The Jaguar XK Convertible (X100) 4.0 V8 Automatic, produced between 1996 and 2002, represented a significant return to form for Jaguar, blending traditional British luxury with modern engineering. This variant occupied a mid-to-premium position within the X100 range, offering a compelling combination of performance and comfort. It was the first all-new XK since the legendary XJS, and aimed to recapture the spirit of the original E-Type while appealing to a contemporary audience. The X100 platform, also underpinning the XK Coupe, was a clean-sheet design intended to address criticisms of the XJS’s aging architecture.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jaguar |
| Model | XK |
| Generation | XK Convertible (X100) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V8 (284 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.2 l/100 km (13.7 US mpg, 16.4 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 159.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 284 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71 Hp/l |
| Torque | 375 Nm @ 4250 rpm (276.59 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AJ26, AJ27 |
| Engine displacement | 3998 cm3 (243.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 320 kg (705.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 327 l (11.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4760 mm (187.4 in.) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Height | 1306 mm (51.42 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2588 mm (101.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1504 mm (59.21 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/50 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the XK 4.0 was the AJ26/AJ27 4.0-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated engine, a significant departure from Jaguar’s previous reliance on inline-sixes, was designed and built in-house. It featured a 60-degree V-angle, aluminum block and cylinder heads, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimal performance and efficiency. The 4.0L V8 produced 284 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 375 lb-ft of torque at 4250 rpm. The automatic transmission was a 5-speed unit, offering smooth shifts but lacking the direct engagement of a manual gearbox. The transmission was calibrated to prioritize comfort and refinement, aligning with the XK’s grand touring character.
Driving Characteristics
The XK 4.0 Automatic offered a relaxed and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 6.4 seconds, respectable for the era but noticeably slower than the manual version. The gear ratios were tuned for comfortable highway driving, with a focus on minimizing engine revs at cruising speeds. The steering was light and precise, contributing to the car’s ease of use. However, some drivers found the suspension to be a bit soft, resulting in noticeable body roll during spirited cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XK 4.0 Automatic came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, climate control, and a premium sound system. Wood veneer trim adorned the interior, enhancing the sense of luxury. Optional extras included heated seats, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The convertible top was a power-operated soft top, offering a relatively quiet and well-insulated cabin when raised. The dashboard layout was classic Jaguar, with elegant gauges and a user-friendly interface. The trim level generally sat in the middle of the range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The X100 chassis was a significant improvement over the XJS, utilizing a more rigid monocoque construction. The suspension employed a double wishbone setup at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The rear brakes were fully ventilated, a step up from some earlier Jaguar models. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise control and a comfortable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The XK 4.0 Automatic was generally well-received by critics, who praised its elegant styling, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted the automatic transmission’s impact on performance and the relatively soft suspension. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. Against competitors like the BMW 6 Series and Mercedes-Benz SL, the XK 4.0 offered a unique blend of British charm and modern technology. Fuel economy was typical for a V8-powered luxury car of the era, averaging around 19.9 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Jaguar XK 4.0 V8 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, particularly when properly maintained. The AJ26/AJ27 engine is known for its durability, although regular servicing is essential. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional problems with the cooling system. Today, the X100 XK remains a desirable classic, offering a stylish and comfortable grand touring experience at an affordable price. The automatic transmission variant is particularly popular with drivers who prioritize ease of use and refinement. The car represents a pivotal moment in Jaguar’s history, marking a return to the brand’s core values of luxury, performance, and style.
