Standard Drive, Sport Mode (for more aggressive shift points).
Fluid Specifications
Fluid Type:
Dexron III / Mercon automatic transmission fluid.
Fluid Capacity
Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 Liters (3.7 Quarts) for a drain and fill.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
5014 mm (197.4 inches)
Width:
1838 mm (72.4 inches)
Height:
1380 mm (54.3 inches)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
2888 mm (113.7 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
1850 kg (4079 lbs) - Approximate
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA in the modern sense; relied on internal testing and European standards of the era.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on market, likely Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Alpine or Jaguar branded), likely with cassette and CD player.
Climate Control
System:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Cellular Integration:
N/A (No built-in Bluetooth or smartphone integration for this era).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for precise Jaguar recommendation).
Transmission Service Interval:
Fluid and filter change every 60,000 miles or 48 months. (Consult manual for precise recommendation).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 5 years or 100,000 miles, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles. (Consult manual).
Spark Plugs:
Long-life platinum-tipped spark plugs, typically good for 100,000 miles. (Consult manual for specific type, e.g., Champion or NGK).
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific Jaguar approval).
Power Steering Fluid:
Jaguar specified power steering fluid or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III may be compatible, but verify with manual).
Known Issues
Head Gasket:
While the AJ-V8 was an improvement, early versions of the V8 (pre-AJ27) could be prone to head gasket issues under certain conditions. The supercharged version typically received specific attention. The manual will detail inspection and repair procedures.
Nikasil Liners:
Early AJ-V8 engines (prior to the 1998 model year, and sometimes even into it) utilized Nikasil cylinder liners, which could be susceptible to degradation from high sulfur content fuel. The 1997 XJR's engine may or may not have this feature, and the manual will provide guidance on inspection and potential remedies. Later engines adopted an aluminum block with iron liners.
Supercharger Belt:
Regular inspection and replacement of the supercharger drive belt is crucial for maintaining performance and preventing potential engine damage if it fails.
Electronics:
As with many luxury vehicles of this era, complex electronic systems can be a source of issues. The manual's detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures are essential.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Jaguar's long-standing reputation for luxury, performance, and distinctive styling.
Model Evolution
X300 Platform:
The X300 generation marked a return to Jaguar's classic styling cues while incorporating modern engineering and safety standards.
Production
Production Years:
X300 generation: 1994-1997. The XJR was a specific high-performance variant within this series.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 1997 XJR itself are not widely documented, the AJ-V8 engine received critical acclaim for its smooth power delivery and refinement. Jaguar vehicles of this period were generally recognized for their blend of luxury and driving dynamics.