2013–2024
2006–2015 (X150)
Two generations of Jaguar sports car, both with V6 and V8 power. The F‑Type is the sharp, modern weapon; the XK is the classic grand tourer. Here’s which one fits your driving style and budget.
The F‑Type is the better sports car for most buyers - it’s sharper, more modern, and offers a wider range of engines and trims. The XK is a classic grand tourer with timeless styling and a lower entry price, but it’s older, less reliable, and harder to find parts for. For pure driving thrill and modern tech, choose the F‑Type; for classic GT comfort and bargain prices, the XK is a tempting alternative.
Full comparison, five‑year cost projection, and which car fits your lifestyle below.
| Jaguar F‑Type (X152) | Jaguar XK (X150) | |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2013–2024 | 2006–2015 |
| Key Engines | AJ126 3.0 V6 SC · AJ133 5.0 V8 SC | AJ‑V8 4.2 · AJ133 5.0 V8 SC |
| 2025 UK Enquiries | 53 (F‑Type X152) [EM‑VERIFIED] | [ESTIMATED] ~30 |
| Typical Recon Fitted Cost | AJ126: £4,500–£7,500; AJ133: £5,500–£9,000 | AJ133: £5,500–£9,000; AJ‑V8: £3,000–£5,500 |
| Defining Failure | AJ126 cooling leaks; AJ133 pre‑2013 chain tensioner | AJ‑V8 chain guide wear; AJ133 tensioner |
| Best For | Sharp handling, modern tech, performance | Classic GT styling, comfort, value |
Enquiry volumes from 2025 Engine Failure Index. Costs are independent specialist supply‑and‑fit.
The F‑Type is the better sports car overall. It’s lighter, more agile, and benefits from modern engineering and a wider range of engines. The XK is a beautiful grand tourer with a more relaxed character, but it’s ageing and its parts availability is becoming an issue. If you want the definitive Jaguar sports car experience, the F‑Type is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a budget and love classic GT styling, the XK offers a lot of car for the money.
The F‑Type (X152) is Jaguar's modern sports car, available as a coupe or convertible. Its engine range includes the AJ126 3.0‑litre supercharged V6 (340–380 PS) and the AJ133 5.0‑litre supercharged V8 (up to 575 PS in SVR guise). The AJ126 is the most common; it’s known for cooling system leaks (water pump, crossover pipes) – see our AJ126 Cooling System Failure page. The AJ133, especially pre‑2013, has timing chain tensioner risks – details on AJ133 Chain Tensioner Failure. Replacement costs are moderate to high: AJ126 £4,500–£7,500, AJ133 £5,500–£9,000. The F‑Type’s aluminium construction, modern chassis, and sharp steering make it a driver’s car par excellence. It also offers a much more modern interior and infotainment than the XK. Full specs on the AJ126 Knowledge Centre and AJ133 Knowledge Centre.
The XK (X150, 2006–2015) is Jaguar's classic grand tourer. It was offered with the AJ‑V8 4.2‑litre naturally aspirated V8 (300–420 PS) and the AJ133 5.0‑litre supercharged V8 (up to 550 PS in XKR‑S). The AJ‑V8 is simpler and cheaper to replace (£3,000–£5,500), with its main issue being timing chain guide wear – see AJ‑V8 Chain Guide Wear page. The AJ133 in the XK shares the same pre‑2013 tensioner risk as the F‑Type. The XK’s interior is luxurious, and its ride is more compliant than the F‑Type’s, making it a better long‑distance cruiser. However, the XK’s older electronics and harder‑to‑find parts can make ownership more challenging. Full specs on the AJ‑V8 Knowledge Centre and AJ133 Knowledge Centre.
The XK’s strengths are style, comfort, and value. Its design is widely regarded as one of Jaguar’s most beautiful modern cars, and its interior is a more traditional, cosseting environment than the F‑Type’s driver‑focused cockpit. The XK’s ride is softer, making it a superb grand tourer for long journeys. Crucially, a good XK can be bought for £10,000–£18,000, while a comparable F‑Type starts at £20,000–£30,000. For those who prioritise classic looks and relaxed cruising over razor‑sharp handling, the XK is a compelling bargain. It also offers the older AJ‑V8 engine, which is simpler and cheaper to repair than the more complex AJ133. However, parts availability is a growing concern, and the XK’s age means more frequent maintenance.
Over a typical 5‑year ownership window, the F‑Type is roughly £1,500–£3,000 cheaper to run than the XK, despite its higher purchase price. This is driven by better fuel economy (the F‑Type is lighter and more aerodynamic), lower servicing costs (modern engines are more efficient and easier to service), and better parts availability. The XK’s older electronics and less common components can lead to higher repair bills and longer wait times. However, the XK’s lower purchase price can offset these costs for the first few years. After five years, the F‑Type typically holds its value better, making it the more cost‑effective long‑term choice. For a detailed breakdown, see our engine replacement cost guide.
Choose the F‑Type. It’s sharper, faster, and more engaging. The AJ126 V6 is a great balance of power and economy, while the AJ133 V8 is a thunderous monster. The F‑Type’s chassis and steering are world‑class.
Choose the XK. Its timeless design and comfortable ride make it a superb cruiser. The AJ‑V8 is charming and affordable to maintain. Just budget for potential electronics gremlins and parts scarcity.
Choose the XK if you’re handy with a spanner – the AJ‑V8 is simpler to work on than the supercharged V6. But if you want modern reliability and support, the F‑Type is the safer bet.
Whichever you choose, the same repair vs replace framework applies when the engine needs attention. Always factor in the vehicle’s current value and the cost of a replacement engine.
Generally, yes. The F‑Type’s engines (AJ126, AJ133) are more modern and have better parts support. The XK’s older AJ‑V8 is simpler but can suffer from chain guide wear, and its electronics are more prone to age‑related issues.
The XK with AJ‑V8 is cheaper at £3,000–£5,500, but the XK with AJ133 and the F‑Type with AJ126 are similar in cost (£4,500–£7,500). The F‑Type’s labour hours are often lower due to better engine bay access.
Yes – if you appreciate classic GT styling and a comfortable ride, the XK offers incredible value. Just be aware of the age‑related maintenance and potential parts scarcity. A well‑maintained XK can be a joy to own.
Jaguar uses a 60% scrap threshold: if the cost of a replacement engine exceeds 60% of the vehicle’s market value, it’s usually cheaper to scrap the car. We explain this in our repair‑or‑replace framework.
53+ Real Enquiries - data from 2025.
15+ Vetted Specialists - independent and experienced.
100% Independent - no manufacturer influence.
Clear Verdict - we name a winner and explain why.
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