Snapshot: It's not a retro-car but the 2004 Jaguar S-Type is very reminiscent of the classic Mark II of the 60's. Rear-wheel-drive, V-6 powered in normal form. Racy, elegant, and in S-Type R guise carries a supercharged V-8 that eats ordinary sedans for lunch.
How Much?: US Prices for a 2004 Jaguar S-Type sedan go from $43,230 for the 3.0 to $62,455 for the S-Type R.
The Inside Story: Step inside a 2004 Jaguar S-Type and you'll know instantly that you're in a Jaguar. The combination of leather and wood trim plus leather and wood steering wheel is sultry and irresistable. Seating is firm and comfortable, front and rear. There are side-impact airbags up front, and front-and-rear curtain airbags. Standard stability control is another comforting safety items. The controls, however, are too many and too busy. The many luxury features include optional GPS navigation.
Under the Hood: Base engine is a 3.0 liter DOHC V-6 with 235hp. A 4.2 liter V-8 option gets you 293 horses. With the S-Type R you'll get a supercharged 4.2 liter V-8 producing 390 hp.
Transmissions: A state-of-the-art ZF 6-speed automatic is the normal transmission in all 2004 Jaguar S-Type sedans. A 5-speed manual is a no-cost option on the 3.0 model.
Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. 4years/50,000 miles powertrain.
Should You Buy A 2004 Jaguar S-Type?: Yes, if you fall for gorgeous good looks and a sexy interior. Yes, if you like Jaguar's traditional balance between smooth ride and outstanding roadholding. And yes if you appreciate performance, for even the base V-6 moves this cat as if a mad dog was chasing its tail. Passive safety makes the 2004 Jaguar S-Type a reassuring drive, too. If you can afford the extra big ones, the S-Type R's mesh grille, huge Brembo brakes and thrusting power turns this car into a rocket. We know... we got a ticket in the first ten minutes of our test drive.
