The 2003 Jaguar S-Type R is the supercharged, high-output version of Jaguar’s S-Type sedan. Its defining hardware is a 4.2-liter V8 with a mechanically driven Eaton supercharger and twin intercoolers. Published horsepower figures differ: MotorWeek reports 400 hp, while Edmunds lists 390 hp for the US-market model; both give 408 lb-ft of torque.
What makes the 2003 S-Type R different?
The R is not simply an appearance package. MotorWeek’s 2003 road test describes a 4.2-liter AJ-V8 fitted with an Eaton supercharger driven mechanically by the engine, plus twin intercoolers. The car also has R-specific visual cues, including red R badging and staggered-width 18-inch Zeus alloy wheels.
MotorWeek describes the suspension as Jaguar’s Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS), an automatically controlled, two-stage damping system. Its road test also lists four-wheel disc ABS, large front vented discs, Brembo four-piston aluminum front calipers and panic brake assist. These are model features, not evidence of how well the systems work on an individual used car.
2003 Jaguar S-Type R specifications
| Item | Published specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.2-liter supercharged V8; MotorWeek identifies an AJ-V8 with an Eaton supercharger and twin intercoolers. |
| Horsepower | 400 hp in MotorWeek’s 2003 road test; 390 hp on Edmunds’ US-market specification page accessed in 2026. |
| Torque | 408 lb-ft in both MotorWeek’s road test and Edmunds’ US-market listing. |
| Transmission | Six-speed automatic; MotorWeek identifies it as a ZF unit. |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive, according to Edmunds’ US-market listing. |
| 0–60 mph | 5.3 seconds, as reported by MotorWeek’s 2003 road test. |
| Fuel economy | 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway EPA estimates on Edmunds’ US-market page, which also specifies premium unleaded. These are estimates, not a prediction of real-world fuel use. |
Why do sources disagree on horsepower?
MotorWeek’s 2003 road test gives the S-Type R 400 hp, while Edmunds’ US-market specification page lists 390 hp. Both sources report 408 lb-ft. The available sources do not establish why the horsepower figures differ, so neither number should be treated as an uncontested universal specification.
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- Brand new box, Comes in a blister pack.
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- Die-cast metal body and chassis
What ownership documents and support are available?
Find the right workshop manual
The Original Technical Publications catalog lists Service Manual—Jaguar S-Type (X200) V6 V8 + S-Type ‘R’ 1998 to 2003, publication code X200WKSME. The catalog also lists a separate manual for 2004–2008. Before buying a manual, match the model year, market and edition to the car and check exactly what the listing includes; the catalog listing does not establish current retailer stock.
A workshop manual is a reference, not a substitute for qualified help with safety-critical repairs. Jaguar’s iGuide asks for a VIN to align digital information with the car’s market and specification, while warning that older models may not be covered in the system. A VIN-specific digital guide and a printed service manual are separate documentation options.
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Check parts and servicing locally
Jaguar UK promotes S-Type genuine parts and servicing, and says genuine parts carry a 24-month warranty; check the terms and market eligibility with Jaguar. Jaguar USA says its service network remains operational and that parts will continue to be supported. These manufacturer statements do not guarantee a particular part is available from every retailer or in every market, so confirm stock and service options with a local Jaguar retailer.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to verify when considering a used example
Published model specifications cannot establish the condition, service history, safety or reliability of a 23-year-old car. Treat the specific vehicle—not the model’s reputation—as the purchase decision.
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- 【❗Fitment (Vehicle Compatibility)❗:】 Intended For Jaguar S-Type 2003 R (4.2L Supercharged V8) ; Designed To Match Oe-Style Electrical Connections And Mounting Locations.
- ✅【 Function (Part Description):】 Direct-Replacement Ignition Coil Pack Engineered To Send The Spark Required For Normal Operation In 4.2L Supercharged Jaguar S-Type R Models.
- ✅【 Replacement Reason (Service Description):】 Commonly Replaced If Coils Exhibit Intermittent Misfires, Reduced Spark Output, Or Physical Damage To Terminals/Housing.
- ✅【 Construction and Material:】 Sealed Housing With Reinmoved Coil Windings And Terminals To Maintain Reliable Electrical Contact.
- ✅【 Testing and Installation:】 Electrical Output And Connector Fit Are Verified During Quality Checks; Installs Using Factory Hardware And Standard Tools.
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- Brand new box. Soft black tires. Colorful decal artwork. Poseable front wheels. Vintage style packaging. Chrome windshield frame. Officially licensed product. Chrome plated small parts. Contains 142 detailed parts. Paint and cement required (not included). Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Choice of right and left-hand driver positions. Parts molded in RED, unless otherwise indicated. "Chrome" trim detail can be striped on with silver paint. Detailed 3.8 lt. 6 cylinder engine and tubular sub frame. Dimensions approximately L-6.75 inches long assembled.
- Confirm the VIN, model year and original market specification, then verify that the car is an S-Type R rather than a standard S-Type.
- Review service records and check that the manual and parts information you use match the car’s year and specification.
- Arrange an inspection by a qualified Jaguar or specialist technician before purchase, especially for systems whose condition cannot be inferred from a specification sheet.
- Use comparable, sourced data before judging the R against another performance sedan; the figures here describe the Jaguar and do not establish a comparative winner.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
