack, significant revisions to the engines (such that whilst at Wikipedia level they're still AJ25s, AJ30s and AJ-V8s, they're not even close to interchangable) and new gearboxes. The X202 uses all the same suspension castings and bushes as the X350 XJ, X150 XK and of course the XF is mechanically a straight carry-over of the X202 floor pan, suspension* and power trains given a new body and interior. Thus, the D2C Mustang isn't derived from the S-Type, because the S-Type in this video had already gone off some distances from the DEW common ancestor. You'll have to drive the Mustang @JayEmm on Cars to compare the two different developments of the DEW. *One thing about Jaguar is that they rarely keep spring and damper rates standardised. Every engine/body/trim spec combination has spring and damper sets specially chosen for them, so there are numerous parts number for S-Types depending on which engine and trim spec you have, and XFs got new ones again. Even the X-Type has different spring and damper sets depending on saloon or estate body, sport or comfort trim, and FWD or AWD powertrain.
I've had my Stype 2.7D for a few months now, I only brought it becuase i had a tight budget (Less than £2k) and needed a decent motorway car. I absolutely love it! I got the diesel as it will spend most of it time on the motorway, coming from an A6 C6 3.0tdi the Jag is so much better on fuel! Its definitely got under my skin and I'm already planning my next Jag!
@@Giuseppe80271 No unfortunately the crankshaft snapped going down the M5! apparently it's a problem with 2.7, no way of telling, dispite good maintenance it can still happen. I was tempted to keep her and change the engine but I just didn't have the knowledge or space! I covered over 7,000miles in my ownership and loved every mile, no regrets!
@@Giuseppe80271 I've got one, 2007 diesel, automatic, now 168.000 miles, owned since 66.000 miles, serviced it every 9.000 miles, synthetic oil only, gearbox oil changed twice, only non service problems I've had, fuel gauge stopped working, air-conditioning compressor failed, front electric windows, play up occasionally. That's it, averaged MPG 43.5 in my ownership, and mines not got a spot of rust anywhere, had it soaked in wax oiled when i bought it.
Fair review. I had a 3 litre manual for 14 years with few problems and covered 100k miles it her including a drive to North Cyprus and back. Couldn’t find a good replacement so bought an STR which I now treasure.
I just turned 18 and Ive been driving an s type 2.5 for almost a year now I love it to its every bit the wood interior is just perfect yes its slow but I love it I dont think of selling it
Grear review and your comments from 14:25 on the attitude of other drivers are so true! I has a 2.7d S-Type in Jaguar Racing Green. Beautiful car. I only sold it because I got a company car. Later, when I started up as an independent consultant, I ploughed my money into the start up business. I bought an early 3 litre S Type for less than a grand. Great car for long business trips! Nowadays I have the XF and it's brilliant.
JayEmm....people love Jags. I owned a really rare Long Wheelbase series 1 XJ6 in Regency red with natural leather hides (bone colour) . I lived in Bloomsbury Ave, Pymble , Sydney. Australia each morning I needed to make a right hand turn out of Bloomsbury Ave onto Pacific Highway (the absolute main northern road in Sydney) . I owned it 32 years & it's maintenance was paid by my employer, It always looked like it was NEW , not only did people like it , when fellow road users saw it wanting to turn right onto this primary road they stopped/crawled AND WAVED ME OUT, frequently that said same courteous driver would move to my left , tip the horn and in the stop start traffic or at a set of street stop/go lights say how lovely it looked. After 32years I sold it after I bought a 1967 jag mk10 or 420G (british leylands renaming of the 4.2 litre mk10). The Mk10 was even more like new with a mere 52,000mls & just one owner from 1967 thru to 2010. I get the same respect from other road users in the XJ6's big brother mk10.
@@r.k.5031 I could have a new Mercedes S class every second year, OR , TWO , yep 2 of my classic cars paid for, fully. The simple reason was it was simply cheaper. Reason being that back in the mid 1970's when Labor PM Whitlam was illegally sacked, the un-elected incoming Liberal government got a free near 4 year term, but they could not balance the books and in 1977-78 financial year they introduced a number of new taxes out of thin air. One being the luxury car tax on all imported luxury cars this was in addition to the ordinary sales tax on a new car. This new penalizing tax DOUBLED overnight the cost of any decent European import. The very reason I bought the LWB series 1 was because the price of what I then really wanted. a Jaguar 4.2 XJC coupe went from $13,800 to $27,000 OVERNIGHT. So for a business the savings are HUGE, if the staffer drives their own car and has repairs and other operating costs paid for. Plus the drop in deemed value (insured or sales) hits at 5 years of age so the loss if the vehicle is retained for too long for some reason is a mega loss to the owner , equally in private hands an total loss insurance claim can see some owners out of pocket if they have bought the vehicle second hand when coming close to the 5 year age marker, then it's written off just after the5 year point, it will see them only receive half value. and this brings out a second issue, where there may still be finance owing on the car, but insurance may only cover half that amount. What's more that very tax is still in place near 50 years later in November 2024. So, with the price effectively doubled this drastically dropped the amount of high-end sedan car sales, and, to this day, the "show-pony" look at me fraternity will find the cash somewhere for expensive Euro coupes & convertibles but long gone are the days of seeing bulk big 4 door Jaguars, Mercedes, and Rolls Royce sedans. For instance, go back to the 1960's and MORE w100 Mercedes 600 standard wb sedans were imported to Australia than ANY other country like the USA, that's really saying something considering back then when I was at school, we had a mere 7 million Australians, now we have an additional 20 million and growing. So on the roads here now in Australia, you hardly ever see a big new Mercedes S class, and when looking at the last big Jaguars; the X351 XJ's that finished up in 2019 their sales here were microscopic, sadly. Move to Rolls Royce and in the late 1990's more new Silver Seraphs were sold than the following BMW developed cars Phantoms etc. All because of the punitive luxury car import tax almost 50 years of it now and having grown up at two addresses on Sydney's North Shore, the serious old money suburbs, times were different back then the amount of beautiful 4 door luxury sedans, and for example outside of the UK there were MORE Rolls Royce Silver Shadows sold here than in the USA !! Two door convertible and coupe ones too, let alone the "exquisites" like Facel Vega's, Monteverdi's, Ferrari's and similar, you would see more of these top end cars on the road back then in the monied suburbs than standard basic cars, not so now, those suburb demographics have not changed, they are still the old money suburbs, however few would buy an outrageously expensive luxury car to see its value drop to half in 5 years, and then just go into free fall after that. The scant few that buy that sort of car now would be diplomats who pay ZERO tax here in Australia on a car. P.S. the other car that was paid for was my black 1974 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham -Talisman-. A special model made in low quantities for a mere 3 years '74 to '76. The introductory 1974 models were packed with more "goodies" that were cost options, or deleted from the following 2 years. GM Holdens- Australia got around the tax by sending the ordered cars as parts, CKD Kits (completely knocked down) so the car was built in Australia and missed the tax, however the taxman cottoned on to this right fast and blocked that bypass too. In 1982 I bought the Caddy from its aged first owner, this has been my primary car for 40 years, the "goodies" fitted to the '74 models were GM's Air Cushion Restraint System (ACRS) ie, airbags (yes GM invented the airbag), the Maxtrac system which ties together traction control, ABS brakes and self levelling suspension, add to this thick UV light proof glass all around, anti-theft system and serious list of other items so the car is like driving a modern car, with the exception of being a CKD export version it has a "full power" 8.3 litre 500 cubic inch engine with zero power sapping anti-pollution gear on it that was not to come here in Australia until 1986. So acceleration is real and it's delivered in absolute silence.
I have a XJ40 from 1993 and it’s lovely although it's not a daily driver. The main reason is that I can tell people that I drive a Jaaaag hehe There's a video from another youtuber that sums up what I like in Jaguars: “They are beautiful without being ostentatious, they are a display of wealth but without being vulgar, they are fast without being menacing…”
I get let out of junctions pretty much all the time in my S Type. ... I guess because there are hardly any left, and other motorists like seeing a retro looking car ? ... Thanks Mr M for another great unbiased review.
I inherited my late Mother’s 2001 S-Type 4.0 V8 in 2010…in nearly mint condition and with barely 23K on the clock…what a blessing! Great Spec in Sapphire Blue over Ivory…loved it for the next six summers…never Wintered, even by Mom! I sold it to her old best friend (a Jag lover!) at a jaggedly depreciated price ($55K US when new!) …but Mom’s stylish old Jag is living her best life today in retirement in posh Naples, Florida! Mom’s old friend cherishes that gorgeous S-Type to this day..! Hope she enjoys it for many more years…that car was posh, sexy and surprisingly brisk..!
Fair review, I believe these are massively underrated cars. Best in final facelift form, so 54-plate onwards and I think the 3.0v6 is a nice balance for the car. I've owned and dailied nearly all of the rivals in this class with similar engines - e39s & e60s, GS300, GS450h, Mercedes w211 and while the S-type is not a class leader across all aspects, it definitely is a competitor. Brilliant for wafting around in, and in the current market - an absolute steal.
Got my first Jag almost a year ago, and from the experience I've had from driving, to the great experiences we had when dealing with the dealership and service center, the wifey and I will always have a Cat Car in our life. 2018 XE 2.0 diesel. The fuel economy is beyond expectation, and I was shocked when I switched to sport mode and paddle shift. I didn't expect that kind of power from a 4cyl. Took a road trip and was extremely comfortable during 5 days on the road. From Florida to Nebraska, got caught in the last December snowstorm and found that I wasn't cutting a doughnut in a snow covered parking lot with the traction control on. As I tested "Kitty" before hitting the highway to start the trip back to FL, I was really impressed by how quick the system was to regain traction with the slightest slip. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get the rear end to slide more than about 5" before it regained traction. We traveled over 150 miles on the snow covered highway from 60 to around 75mph with no issues, and hitting the Tennessee Smoky Mountains early Sunday morning was a blast as there was little traffic. Pulled into a rest area before the downhill side of the mountains and ran into a couple of youtuber kids with a Camaro and a Subaru. We stuck with them until the valley and had reached low triple digit speeds and the Jag took the curves and switchbacks like it was on rails. That was an awesome trip! Only issues I had on the trip I caused myself. We are from Florida. Temps got down to 14 degrees F in Nebraska. I had to purge the lines for the windshield washer system with a fluid for cold temps. I didn't purge enough of the Florida washer fluid out, so the lines froze and I had to pull off often to wash the windshield. So far, the XE has been a great, fun and affordable daily driver.
The 2005-2014 Mustang was going to use the Jag's DEW98 platform, but it was too expensive. However, since they'd already done part of the engineering, several parts carry over to the Mustang's D2C platform.
S-Type is probably the best deals right now out of any cars, good size, not too expensive, can still find a low mileage, good taken care of. Loved my STR.
I've always loved the look of these. And they are still very much a common sight around town even in 2022. I've seen 3 today alone. And even now, these have aged magnificently imo. However, There is a XJ Vanden Plas south of my city and I am absolutely in love with it. I contemplate going down there to ask how much the guy wants for it.
I owned an S-Type R and I truly miss it, it was a great car to drive. I'd love to own one as a second car again if I could afford to. You're absolutely right about people letting Jaguars out by the way, still happens. I can wait for ages in the Fiat but someone usually lets the Jag out.
Im 19 and brought an s type as my second car best thing i ever did supprisingly cheap to run pennies to buy so much fun to drive and as a bonus looks amazing IMO
Back in 2019 when I was 18 I got my first jag 2003 s type 4.2 N/a v8. I just recently bought another jag 1998 xj8 vdp (the car is older then me). Great pretty cheap luxury cars not comparable to the German “luxury” cars. Older jags have the style and class that newer cars just lack.
The S-Type/LS chassis was used on the S197 Mustang (2005-2014) and I actually owned a 2005 Mustang GT. The major difference was that the Mustang did not enjoy the independent rear suspension that the S-Type enjoyed. I also owned a 2003 S-Type Sport (5-speed manual) - which was a great car, but did succumb to rust. Great review Jay!
I have an elderly neighbour who kept buying old Jags because he loves them so. Sadly, he is a pensioner with limited income, and they are so very needy. They each ended up being disposed of when they had hoovered every last penny from his bank account, even a much beloved XJ12. The latest one is an immaculate older S-class, and it too adorned the forecourt of our rural garage workshop rather more often than maybe it should. Rather than being used as a daily driver these days, it spends much of its time safely snoozing in a shed, being used more selectively. He has something cheap, reliable and rusty (and non-Jag) nowadays for his daily trips to the village shop.
I looked at a 2.7D but ultimately ended up with a Saab and don't particularly regret it. I think as nice as these are the rust bunny will sting you eventually. That being said I'm still upset that my stepdad sold his 2001 XKR to WBAC for £1700 without consulting me because I would have happily given him £1701.
Just reluctantly sold mine today. Got it at 17 and lasted me 8 years. Carnival red with the tan interior. Hopefully I’ll own another at some point when I have the space for extra vehicles
I have this engine in an x350 xj6 and it's a good engine. Ford duratec V6 with Jaguar VVT heads. Not as much fun as a v8 of course, but that's mostly due to the sound. It goes well enough - definitely punching above it's weight for a 3 litre from nearly 20 years ago.
My 2004 3-liter S at 220.000 km has just received new discs and pads and apart from a small oil leak from the engine has not given me any problems what so ever. It is also satifying to hear people ask: "Is it a new car?" Granted they are not familiar with the brand but still. One of the best cars I ever owned...Volvos, SAABs, Alfa-Romeos, MGs, Peugeots, Cadillacs, Chevys, Dodges etc included.. Just a great car. Next car will be an XF before Jaguar goes electric and thus becomes as undesirable as any other. The S stays in the barn though as it will be a future classic.
Excited to watch that video. Same with a Rover 75. Still classy and timeless design. A Android Unit instead of the OG radio and you are good to go. Luxury, cruise control, heated seats, leather, etc. What do you want more?
We owned one (built in 2004) and loved it! Unfortunately it rusted like hell and was beyond repair (due to a corroded rear subframe which was nigh-impossible to replace in Germany, and rust on any other part of the body) after only 14 years and 180.000 km.
I’m thinking of buying an SType! They are a little more expensive in the American used car market and I’ve NEVER had good luck with a Jaguar. But there is a V8 2005 model where I live with 80,000 miles for $6,000.
By 1999 the Italians had learnt the hard way about rust proofing and the cars from the 90s onwards were pretty good with galvanised body panels on many models and the deletion of seams and moisture traps under the cars, so don't play that old record again here and get it right for a change.
Yeah, Fiats of that era or later dont rust more than most other cars of similar vintage. Its the "premium" Italians that got problems for some reason. Also, to some peoples surprise, I have found French cars from 2000s and up to be among the best for rust, bar none.
My first car at 23 was a Jaguar S-Type 2.7 D. The car looked great and drove well, but the ongoing stress over the DPF filter was too much and it just had to go. Every drive started with me praying I didn’t have an amber or even worse, red light appear.
Had a 3.0 V6 a couple of years ago and I absolutely loved it! Drove a 2000 mile road trip with it and it was super comfortable. I did have to replace the side sills that rusted, but funnily enough everything else was in top shape. I added a D2 complete adjustable suspension to it and the ride became absolutely sublime!
Check the facelift V6 for the water feature under the scuttle plate. You have to stop the water filling the spark plug wells and rotting the coils. It's simple enough to make a shield from thin aluminium sheet. Sandwich it between the cross brace and scuttle plate. Got the X200 V8 4.0 which doesn't suffer the problem.
Thank you for another great review - really enjoy the thoughtful perspective on classics. I love my 2005 stype here in Canada where it’s viewed as beautiful and quintessentially British. The negatives of a Ford link now long forgotten.
That ford ownership made this car one of the most reliable car on road. Have this and bmw and bmw is cheap shit crap vs style. Owning both 12 years. Quality is incomparable. Majority think it's the opposite. No. This Jaguar is tank with rubber O ring that failed where on BMW failed everything
I would prefer an XFR, but I really do like the retro look of the S-Type. If you ever come over to Vancouver Island I dare you to try out my Cadillac XTS VSport. A very underrated car if I do say.
V6 3.0 6 speed , a late car with 295000km...nothing to complain about...still very close to new STR, Disc problems, repetedly But my first car lasted 300000km without gearbox nor engine problem ABS sensors did not like heavy rain and pressure cleaning, putting the car in limp mode for a few minutes And some parts were difficult to source in suspensions My second STR is now 200000km, has no other problems than..DISCS Conclusion, we should save as much of these as we can, some as excellent daily drivers, some as vollector s items Best regardd
Excellent video. Love the S-Type, I've had three of them and none gave any troubles. Prices are on the up as you say in your video. If you think the window switches in the S-Type are bad have a look at the XE. They're really awful!
A friend and classmate of mine had a Navy blue XJ6 when we graduated from high school and after the ceremony we went in the jag and drove to some club to celebrate. Gorgeous car, I liked its exterior styling better than even the new mercs of the time, but I had to sit in the middle of the rear seat, and it was SHEER TORTURE for a guy of 6 1" and average weight. Fast forward, my landlady in Washington DC when I was there in summer 2003 on a US NAvy Distinguished Faculty Fellowship from the Office of Naval Research, had an old 1987 British racing green XJ6 which she let me drive one Sat evening as we visited a friend of hers in Maryland. The car had a really tiny gear lever, is what I remember most. It was a rainstorm and we could hardly see in front of our noses. As for the tiny Jag based on the Ford Contour, the X or whatever, it was a BAD JOKE, as was the contour itself. NO THANKS, Ford.
One of my friends dad's had an S type, apparently you had two waiting rooms at the dealership, one for the Ford owners with cheap plastic seats and a separate area for Jag owners with more expensive leather chairs and nicer decor, not sure how true that was though 🤔
You have to remember the rover 75 suspension was designed by bmw. Looks the same suspension arms as 3 series or mini. Bring FWD you can throw them around. Bushes don’t last long though (being bmw)
I was very lucky, about 5 years ago, to purchase a 2005 3.0 S type which had just been re-imported from Japan, where it had led a cosseted salt-free life by one owner and was thus immaculate underneath. I was smitten, and instantly traded in my 2006 SE 3.0 which had higher mileage on the clock. The 05 had just over 18,000 miles on it in 13 years. It now has 37,000 and has been very reliable. I love the retro styling. Indeed it was part of Jaguar's marketing slogan (it's all just a little bit of history repeating). I always feel that, apart from the styling, this would have been Ford's next generation Granada/Scorpio (I had several of these before Jag seduced me). A great car. I'm an 81 y.o. Petrolhead.
Gotta say, after seeing AM DBS Aston's with Hillman Hunter tail lights, Zephyr MkIV Executive light housings, Chrysler indicator stalks, I seriously think the New S type got the best Deal on Wheels with its parts bin. And the chassis base was a real thing of excellence, wasted on the clientele that bought Mustang S197s, Lincoln LS and the last T bird. Ford Australia wanted the S type base for its cars, but each Hairy Arsed Cobber from Aussie that asked Jac Nasser's team when was it gonna be ready.....got defrocked and sent back from Dearborn with no job. Jag made everything good with this frumpy, cute intermediate. It's a great bit of kit. And someone inside the Bowles of Fraud, um, Ford, gave it the best V6's and V8's. Goog Work JayEmm. Five 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟's
I put about 100k on a 2005 3.0 litre Sport. It was a lovely car. I utterly reject any idea that the 5-series had a better interior - my S-Type didn't have plastic backs to the front seats! The S-Type had nice smooth engines and the same ZF 6 speed automatic as the BMWs were using. The S-Type though had a beautiful blend of ride quality (yes, even in Sport guise) and handling balance. That shouldn't be surprising knowing that the XF was the same car rebodied. Indeed the X202 (post 2002) S-Type shares much of its suspension with the X350 XJ, the X150 XK and XKR as well as, of course, the XF. The S-Type Sports seats are very, very comfortable. Mine was very reliable over a long period too. :) Note however that the 1999-2001 X200 S-Type with the urinal shaped dashboard was mechanically a very different car and doesn't drive anywhere near as good as the X202 does. As for rust - I'd rather deal with the simple sills on this than the very creative rust you find on a 5-series or, god forbid, the rust-o-matic E-class. My 3.0 used to manage a genuine 36mpg on long distance runs, but high 20s was normal for my old rural-urban mix commute (with no motorways).
It's been 4 years since I sold my 3.0 Sport S-type after 7 years of ownership.A really good car (no problems at all), but not the way like my favourite e39 530i M-pack, which I think is great in every way.
I always liked these - despite what Clarkson says (I used to encounter JC on my commute, I was in my Williams Mégane Coupe, which he loathed, if we clocked each other we'd just laugh from behind our respective windscreens) - and yet I love the later XJ6's too, true they're not as svelte as their predecessors but still awesome. As someone who now needs a cost effective auto, with cruise (with my disabilities) who wants rid of the devaluation monster etc, my heart says "XJ 6" my head says "S Type". I love Range Rovers but I feel that a Jag is less hassle, and I've looked at X Types, the "Estate" with 4WD is very good, BUT when I've looked at them, even with FSH, mint interior? Rotten as a pear underneath. I've not the time nor health to deal with such. But I did like the Ford parts availability - even to the point of retro fitting folding mirrors to an X Type. Dad and I have always denied ourselves a Jaguar saloon - time is running out on many fronts to own one though. The last saloons? I like them, but they ain't an XJ or an S Type, I've always thought them special. My late oldest uncle, a black sheep, a cad, 90% of the time had a new Jag, grudging admiration, he had a couple of Rollers, but that didn't float my boat, as much as I respected them, the Jag seemed to garner more respect, more love from onlookers than the Roller. So the S Type seems to fit the bill (I'm on a budget but have a newer car to sell, that's currently riding high in price), but ooh, an XJ 6, my heart really aches for that. What to do - sell a newer, reliable car, that's getting harder to drive and buy a risky Jag as my last hurrah?🤔🤔🤔 Or is my heart ruling my head for both the XJ and the S Type? An easy lazy auto V6, the practical choice vs a very good, fun, but less comfortable, more hands on Japanese pocket rocket that's bomb proof reliable and cheap on parts and devaluation has kinda reversed (for now)🤔
Talking about the attitude of other road users, yes I have a beautiful XJ8 x350, in North Queensland Oz there isn't a lot of courtesy on the road but! I have never driven a car that just attracts it! even here!, for some reason even Truckies treat it with respect! On a recent trip to Brisbane, I just loved driving around the "big smoke"!, I only needed to flik the indicator to change lanes and I would immediately most of the time be let in! Amazing! I just don't find that in any other vehicle! What is it???
I had one of these as a courtesy car from my local Jag independent mechanic recently. 3.0 petrol V6 Auto. Nice. It has a lot of the old-world Jag charm and feel, which links back to the feel of the old XJs, particularly in the steering - which isn't particularly self-centering - and the gearbox, which isn't exactly in a hurry. It's a quiet, comfortable, relaxing car. Dynamically it's not good. It feels like a horse & cart compared to an XF, but it doesn't pretend at dynamism - it's very clearly a fatman cruiser. The windscreen is physically further away from the driver than any car I've ever known - and I say that having had E-Class, 5-series and a Jag XF. It's quite bizarre. If you stuck your satnav/phone to it, you'd need a telescope to see it and a pokey-stick to control it. The biggest problem for me was all the bits of Ford in the cabin and on your keyring. They look and feel decidedly below par in this setting. There's no ignoring it. How anyone ever tolerated this in an XK or a DB7 I do not know. I'll stick with my XF, which will (touch wood) go on for a good while yet.
The X type, the S type, and the XF and the XJ for that matter are all great cars and I had all of them throughout the years. However my 2008 XJ was my favorite, second being the XF just because the 5.0 V8 was bad ass but the 3 L engine in the X type and the S type were very reliable. Mine was a manual so it didn’t have some of the bugs that the automatics head, but besides a leaking coolant tank which I got an Amazon for $30 since it is a Ford Part it was a problem free…
I’ve owned an insanely fast S-Type R, suspension and fuel system enhanced. Currently a 2007 S-Type diesel. As much as I loved the R, the diesel still has all the power you could ever need and is a better daily driver.
I had a 2005 manual 2.7 which was a nice place to be, not great on fuel but again 1.7 tons! Rust and DPF brought my ownership to an end. The six speed manual was excellent never drove the auto. I agree with this cars owner that the 75 is better in most areas but not all.
I have a 2004 S-type, VDP, British Racing Green with champagne that I am keeping low miles, garaged and in perfect condition. It is not a car (like my BMW) that see coming and going frequently. I plan to keep it for a very long time especially now since it has 8 cylinders.
If you want one snap one up now while they're still cheap. Every other Jag has gone through a period of being unloved and then emerges as a classic and I think the S Type is no different. It's getting a lot more attention in videos like this one recently and prices are starting to creep up. I love the cars. I'm on my 3rd.
I got a 06 3.0 v6 s type I'm nearing 50 but I could not handle the grandad look, as an ol school bogan I had to foosh it out, i bought a jet black one of course, and max tinted the windows and replaced the ugly jag mags with 19" 10 spoke black covert mags Gets alot of attention now!
Fuel use can be very reasonable. 23 mpg and 27 if careful whilst still hitting UK speed limits. 33 mpg if trying hard ( manual gearbox ). Divide by 1.2 for USA. The motor looks to be 40% Jaguar. Mostly bolt on pieces. A beautiful car with easy upgrades like shocks etc. My friends Seat Leon is less frugal. The S type makes it possible to own a classic. It's nothing like the Ford Taurus ( nearest I know of ). That is more like a kitchen appliance.
Wow. I can safely say, if that had been my dad, the response I would've gotten would probably have sounded a bit like this: "Son, when you can afford to buy your own car, feel free to not buy an XKR." He would've then bought an XKR.
I remember going to Castle Bromwich with university around 2000 to the production line for these. Despite the American Ford underpinnings, Jaguar put a lot of extra development into the chassis. That being said, I'm surprised James likes the steering, I thought it had the typical Jag trait of over-assistance?
A timely video indeed. I'm looking at either a 2004 s type or a 2005 xj8 LWB both with the 4.2l V8 except the xj8 is about 5k AUD more as opposed to the same price that James stated... decisions decisions. Great review as always
I hate people say its a Volvo because of the origin of the chassis and parts. I realy liked mine, my ex wife sold it without permission after divorce. 🤬
I loved my S-Type 3.0 V6, could do 100s of miles in it feeling refreshed and with uprated bushes was sporty enough when the road got twisty. I did always hanker for a XJ though. Still, a bargain these days
I had a couple of S-type V8's before having an XJ (x358) diesel. I expected the XJ to be more comfortable but at lower speeds I found the suspension to be a bit harsh, by comparison to the S-type. The handling of the XJ however was really rather extraordinary, partially due to it's lighter, stiffer chassis and partially to it's very precise steering.
S-types are still good buys even in todays car climate. I can hope online and fine some low mileage(For their age) and clean examples for not a lot of money. I would like to have a go at one within the next few years.
I had the V6, 20 years ago and I loved it! Still one of my favorite cars I ever had. I always felt it was really underrated.
Mine was a 4.2 v8 and I loved it, so comfortable, luxury, and stupid fast. I also straight piped it!!! Sounded amazing
@@quinnferguson912, I had the S-type 'R' and it had the the supercharged 4.2 liter V-8, just a pinch under 400 HP out of the box, could it light those tires up, loved it and a real attention getter at the grocery store.
A few years back I bought a rather battered V8 S-type from an 85year old who was giving up driving for a whopping £200😁
It had only 45k on the clock, the interior was immaculate, & it drove beautifully, the body on the other hand was very neglected, plenty of evidence of the old guy''s parking skills!
A good weekends work made it look 90 % better, a bit of bumper repairs later, she looked stunning. I still regret selling it, but love the XKR that replaced it.
I'm 34 and have a 10 year old son who's obsessed with me getting a jag ... I'm now looking for one after seeing this Jay 🤣 I think you've just convinced me! My little lucas will rejoice, thank you.
I see your son Is rather cultured Haha! Try one I think you won't regret it. On a sidenote when I was 10 I kept begging my dad to get jag as well but an E-type 🤣
@@Thanos.m quick question! I haven't driven an auto before and we've found a BEAUT in blue in Bexhill next to us in Hastings with low miles (72k on a 09 plate) would it be better to look for a manual? Also thanks so much for the reply It means a lot.
@@Thanos.m also before this I was looking at getting an 05/06 civic type R 🤣 things have taken quite a turn!
@@jonnywalker3208 in all honesty if you are going for a Jag I would not go for manual I just got a brand new one as courtesy car and it's a manual one of the worst manuals I've driven. The 6 speed auto is super smooth but responsive enough
@@jonnywalker3208 I had a 2.7D for a number of years. It was a great car. I now have a XF S 3.0D (X260) which I’m enjoying as well. Go for the Auto you won’t regret it.
I loved my S type v6 petrol. In 10 years of ownership I had no major issues. Only regular maintenance costs. There was only a little bit of rust on the wheel arches but nothing major. It was easily repairable. I personally don't know why the s type is getting all those bad reviews from automotive journalists. From 2003 onwards the S type is a very, very good car. Design wise, the S type is also quite nice and different looking which in my book is a plus.
Im 18 and I have a 2002 S-Type 3.0 manual and I love it, bought it from my mom for under a grand and want to keep it for as long as possible, its mint, no rust , garage kept
Gotta love that car mate. I'm 24, got the same combo [2004].
It's hands-down one of the easiest cars I have ever seen to fix yourself, really no reason at all to get shafted by "premium" repair bills.
@Jack Bradford I _think_ Mexico got a manual option but I'm pretty sure the US did not.
@Jack Bradford It's great.
I had S Types for about twelve years. The first was a low mileage 4 litre V8 whose previous owner was a chauffeur driven chairman of a large multinational company based in London and as anticipated it had all the bells and whistles fitted. Unfortunately I wrote it off.
The replacement was a two year old STR with 14,000 miles on the clock which I ran for seven / eight years and traded in after having racked up 168,000 miles. The STR was an amazing car and when in sport mode it felt like starship enterprise entering warp drive when you floored the accelerator as it literally hurled itself down the road. Averaged 22 mpg in mixed city / motorway use but could achieve 32 mpg on a motorway run using cruise control. Never had a corrosion issue with mine but it was a daily drive covering high mileages I guess it was getting a proper airing.
Str?
@@404040h s type r
I'm lucky enough to own a 3.0l V6 S Type Sport with a manual box and active suspension and I love it. It's much stiffer and sportier than I expected. Practical, so comfortable and never fails to bring a smile to my face.
Kind Sir, could you please share a couple things with me? How frequent the issues are with that car, and what was the price range you bought it?
@@staLkerhu Hey I think im qualified to answer in this case. I have bought and now owned a year 2000 Jaguar s-type 3.0 Manual since november last year. The car still runs ive put about 3000km on it. I bought it for 5500 euros at 89000km. I dont think you will get such a good deal anymore, yet I can tell you a few problems. The engine has a slight misfire between 1500rpm and 1900rpm during acceleration, or during idle when the clutch is engaded and ive driven it for over a hour. I have a airbag light warning everytime after it rained which after its dried up will go away and sporadically appear every 2 weeks or so. So overall for a 23 year old car it still runs great and all those issues will be checked on next month at a dealership. Also the fastest I went was 230kph (I could have gone top speed) so no loss in power. Hope this helps!
I too owned an S Type 3.0 ltr Sport manual on a 51 plate, and absolutely loved it. Great to drive and was surprisingly quick
My first car was a 2001 S-Type V8 with the 4.0 liter engine. Sold it 3 years later only to buy it back from the same guy 4 years after that. Never selling it again I love the car!
I had an S-Type and my wife still does. We love them, and so do other drivers. The deference he describes isn't true of all Jags (especially XJ's). I've driven them as loaners from my mechanic and people don't care about it. The S-type is a beautiful car. I was driving on the freeway in California, and a woman pulled up alongside and yelled out that is a BEAUTIFUL car. And it is. It is self evident, and people love to just look at it driving by.
Of all the cars I've had over the years including 3 S-Types, 3ltr pet, 2.5 pet and 2.7 diesel. I have to say that if I could have any one of them back in top notch condition, it would be the 2.7 diesel. 56 plate. It was so comfortable, quiet and relaxing to drive over short, or better still, long journeys. It was superb.
I've had a 2.7d for the last 4 years & couldn't agree more. I've had zero breakdowns & had to deal with 1 spot of rust on a wheel arch.
When I bought this car, I chose it over an S class Mercedes & I have zero regrets
Totally agree
There's one with 45k miles looks immaculate online. Only 3.7k
Once you got one you will never forget it and you’ll always have a strong desire to getting one again . I can confirm it cause that’s what i feeling too.
I found myself chuckling at the fact you were able to talk your dad out of buying a car as a kid. My dad would have fully schooled me on the benefits of his planned purchase; the affordable performance of his 86 Cavalier SRi, the grandeur of his 84 728i, the classic status his 74 Victor VX 4/90 in 1985 or the quirkiness of his Saab 99. Some, an 11 yo me agreed with, others I certainly didn’t 😀
Regarding the Mustang (D2C platform) link to the S-Type, they're more like cousins than direct descendants. There's a bit of an evolutionary fork there to be aware of. The 1999 Jaguar S-Type given model name X200 was based on the Ford DEW and had a lot in common with the Lincoln LS and Thunderbird. It went down like a lead balloon here in the UK though and Jaguar conceded it simply wasn't good enough. It was extensively re-engineered but kept the same body panels and re-emerged in 2002 as the X202 with new suspension, new steering rack, significant revisions to the engines (such that whilst at Wikipedia level they're still AJ25s, AJ30s and AJ-V8s, they're not even close to interchangable) and new gearboxes. The X202 uses all the same suspension castings and bushes as the X350 XJ, X150 XK and of course the XF is mechanically a straight carry-over of the X202 floor pan, suspension* and power trains given a new body and interior. Thus, the D2C Mustang isn't derived from the S-Type, because the S-Type in this video had already gone off some distances from the DEW common ancestor. You'll have to drive the Mustang @JayEmm on Cars to compare the two different developments of the DEW. *One thing about Jaguar is that they rarely keep spring and damper rates standardised. Every engine/body/trim spec combination has spring and damper sets specially chosen for them, so there are numerous parts number for S-Types depending on which engine and trim spec you have, and XFs got new ones again. Even the X-Type has different spring and damper sets depending on saloon or estate body, sport or comfort trim, and FWD or AWD powertrain.
Great info! Thanks for sharing
The s type was beautiful still is and it’s one they should bring back. I still turn my head when I see that car
I've had my Stype 2.7D for a few months now, I only brought it becuase i had a tight budget (Less than £2k) and needed a decent motorway car. I absolutely love it! I got the diesel as it will spend most of it time on the motorway, coming from an A6 C6 3.0tdi the Jag is so much better on fuel! Its definitely got under my skin and I'm already planning my next Jag!
Do you still have the car? How is it going?
@@Giuseppe80271 No unfortunately the crankshaft snapped going down the M5! apparently it's a problem with 2.7, no way of telling, dispite good maintenance it can still happen. I was tempted to keep her and change the engine but I just didn't have the knowledge or space! I covered over 7,000miles in my ownership and loved every mile, no regrets!
@@Giuseppe80271 I've got one, 2007 diesel, automatic, now 168.000 miles, owned since 66.000 miles, serviced it every 9.000 miles, synthetic oil only, gearbox oil changed twice, only non service problems I've had, fuel gauge stopped working, air-conditioning compressor failed, front electric windows, play up occasionally. That's it, averaged MPG 43.5 in my ownership, and mines not got a spot of rust anywhere, had it soaked in wax oiled when i bought it.
@@richyclubsport5155 Woow that's amazing! Thanks for sharing
Fair review. I had a 3 litre manual for 14 years with few problems and covered 100k miles it her including a drive to North Cyprus and back. Couldn’t find a good replacement so bought an STR which I now treasure.
I just turned 18 and Ive been driving an s type 2.5 for almost a year now I love it to its every bit the wood interior is just perfect yes its slow but I love it I dont think of selling it
Grear review and your comments from 14:25 on the attitude of other drivers are so true!
I has a 2.7d S-Type in Jaguar Racing Green. Beautiful car. I only sold it because I got a company car.
Later, when I started up as an independent consultant, I ploughed my money into the start up business. I bought an early 3 litre S Type for less than a grand. Great car for long business trips!
Nowadays I have the XF and it's brilliant.
JayEmm....people love Jags. I owned a really rare Long Wheelbase series 1 XJ6 in Regency red with natural leather hides (bone colour) . I lived in Bloomsbury Ave, Pymble , Sydney. Australia each morning I needed to make a right hand turn out of Bloomsbury Ave onto Pacific Highway (the absolute main northern road in Sydney) . I owned it 32 years & it's maintenance was paid by my employer, It always looked like it was NEW , not only did people like it , when fellow road users saw it wanting to turn right onto this primary road they stopped/crawled AND WAVED ME OUT, frequently that said same courteous driver would move to my left , tip the horn and in the stop start traffic or at a set of street stop/go lights say how lovely it looked. After 32years I sold it after I bought a 1967 jag mk10 or 420G (british leylands renaming of the 4.2 litre mk10). The Mk10 was even more like new with a mere 52,000mls & just one owner from 1967 thru to 2010. I get the same respect from other road users in the XJ6's big brother mk10.
@@gregharvie3896 how in the seven hells did you manage to get your employer to pay for maintenance of a classic jag for three decades?
@@r.k.5031 I could have a new Mercedes S class every second year, OR , TWO , yep 2 of my classic cars paid for, fully. The simple reason was it was simply cheaper. Reason being that back in the mid 1970's when Labor PM Whitlam was illegally sacked, the un-elected incoming Liberal government got a free near 4 year term, but they could not balance the books and in 1977-78 financial year they introduced a number of new taxes out of thin air. One being the luxury car tax on all imported luxury cars this was in addition to the ordinary sales tax on a new car. This new penalizing tax DOUBLED overnight the cost of any decent European import. The very reason I bought the LWB series 1 was because the price of what I then really wanted. a Jaguar 4.2 XJC coupe went from $13,800 to $27,000 OVERNIGHT. So for a business the savings are HUGE, if the staffer drives their own car and has repairs and other operating costs paid for. Plus the drop in deemed value (insured or sales) hits at 5 years of age so the loss if the vehicle is retained for too long for some reason is a mega loss to the owner , equally in private hands an total loss insurance claim can see some owners out of pocket if they have bought the vehicle second hand when coming close to the 5 year age marker, then it's written off just after the5 year point, it will see them only receive half value. and this brings out a second issue, where there may still be finance owing on the car, but insurance may only cover half that amount.
What's more that very tax is still in place near 50 years later in November 2024. So, with the price effectively doubled this drastically dropped the amount of high-end sedan car sales, and, to this day, the "show-pony" look at me fraternity will find the cash somewhere for expensive Euro coupes & convertibles but long gone are the days of seeing bulk big 4 door Jaguars, Mercedes, and Rolls Royce sedans. For instance, go back to the 1960's and MORE w100 Mercedes 600 standard wb sedans were imported to Australia than ANY other country like the USA, that's really saying something considering back then when I was at school, we had a mere 7 million Australians, now we have an additional 20 million and growing. So on the roads here now in Australia, you hardly ever see a big new Mercedes S class, and when looking at the last big Jaguars; the X351 XJ's that finished up in 2019 their sales here were microscopic, sadly. Move to Rolls Royce and in the late 1990's more new Silver Seraphs were sold than the following BMW developed cars Phantoms etc. All because of the punitive luxury car import tax almost 50 years of it now and having grown up at two addresses on Sydney's North Shore, the serious old money suburbs, times were different back then the amount of beautiful 4 door luxury sedans, and for example outside of the UK there were MORE Rolls Royce Silver Shadows sold here than in the USA !! Two door convertible and coupe ones too, let alone the "exquisites" like Facel Vega's, Monteverdi's, Ferrari's and similar, you would see more of these top end cars on the road back then in the monied suburbs than standard basic cars, not so now, those suburb demographics have not changed, they are still the old money suburbs, however few would buy an outrageously expensive luxury car to see its value drop to half in 5 years, and then just go into free fall after that. The scant few that buy that sort of car now would be diplomats who pay ZERO tax here in Australia on a car.
P.S. the other car that was paid for was my black 1974 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham -Talisman-. A special model made in low quantities for a mere 3 years '74 to '76. The introductory 1974 models were packed with more "goodies" that were cost options, or deleted from the following 2 years. GM Holdens- Australia got around the tax by sending the ordered cars as parts, CKD Kits (completely knocked down) so the car was built in Australia and missed the tax, however the taxman cottoned on to this right fast and blocked that bypass too. In 1982 I bought the Caddy from its aged first owner, this has been my primary car for 40 years, the "goodies" fitted to the '74 models were GM's Air Cushion Restraint System (ACRS) ie, airbags (yes GM invented the airbag), the Maxtrac system which ties together traction control, ABS brakes and self levelling suspension, add to this thick UV light proof glass all around, anti-theft system and serious list of other items so the car is like driving a modern car, with the exception of being a CKD export version it has a "full power" 8.3 litre 500 cubic inch engine with zero power sapping anti-pollution gear on it that was not to come here in Australia until 1986. So acceleration is real and it's delivered in absolute silence.
@gregharvie3896 Thanks, that was an interesting read!
I'm 21 and ive been driving mine since my 18s and i love it too
I have a XJ40 from 1993 and it’s lovely although it's not a daily driver. The main reason is that I can tell people that I drive a Jaaaag hehe There's a video from another youtuber that sums up what I like in Jaguars: “They are beautiful without being ostentatious, they are a display of wealth but without being vulgar, they are fast without being menacing…”
I get let out of junctions pretty much all the time in my S Type. ... I guess because there are hardly any left, and other motorists like seeing a retro looking car ? ... Thanks Mr M for another great unbiased review.
I inherited my late Mother’s 2001 S-Type 4.0 V8 in 2010…in nearly mint condition and with barely 23K on the clock…what a blessing!
Great Spec in Sapphire Blue over Ivory…loved it for the next six summers…never Wintered, even by Mom!
I sold it to her old best friend (a Jag lover!) at a jaggedly depreciated price ($55K US when new!) …but Mom’s stylish old Jag is living her best life today in retirement in posh Naples, Florida!
Mom’s old friend cherishes that gorgeous S-Type to this day..! Hope she enjoys it for many more years…that car was posh, sexy and surprisingly brisk..!
Never forget the S type diesel was the infamous Jeremy clarkson sub 10 minute nurburgring challenge car. This makes it a legend in my book.
Fair review, I believe these are massively underrated cars. Best in final facelift form, so 54-plate onwards and I think the 3.0v6 is a nice balance for the car. I've owned and dailied nearly all of the rivals in this class with similar engines - e39s & e60s, GS300, GS450h, Mercedes w211 and while the S-type is not a class leader across all aspects, it definitely is a competitor. Brilliant for wafting around in, and in the current market - an absolute steal.
Facelift was 2001/2. Had a 52 plate Sport!
@@smorris12 that was the first facelift. As I said, final facelift was from 54-plate onwards.
@@commited84 I sit corrected! In my mind that came a lot later, just for the last year or so of production.
Got my first Jag almost a year ago, and from the experience I've had from driving, to the great experiences we had when dealing with the dealership and service center, the wifey and I will always have a Cat Car in our life. 2018 XE 2.0 diesel. The fuel economy is beyond expectation, and I was shocked when I switched to sport mode and paddle shift. I didn't expect that kind of power from a 4cyl. Took a road trip and was extremely comfortable during 5 days on the road. From Florida to Nebraska, got caught in the last December snowstorm and found that I wasn't cutting a doughnut in a snow covered parking lot with the traction control on. As I tested "Kitty" before hitting the highway to start the trip back to FL, I was really impressed by how quick the system was to regain traction with the slightest slip. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get the rear end to slide more than about 5" before it regained traction. We traveled over 150 miles on the snow covered highway from 60 to around 75mph with no issues, and hitting the Tennessee Smoky Mountains early Sunday morning was a blast as there was little traffic. Pulled into a rest area before the downhill side of the mountains and ran into a couple of youtuber kids with a Camaro and a Subaru. We stuck with them until the valley and had reached low triple digit speeds and the Jag took the curves and switchbacks like it was on rails. That was an awesome trip! Only issues I had on the trip I caused myself. We are from Florida. Temps got down to 14 degrees F in Nebraska. I had to purge the lines for the windshield washer system with a fluid for cold temps. I didn't purge enough of the Florida washer fluid out, so the lines froze and I had to pull off often to wash the windshield.
So far, the XE has been a great, fun and affordable daily driver.
The 2005-2014 Mustang was going to use the Jag's DEW98 platform, but it was too expensive. However, since they'd already done part of the engineering, several parts carry over to the Mustang's D2C platform.
It is the platform used by the Lincoln LS1 & the Thunderbird
Just bought 20/06/2022
2007 S type v6 petrol . Fantastic
This is BRILLIANT. The world is going about turn. This chap has bought a stately Jag at 23.
At 46 I have just bought an EP3 Type R. 😆
S-Type is probably the best deals right now out of any cars, good size, not too expensive, can still find a low mileage, good taken care of. Loved my STR.
I've always loved the look of these. And they are still very much a common sight around town even in 2022. I've seen 3 today alone. And even now, these have aged magnificently imo. However, There is a XJ Vanden Plas south of my city and I am absolutely in love with it. I contemplate going down there to ask how much the guy wants for it.
I think Arthur Daley made my mind up over who drove jaguars in minder,
If your a child of the 70's I bet you 👍
I owned an S-Type R and I truly miss it, it was a great car to drive. I'd love to own one as a second car again if I could afford to. You're absolutely right about people letting Jaguars out by the way, still happens. I can wait for ages in the Fiat but someone usually lets the Jag out.
Im 19 and brought an s type as my second car best thing i ever did supprisingly cheap to run pennies to buy so much fun to drive and as a bonus looks amazing IMO
Back in 2019 when I was 18 I got my first jag 2003 s type 4.2 N/a v8. I just recently bought another jag 1998 xj8 vdp (the car is older then me). Great pretty cheap luxury cars not comparable to the German “luxury” cars. Older jags have the style and class that newer cars just lack.
The S-Type/LS chassis was used on the S197 Mustang (2005-2014) and I actually owned a 2005 Mustang GT. The major difference was that the Mustang did not enjoy the independent rear suspension that the S-Type enjoyed. I also owned a 2003 S-Type Sport (5-speed manual) - which was a great car, but did succumb to rust. Great review Jay!
I sold my blue S-Type 3.0 V6 Sport a few days ago and miss it. Replaced it with the 2010 XJ Portfolio but wish I could have kept both.
I have an elderly neighbour who kept buying old Jags because he loves them so. Sadly, he is a pensioner with limited income, and they are so very needy. They each ended up being disposed of when they had hoovered every last penny from his bank account, even a much beloved XJ12. The latest one is an immaculate older S-class, and it too adorned the forecourt of our rural garage workshop rather more often than maybe it should. Rather than being used as a daily driver these days, it spends much of its time safely snoozing in a shed, being used more selectively. He has something cheap, reliable and rusty (and non-Jag) nowadays for his daily trips to the village shop.
I looked at a 2.7D but ultimately ended up with a Saab and don't particularly regret it. I think as nice as these are the rust bunny will sting you eventually. That being said I'm still upset that my stepdad sold his 2001 XKR to WBAC for £1700 without consulting me because I would have happily given him £1701.
Just reluctantly sold mine today. Got it at 17 and lasted me 8 years. Carnival red with the tan interior. Hopefully I’ll own another at some point when I have the space for extra vehicles
Have actually seen a Ford Thunderbird in Hereford whilst cruising past in my S-Type, gave eachother a knowing nod.
Drop-dead gorgeous in person!
I loved mine too - but unfortunately head gasket failure claimed it on just under 90k miles. One of the best wafty barges I've ever had.
I have this engine in an x350 xj6 and it's a good engine. Ford duratec V6 with Jaguar VVT heads. Not as much fun as a v8 of course, but that's mostly due to the sound. It goes well enough - definitely punching above it's weight for a 3 litre from nearly 20 years ago.
E39 528 outpaced it in all acceleration tests with a mere 193bhp. Good old what car magazine group test with my favourite exec the A6 2.8 quattro.
I'll admit I'm guilty of following the comments from people slamming this car on reliability.
Definitely would have loved to have one of these.
My 2004 3-liter S at 220.000 km has just received new discs and pads and apart from a small oil leak from the engine has not given me any problems what so ever. It is also satifying to hear people ask: "Is it a new car?" Granted they are not familiar with the brand but still. One of the best cars I ever owned...Volvos, SAABs, Alfa-Romeos, MGs, Peugeots, Cadillacs, Chevys, Dodges etc included..
Just a great car. Next car will be an XF before Jaguar goes electric and thus becomes as undesirable as any other.
The S stays in the barn though as it will be a future classic.
I have a 2000 V6 here in Spain 3.0l with a manual gearbox. It is clean underneath and the engine and gearbox are fantastic. I love it.
Excited to watch that video. Same with a Rover 75. Still classy and timeless design. A Android Unit instead of the OG radio and you are good to go. Luxury, cruise control, heated seats, leather, etc. What do you want more?
Really like these for some reason when I was younger. I called it the MidSommers Murder car because I always saw it on the show.
I’m 23, bought mine on Friday. Wonderful thing to drive.
We owned one (built in 2004) and loved it!
Unfortunately it rusted like hell and was beyond repair (due to a corroded rear subframe which was nigh-impossible to replace in Germany, and rust on any other part of the body) after only 14 years and 180.000 km.
I’m thinking of buying an SType! They are a little more expensive in the American used car market and I’ve NEVER had good luck with a Jaguar. But there is a V8 2005 model where I live with 80,000 miles for $6,000.
Always love the styling of the S-Type
I had a new S type 2.7 d sport. Fantastic drive, totally reliable, from the driver seat you could not see the styling. I was over 1000 miles a week.
I had a s type manual. Used it for drifting and as a daily. Was a great car.
Had my 2000 V6 Manual for 15 years. Still gets through MOTs with no advisories. It’s my winter car and has never let me down. Love it to bits!
By 1999 the Italians had learnt the hard way about rust proofing and the cars from the 90s onwards were pretty good with galvanised body panels on many models and the deletion of seams and moisture traps under the cars, so don't play that old record again here and get it right for a change.
Yeah, Fiats of that era or later dont rust more than most other cars of similar vintage. Its the "premium" Italians that got problems for some reason. Also, to some peoples surprise, I have found French cars from 2000s and up to be among the best for rust, bar none.
My first car at 23 was a Jaguar S-Type 2.7 D. The car looked great and drove well, but the ongoing stress over the DPF filter was too much and it just had to go. Every drive started with me praying I didn’t have an amber or even worse, red light appear.
Had a 3.0 V6 a couple of years ago and I absolutely loved it! Drove a 2000 mile road trip with it and it was super comfortable. I did have to replace the side sills that rusted, but funnily enough everything else was in top shape. I added a D2 complete adjustable suspension to it and the ride became absolutely sublime!
Super happy that I kept my s-type in my fleet.
I have 2.5 sport plus. Absolutely beautiful car. Have had 5 in my time. Definitely the most beautiful jaguar back in the day.
Check the facelift V6 for the water feature under the scuttle plate.
You have to stop the water filling the spark plug wells and rotting the coils.
It's simple enough to make a shield from thin aluminium sheet.
Sandwich it between the cross brace and scuttle plate.
Got the X200 V8 4.0 which doesn't suffer the problem.
It is a pleasure listening to you. Clear enunciation and perfect pronunciation. Of course the content is top class too.
Thankyou, very kind
Still miss my S-Type, a 3.0 V6 Manual that I sold for spares as an MOT failure and the guy bought it for the engine to go in a Mazda MX-5
22 and currently looking at buying one of these. Going to go see it sometime next week. Very tempted ngl
Thank you for another great review - really enjoy the thoughtful perspective on classics. I love my 2005 stype here in Canada where it’s viewed as beautiful and quintessentially British. The negatives of a Ford link now long forgotten.
That ford ownership made this car one of the most reliable car on road. Have this and bmw and bmw is cheap shit crap vs style. Owning both 12 years. Quality is incomparable. Majority think it's the opposite. No. This Jaguar is tank with rubber O ring that failed where on BMW failed everything
I would prefer an XFR, but I really do like the retro look of the S-Type.
If you ever come over to Vancouver Island I dare you to try out my Cadillac XTS VSport. A very underrated car if I do say.
V6 3.0 6 speed , a late car with 295000km...nothing to complain about...still very close to new
STR, Disc problems, repetedly
But my first car lasted 300000km without gearbox nor engine problem
ABS sensors did not like heavy rain and pressure cleaning, putting the car in limp mode for a few minutes
And some parts were difficult to source in suspensions
My second STR is now 200000km, has no other problems than..DISCS
Conclusion, we should save as much of these as we can, some as excellent daily drivers, some as vollector s items
Best regardd
What kind of discs dear sir? Clutch or brake?
So Im 19 y.o, and i have 1999 4.0 V8 S-Type it has zero rust and im so happy with it.
I was just considering buying a 2005 V8 S-Type in dark blue, and then this video comes along.
I'm 18 and I'm bouta star working for one this car so filthy 😩
Thanks J, always good to see a Jag in your videos!
Excellent video. Love the S-Type, I've had three of them and none gave any troubles. Prices are on the up as you say in your video. If you think the window switches in the S-Type are bad have a look at the XE. They're really awful!
A friend and classmate of mine had a Navy blue XJ6 when we graduated from high school and after the ceremony we went in the jag and drove to some club to celebrate. Gorgeous car, I liked its exterior styling better than even the new mercs of the time, but I had to sit in the middle of the rear seat, and it was SHEER TORTURE for a guy of 6 1" and average weight. Fast forward, my landlady in Washington DC when I was there in summer 2003 on a US NAvy Distinguished Faculty Fellowship from the Office of Naval Research, had an old 1987 British racing green XJ6 which she let me drive one Sat evening as we visited a friend of hers in Maryland. The car had a really tiny gear lever, is what I remember most. It was a rainstorm and we could hardly see in front of our noses. As for the tiny Jag based on the Ford Contour, the X or whatever, it was a BAD JOKE, as was the contour itself. NO THANKS, Ford.
One of my friends dad's had an S type, apparently you had two waiting rooms at the dealership, one for the Ford owners with cheap plastic seats and a separate area for Jag owners with more expensive leather chairs and nicer decor, not sure how true that was though 🤔
You have to remember the rover 75 suspension was designed by bmw. Looks the same suspension arms as 3 series or mini. Bring FWD you can throw them around. Bushes don’t last long though (being bmw)
I just picked up an 2007 S-Type from the original owner with 29,000 miles in this exact same color combination.
I was very lucky, about 5 years ago, to purchase a 2005 3.0 S type which had just been re-imported from Japan, where it had led a cosseted salt-free life by one owner and was thus immaculate underneath. I was smitten, and instantly traded in my 2006 SE 3.0 which had higher mileage on the clock.
The 05 had just over 18,000 miles on it in 13 years. It now has 37,000 and has been very reliable. I love the retro styling. Indeed it was part of Jaguar's marketing slogan (it's all just a little bit of history repeating). I always feel that, apart from the styling, this would have been Ford's next generation Granada/Scorpio (I had several of these before Jag seduced me). A great car. I'm an 81 y.o. Petrolhead.
Gotta say, after seeing AM DBS Aston's with Hillman Hunter tail lights, Zephyr MkIV Executive light housings, Chrysler indicator stalks, I seriously think the New S type got the best Deal on Wheels with its parts bin. And the chassis base was a real thing of excellence, wasted on the clientele that bought Mustang S197s, Lincoln LS and the last T bird. Ford Australia wanted the S type base for its cars, but each Hairy Arsed Cobber from Aussie that asked Jac Nasser's team when was it gonna be ready.....got defrocked and sent back from Dearborn with no job. Jag made everything good with this frumpy, cute intermediate. It's a great bit of kit. And someone inside the Bowles of Fraud, um, Ford, gave it the best V6's and V8's. Goog Work JayEmm. Five 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟's
I put about 100k on a 2005 3.0 litre Sport. It was a lovely car. I utterly reject any idea that the 5-series had a better interior - my S-Type didn't have plastic backs to the front seats! The S-Type had nice smooth engines and the same ZF 6 speed automatic as the BMWs were using. The S-Type though had a beautiful blend of ride quality (yes, even in Sport guise) and handling balance. That shouldn't be surprising knowing that the XF was the same car rebodied. Indeed the X202 (post 2002) S-Type shares much of its suspension with the X350 XJ, the X150 XK and XKR as well as, of course, the XF. The S-Type Sports seats are very, very comfortable. Mine was very reliable over a long period too. :) Note however that the 1999-2001 X200 S-Type with the urinal shaped dashboard was mechanically a very different car and doesn't drive anywhere near as good as the X202 does. As for rust - I'd rather deal with the simple sills on this than the very creative rust you find on a 5-series or, god forbid, the rust-o-matic E-class. My 3.0 used to manage a genuine 36mpg on long distance runs, but high 20s was normal for my old rural-urban mix commute (with no motorways).
It's been 4 years since I sold my 3.0 Sport S-type after 7 years of ownership.A really good car (no problems at all), but not the way like my favourite e39 530i M-pack, which I think is great in every way.
Had 2, the 2.5, and after a mistaken dalliance with a Volvo v70, the 2.7D. Loved them both, miss the 2.5 more. Always a sense of occasion.
We have a 2005 S type. It's one of the best cars I have owned, in 45 years of diving.
Just bought a XJL 3,0 V6. Crazy over 60 mpg. Epic value.
I always liked these - despite what Clarkson says (I used to encounter JC on my commute, I was in my Williams Mégane Coupe, which he loathed, if we clocked each other we'd just laugh from behind our respective windscreens) - and yet I love the later XJ6's too, true they're not as svelte as their predecessors but still awesome.
As someone who now needs a cost effective auto, with cruise (with my disabilities) who wants rid of the devaluation monster etc, my heart says "XJ 6" my head says "S Type". I love Range Rovers but I feel that a Jag is less hassle, and I've looked at X Types, the "Estate" with 4WD is very good, BUT when I've looked at them, even with FSH, mint interior? Rotten as a pear underneath. I've not the time nor health to deal with such. But I did like the Ford parts availability - even to the point of retro fitting folding mirrors to an X Type.
Dad and I have always denied ourselves a Jaguar saloon - time is running out on many fronts to own one though. The last saloons? I like them, but they ain't an XJ or an S Type, I've always thought them special. My late oldest uncle, a black sheep, a cad, 90% of the time had a new Jag, grudging admiration, he had a couple of Rollers, but that didn't float my boat, as much as I respected them, the Jag seemed to garner more respect, more love from onlookers than the Roller.
So the S Type seems to fit the bill (I'm on a budget but have a newer car to sell, that's currently riding high in price), but ooh, an XJ 6, my heart really aches for that.
What to do - sell a newer, reliable car, that's getting harder to drive and buy a risky Jag as my last hurrah?🤔🤔🤔
Or is my heart ruling my head for both the XJ and the S Type? An easy lazy auto V6, the practical choice vs a very good, fun, but less comfortable, more hands on Japanese pocket rocket that's bomb proof reliable and cheap on parts and devaluation has kinda reversed (for now)🤔
😣😝
I’m absolutely blown away that a 10 year old was given ANY input into car buying decisions.
Talking about the attitude of other road users, yes I have a beautiful XJ8 x350, in North Queensland Oz there isn't a lot of courtesy on the road but! I have never driven a car that just attracts it! even here!, for some reason even Truckies treat it with respect! On a recent trip to Brisbane, I just loved driving around the "big smoke"!, I only needed to flik the indicator to change lanes and I would immediately most of the time be let in! Amazing! I just don't find that in any other vehicle! What is it???
I had one of these as a courtesy car from my local Jag independent mechanic recently. 3.0 petrol V6 Auto. Nice.
It has a lot of the old-world Jag charm and feel, which links back to the feel of the old XJs, particularly in the steering - which isn't particularly self-centering - and the gearbox, which isn't exactly in a hurry.
It's a quiet, comfortable, relaxing car.
Dynamically it's not good. It feels like a horse & cart compared to an XF, but it doesn't pretend at dynamism - it's very clearly a fatman cruiser.
The windscreen is physically further away from the driver than any car I've ever known - and I say that having had E-Class, 5-series and a Jag XF. It's quite bizarre. If you stuck your satnav/phone to it, you'd need a telescope to see it and a pokey-stick to control it.
The biggest problem for me was all the bits of Ford in the cabin and on your keyring. They look and feel decidedly below par in this setting. There's no ignoring it. How anyone ever tolerated this in an XK or a DB7 I do not know.
I'll stick with my XF, which will (touch wood) go on for a good while yet.
The X type, the S type, and the XF and the XJ for that matter are all great cars and I had all of them throughout the years. However my 2008 XJ was my favorite, second being the XF just because the 5.0 V8 was bad ass but the 3 L engine in the X type and the S type were very reliable. Mine was a manual so it didn’t have some of the bugs that the automatics head, but besides a leaking coolant tank which I got an Amazon for $30 since it is a Ford Part it was a problem free…
I’ve owned an insanely fast S-Type R, suspension and fuel system enhanced. Currently a 2007 S-Type diesel. As much as I loved the R, the diesel still has all the power you could ever need and is a better daily driver.
I had a 2005 manual 2.7 which was a nice place to be, not great on fuel but again 1.7 tons! Rust and DPF brought my ownership to an end. The six speed manual was excellent never drove the auto. I agree with this cars owner that the 75 is better in most areas but not all.
I have a 2004 S-type, VDP, British Racing Green with champagne that I am keeping low miles, garaged and in perfect condition. It is not a car (like my BMW) that see coming and going frequently. I plan to keep it for a very long time especially now since it has 8 cylinders.
If you want one snap one up now while they're still cheap. Every other Jag has gone through a period of being unloved and then emerges as a classic and I think the S Type is no different. It's getting a lot more attention in videos like this one recently and prices are starting to creep up. I love the cars. I'm on my 3rd.
I had an S type R (v8) it was the best all-round cars I've owned, and I've had a few!
I got a 06 3.0 v6 s type I'm nearing 50 but I could not handle the grandad look, as an ol school bogan I had to foosh it out, i bought a jet black one of course, and max tinted the windows and replaced the ugly jag mags with 19" 10 spoke black covert mags
Gets alot of attention now!
Fuel use can be very reasonable. 23 mpg and 27 if careful whilst still hitting UK speed limits. 33 mpg if trying hard ( manual gearbox ). Divide by 1.2 for USA. The motor looks to be 40% Jaguar. Mostly bolt on pieces. A beautiful car with easy upgrades like shocks etc. My friends Seat Leon is less frugal. The S type makes it possible to own a classic. It's nothing like the Ford Taurus ( nearest I know of ). That is more like a kitchen appliance.
Wow. I can safely say, if that had been my dad, the response I would've gotten would probably have sounded a bit like this:
"Son, when you can afford to buy your own car, feel free to not buy an XKR."
He would've then bought an XKR.
I'm 21 and my dream car is the Rover P5
You are a man of culture!
I remember going to Castle Bromwich with university around 2000 to the production line for these. Despite the American Ford underpinnings, Jaguar put a lot of extra development into the chassis. That being said, I'm surprised James likes the steering, I thought it had the typical Jag trait of over-assistance?
I do want a Jaaaaag of the era, but I'd personally rather have an XJ, I can't resist it's aristocratic charm. Also those are aluminium.
Yeah especially a XJ12 ..........nice.
I Love my XJ
A timely video indeed. I'm looking at either a 2004 s type or a 2005 xj8 LWB both with the 4.2l V8 except the xj8 is about 5k AUD more as opposed to the same price that James stated... decisions decisions.
Great review as always
I hate people say its a Volvo because of the origin of the chassis and parts.
I realy liked mine, my ex wife sold it without permission after divorce. 🤬
I have one rusting on my drive. I can't justify spending money on it right now but I can't bring myself to get rid of it either..