The Jaguar XJR from the early 2000s, particularly the 2004 model, often gets overlooked, but for true enthusiasts, it remains a compelling choice. Kevin, a passionate owner, exemplifies this sentiment, showcasing his 2004 Jaguar Xjr, affectionately nicknamed “Miss Bev,” in a feature with Matt Farah from The Smoking Tire. This isn’t just any Jaguar; Miss Bev boasts an impressive 221,000 miles, a testament to her resilience and Kevin’s dedicated care.
Despite the odometer reading that might deter typical luxury car buyers, Miss Bev presents an astonishingly clean appearance. Both the exterior and interior maintain a mint condition, and even the engine bay defies expectations with minimal signs of age or grime. This remarkable state challenges the common narrative surrounding high-mileage luxury vehicles, especially those from the early 2000s era.
Immaculate 2004 Jaguar XJR exterior, a testament to the durability of this high-performance luxury sedan, despite high mileage.
Typically, high-end luxury cars are perceived to follow a depreciation cycle: initial ownership, followed by a sale at a reduced price, and then often, neglect due to escalating maintenance costs leading to premature junkyard visits. However, Kevin’s experience with his 2004 Jaguar XJR breaks this mold. Acquired from owners who primarily used it for highway driving, Miss Bev performs remarkably well, feeling almost new even with mileage nearing lunar distances. The supercharged 4.2-liter V8 engine, producing around 400 horsepower, still delivers exhilarating performance, complete with the signature supercharger whine that Matt Farah clearly enjoyed.
For anyone seeking in-depth knowledge about the early 2000s Jaguar XJ series, the Smoking Tire video featuring Kevin is an invaluable resource. Kevin passionately details the nuances of owning a 2004 XJR, from unique maintenance aspects – highlighting how his mechanic encounters unprecedented situations due to the exceptional mileage accumulated on this particular model – to insights into the manufacturing process of these Ford-era Jaguars. His enthusiasm provides a comprehensive “Jag-ucation,” revealing the hidden gem that the 2004 Jaguar XJR can be for those willing to look beyond conventional luxury car stereotypes.
