They say that power and beauty remain unaffordable for the common man. This stunning 2006 Jaguar S-type R proves otherwise
Most respective gearheads view Jaguar’s reincarnated S-type as the ultimate ‘Grandad wagon’. However, usher such a phrase to the supercharged V8 S-type R, and it’ll take you round back for a merciless flogging. Electronically limited to 155mph, screaming from nought to 60mph in 5.3 seconds, and prowling along with an outright sense of menace, this is not your typical OAP barge.
The svelte curves look especially mischievous when draped in black, a color that irons out the big cat’s voluptuous shape, and reinforces road presence with a serious bout of intimidation. Regardless of your activity, you’ll forever look like a troublemaker behind the wheel of this 2006 S-type R, currently offered by GRautogallery.
Skulking along the freeway, with bright red callipers and that burning ‘R’ motif upon the trunk lid and front wings, only the bravest in society’s roster would dare take you on. Even then, they’ll regret it. With 388lb ft of torque underfoot, few other sedans will offer any competition for the top lane.
To sweeten the deal, you’ll pull away in serene comfort. Even standard cars wanted for nothing, with air conditioning, powered front sports seats trimmed in the finest leather, cruise control and in-built Sat Nav.
Contemporary critics claim that the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG are better choices for supercar power in retro four-door form. However, while the Germans offer a better all-round machine on paper, they remain devoid of the caddish charm so persistent at allowing driver and machine to bond.
The S-type R serves up refinement, direct feedback, and outright grunt with mannerisms only Jaguar has ever been able to master. It’s not just a faster version of the somewhat-twee S-type. This is a totally different beast, as GRautogallery’s example proves.
As a later specimen, the 2006 Jag bears a face-lifted front end; boasting a sport-mesh grill that commands attention. The cabin oozes panache, laden with premium black leather and marbled wood trim. There’s also a heated leather steering wheel, heated seats, and an Alpine Premium Brand sound system. As road rockets go, this Brit packs all the punches.
Buying a used Jaguar can often leave new owners reaching feverishly for their newly-prescribed Valium, but this example is pretty much perfect. The previous owner took fastidious care of the S-type R, leaving nothing to chance. The drivetrain has therefore been fully serviced on a regular basis, and every perishable aspect has been replaced. As such, the Jaguar performs as new.
The price? Well, this chunk of British automotive supremacy retails at $8900. It’s far from Bangernomics territory, but in terms of ‘car for the money’, nothing comes close. It’s all the performance of a Ferrari 328 GTB, without the marque stigma and running costs. Get a closer look at the immaculate 2006 Jaguar S-type R here. We can promise that you won't be disappointed.
