Used 2004 Jaguar XJR Base

The 2004 model year was a watershed moment for Jaguar’s flagship sedan, and this 2004 Jaguar XJR captures that transformation in a way that is difficult to overstate. Jaguar completely re-engineered the XJ from the ground up, moving to an aluminum monocoque structure that drew on aerospace techniques used at Castle Bromwich since the days of the Spitfire. The result was a body that was about 200 pounds lighter than its predecessor, with a structure approximately 60 percent stiffer and an interior enlarged by roughly 20 percent. In practical terms, that means this XJR combines the presence of a traditional full-size Jaguar with the responsiveness and efficiency of a far more modern design. Finished in a beautiful Black exterior over a black interior with leather seats and rich wood grain accents, this particular example has covered only 50,313 miles since new and comes with a Clean CARFAX and a two-owner history as provided—an appealing combination for anyone seeking a serious performance luxury sedan with a strong identity. At the heart of the XJR is Jaguar’s 4.2-liter V8 supercharged engine, the defining feature of this model and the reason enthusiasts gravitate toward the “R” badge. Force-fed by an Eaton supercharger delivering approximately 13.1 psi of boost, the 4.2-liter unit is factory rated at about 390 horsepower with 399 lb-ft of torque, delivered at a relatively low rpm. In independent instrumented testing when new, the 2004 XJR has demonstrated 0–60 mph times in the low-to-mid five-second range and quarter-mile times in the high-13-second bracket at over 100 mph, placing it squarely in the company of contemporary German super-sedans that cost significantly more when new. The combination of aluminum construction (keeping curb weight around 4,000 pounds) and nearly 400 lb-ft of torque gives the XJR a very distinctive character: a small movement of your right foot translates into a smooth, forceful surge of acceleration that feels effortless rather than strained. Power is routed through a six-speed automatic transmission, a ZF unit that pairs with the supercharged V8 to deliver refined yet authoritative performance. In normal driving, the car moves away from a stop with a calm, composed demeanor; ask for more and the transmission drops into the appropriate gear and the XJR gathers speed quickly and decisively. The rigid aluminum structure provides an excellent foundation for the suspension and powertrain, helping the car feel stable and composed at highway speeds and giving the supercharged engine a solid, predictable platform to work against. This blend of traditional Jaguar elegance with genuinely modern engineering is one of the key reasons the 2004-up XJR has become so interesting to informed enthusiasts. Inside, this XJR maintains the classic Jaguar atmosphere that buyers expect, with black leather seats set off by rich wood grain accents. The front seats are power adjustable and heated, allowing the driver and front passenger to tailor their seating position and comfort level with precision. Rear occupants are not an afterthought in this car; the second row is also equipped with heated seats, reinforcing the XJR’s role as both an executive express and a genuine long-distance companion. The layout reflects Jaguar’s traditional approach to luxury: wood, leather, and a clean, formal presentation that complements the car’s understated exterior. Technology and comfort features further underline the XJR’s dual personality as both a driver’s car and a long-range cruiser. This example is equipped with a central radio screen that provides AM/FM audio and DVD-based navigation capability; the navigation system hardware is present, though the DVD disc itself is not included. Audio is handled by an Alpine system, a notable highlight in period tests for its clarity and strength, and very much in keeping with the XJR’s role as a high-end luxury sedan. Together, the screen-based interface and Alpine audio help anchor the cabin with a driver-focused, yet upscale feel that still presents well today. The glass and shading equipment on this car also contribute meaningfully to its usability. A power sunroof brings additional light and air into the cabin when desired, enhancing the sense of space and making the interior feel more open on the move or around town. At the rear, a windshield sunshade helps reduce glare and heat from behind, a particularly welcome feature during daytime highway driving or in sunnier climates. These elements fit neatly into the XJR’s overall mission: to cover serious miles in comfort while offering the driver a level of engagement and performance that goes far beyond what most full-size sedans of its era can deliver. Practical details have not been overlooked. This XJR includes a full-size spare, a feature that adds peace of mind on longer journeys and stands out in an era when many cars rely on space-saver spares or sealant kits. Paired with the inherent benefits of the aluminum structure—lighter weight, corrosion-resistant body panels, and bolt-on front and rear crash structures designed to facilitate repair—the full-size spare contributes to the overall sense that this is a car engineered for real-world use as well as performance numbers.