Models The model range is quite simple: two body styles (Coupé and Convertible); two engine sizes, 4.0-litre and 4.2-litre; normally-aspirated or supercharged. Nearly double the number of Convertibles were made compared to Coupés, and they're still the more costly of the two to purchase. Supercharged models equated to only about one-third of total production, and the earlier 4.0-litre engines were more popular than the later 4.2-litre versions. For practical and regular use the Coupé wins: cheaper to buy; better visibility; more assured security because of the 'tin top;' and many people prefer the styling.
The Convertible is ideal for use on high days and holidays. The lined hood is fully retractable and seals well against the elements. The only downside is the hand fitting of the hood cover, competitors like the Mercedes SL have a self-closing metal panel. However, the XK benefits from a bigger boot because of this. Body-wise the cars remained virtually identical until the last facelift in 2004, with relatively minor styling alterations. Several special editions were produced, starting with the Silverstone (painted silver) in 2000, and the XKR 100 in 2001 (painted black). The Carbon Fibre was produced In 2004, with its unique dashboard treatment, and there were special editions for the US market - the XKR Portfolio (blue or red) with special interior finishes. The final factory special editions were to commemorate the end of production in 2005; the S model in the UK and Europe, and the Victory in the US.
Production figures XK8 4.0-litre Coupé 19,748 XK8 4.0-litre Convertible 46,770 XKR 4.0-litre Coupé 9811 XKR 4.0-litre Convertible 14,045 Technical specifications Minor changes took place throughout the production period of the cars. 4.0-litre normally-aspirated engine: 3996cc 8-cylinder 32-valve DOHC 86mm x 86mm 290bhp @ 6100rpm & 290lb/ft @ 4250rpm. 4.
0-litre supercharged engine 3996cc 8-cylinder 32-valve DOHC 86mm x 86mm 370bhp @ 6150rpm & 387lb/ft @ 3600rpm. 4.2-litre normally-aspirated engine: 4196cc 8-cylinder 32-valve DOHC 96mm x 90.3mm 300bhp @ 6000rpm & 310lb/ft @ 4100rpm. 4.2-litre supercharged engine: 4196cc 8-cylinder 32-valve DOHC 96mm x 90.3mm 400bhp @ 6100rpm & 408lb/ft @ 3500rpm. Transmissions 4.
0-litre normally-aspirated models: ZF 5-speed automatic with J-gate operation. 4.0-litre supercharged: Mercedes-Benz 5-speed automatic with J-gate operation. 4.2-litre (all models): ZF 6-speed automatic with J-gate operation.