What is it?
The fastest, most powerful, most expensive model within the new Jaguar F-type range, and although it costs a whopping £79,950 and looks all but identical to the lesser versions, it’s a proper old-school hotrod and no mistake.
Like all the other F-types, the V8 S sits on a rear-wheel-drive aluminium chassis that features all-round double wishbone suspension, plus the same basic cabin architecture from which to survey the world. It has the same electric hood as the lesser models (12sec up or down), the same driving position, the same decently sized boot (200 litres) and even the same multi-function steering wheel (available with either a flat bottom in Alcantara or rounded and in leather, which is nice).
But in most respects, that’s where the similarities between the V8 S F-type and the V6s end. For although there’s the same eight-speed Quickshift gearbox through which to deploy the V8’s thunderous extra power and torque (489bhp and 364lb ft), it feels like a completely different animal on the road.
Partly this is because that’s the way Jaguar wants it to feel, hence the reason there’s an electronic diff (rather than a mechanical limited slip diff as in the Jaguar F-type V6 S) in order to manage the V8’s extra flow of power.
But at the same time there are also bigger brakes, 20in wheels, quad exhausts and a yet more sophisticated Dynamic Drive system that allows you to fine-tune the steering weight, throttle response, gearchange speeds and even the exhaust noise. All of which endow the V8 S with a very different personality on the move.
Join the debate
Add your comment
F type V8S
Just took delivery of my V8S and love it. Not quite as powerful as the Viper GTS but easier to handle. As an added bonus it costs much less out the door and to insure. I had considered the XKR as I am a big guy, (6'2" 260) but it just didn't give me that sense of speed or exclusivity. The F is most certainly tighter in the cabin and you sit lower which sort of reminds me of my old '73 MGB and '61 Hilman Minx. I know, crappy comparison. On California freeways this can be a bit nerveracking. My only issue is the lack of a trunk/boot for golf clubs.
The myth of German reliability
@lanehogger: as posted elsewhere, my 5-series was by far my least reliable car ever, and that included a 1961 Mini that was 10 years old when I bought it, and a Hillman Imp, so it had some tough competition......
@germanpower: having owned a Boxster and a Jag, the Jag has been far more reliable. The Porker had the endemic fault of a failure of the rear main seal on the crank, so dumped oil everywhere. A known fault, apparently.
The F-type has won a Car
The F-type has won a Car magazine group test, beating the Audi R8 and a 911 (911 came last). I'm guessing Car magazine must be biased too.