Certified Benz & Beemer Compares 2008 Jaguar XK VS 2008 BMW 3 Near Phoenix, AZ

The XK has standard whiplash protection, which use a specially designed headrest to protect the driver and front passenger from whiplash. During a rear-end collision, the whiplash protection system moves the headrests forward to prevent neck and spine injuries. The 3 Series Convertible doesn’t offer a whiplash protection system.

Both the XK and the 3 Series Convertible have standard driver and passenger frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, head airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control and electronic stability systems to prevent skidding.

The XK8’s standard 4.2 DOHC V8 produces 70 more horsepower (300 vs. 230) and 110 lbs.-ft. more torque (310 vs. 200) than the 328i Convertible’s standard 3.0 DOHC 6 cyl. The XK8’s 4.2 DOHC V8 produces 10 lbs.-ft. more torque (310 vs. 300) than the 335i Convertible’s standard 3.0 turbo 6 cyl. The XKR’s standard 4.2 supercharged V8 produces 120 more horsepower (420 vs. 300) and 113 lbs.-ft. more torque (413 vs. 300) than the 335i Convertible’s standard 3.0 turbo 6 cyl.

The XK has 2.7 gallons more fuel capacity than the 3 Series Convertible (18.8 vs. 16.1 gallons), for longer range between fill-ups.

For better stopping power the XK’s brake rotors are larger than those on the 3 Series Convertible:

The XK’s brakes have 5% more swept area (the area covered by the brake pads) than the 3 Series Convertible (539 vs. 511 square inches), so the XK has more braking power available.

For better traction, the XK has larger standard tires than the 3 Series Convertible (F:245/45R18 & R:255/45R18 vs. 225/45R17). The XK’s optional tires are larger than the largest tires available on the 3 Series Convertible (F:255/35R20 & R:285/30R20 vs. F:225/40R18 & R:255/35R18).

The XK’s optional 255/35R20 front and 285/30R20 rear tires provide better handling because they have a lower 35 series front and 30 series rear profile (height to width ratio), which provides a stiffer sidewall than the 3 Series Convertible’s optional 40 series front and 35 series rear tires.

For better ride, handling and brake cooling the XK has standard 18-inch wheels. Smaller 17-inch wheels are standard on the 3 Series Convertible. The XK’s optional 20-inch wheels are larger than the 18-inch wheels optional on the 3 Series Convertible.

The XK has a standard space-saver spare tire so you can replace a flat tire and drive to have the flat repaired or replaced. A spare tire isn’t available on the 3 Series Convertible, it requires you to depend on its run-flat tires, which limits mileage and speed before they are repaired. If a run-flat is damaged beyond repair by a road hazard your vehicle will have to be towed. Some models of the 3 Series Convertible don’t even offer run-flats.

The XK has a standard continuously variable suspension system. Using sensors on steering angle, speed and other driver inputs, the shocks soften to improve ride, or stiffen when appropriate to aid handling on tricky roads. The 3 Series Convertible’s suspension doesn’t offer adjustable shock absorbers.

The XK Convertible handles at .87 G’s, while the 328i Convertible pulls only .86 G’s of cornering force in a Car and Driver skidpad test.

For better maneuverability, the XK’s turning circle is 2.9 feet tighter than the 3 Series Convertible’s (33.2 feet vs. 36.1 feet).

With its convertible body style, valet key and remote trunk release lockout, the XK offers cargo security. The 3 Series Convertible’s non-lockable folding seat defeats cargo security.

Unlike the driver-only memory system in the 3 Series Convertible, the XK has standard driver and passenger memory, so that when drivers switch, the memory setting adjusts the driver’s seat, steering wheel position and outside mirror angle and the front passenger seat also adjusts to the new passenger’s preset preferences.

The XK’s standard easy entry system raises the steering wheel, making it easier for the driver to get in and out. The 3 Series Convertible doesn’t offer an easy entry system.

The 3 Series Convertible’s standard power locks don’t automatically lock the doors. The XK’s standard doors lock when a certain speed is reached. This is an important feature for occupant safety. Locked doors are proven to open less often in collisions, and they are also effective in preventing crime at traffic lights. (The power lock’s automatic feature may have to be activated by your dealer.)