A Legend on the Road and Screen
The Jaguar F-Type is more than just a car—it’s an icon that blends timeless British elegance with breathtaking performance. Since its launch in 2013, the F-Type has captured the hearts of celebrities, film directors, and car enthusiasts worldwide. With its unmistakable silhouette, visceral exhaust note, and thrilling driving dynamics, the F-Type continues to stand as a symbol of passion and power.
Famous owners of the F-Type include David Beckham, known for his refined taste in luxury vehicles, and actor Tom Hiddleston, who famously drove an F-Type Coupe in Jaguar’s “Good to be Bad” advertising campaign. The F-Type has also graced the silver screen, featuring prominently in “Spectre” (2015), where a custom F-Type SVR Convertible was used as a chase vehicle. Its roaring V8 soundtrack became a character of its own in the Bond universe.
The F-Type has also been a star at global events, often showcased at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, where its growling exhaust has reverberated through the hillsides. Additionally, Jaguar has used the F-Type as a platform to celebrate its racing heritage, with models like the Project 7 concept paying homage to Jaguar’s Le Mans victories.
Whether as a celebrity-owned showpiece, a Bond villain’s getaway car, or the centrepiece at a motorsport event, the F-Type embodies drama, performance, and exclusivity. With variants ranging from the approachable 2.0L turbo to the fire-breathing SVR, the F-Type offers something for every enthusiast. Let’s explore what makes each model unique, how they’ve evolved, and how to pick the best one for your budget.
The Jaguar F-Type Lineup
F-Type Base (2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4)
Performance:
The base F-Type features a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 296 hp and 400 Nm of torque. It’s the lightest in the range, emphasizing agility and efficiency.
Design Features:
Single central oval exhaust and a clean, understated rear design.
Slim LED headlights and Jaguar’s signature flowing silhouette.
Exhaust Note:
While quieter than the V6 and V8, the i4 provides a sporty note that emphasizes refinement over aggression.
Best For:
Drivers seeking an affordable entry point to the F-Type line-up with excellent fuel efficiency and manageable power.
F-Type S (3.0L Supercharged V6)
Performance:
The F-Type S delivers 380 hp from its 3.0L supercharged V6, offering a balanced mix of power and dynamic handling.
Design Features:
Dual central exhausts with a subtle rear diffuser for added aerodynamic flair.
More aggressive wheels and suspension tuning compared to the base model.
Exhaust Note:
The V6 growls with character, especially in dynamic mode, producing crackles and pops on overrun.
Best For:
Enthusiasts who value an engaging driving experience and the signature Jaguar sound without stepping into V8 territory.
F-Type R (5.0L Supercharged V8)
Performance:
The F-Type R ramps up the power with a 5.0L supercharged V8 producing 550 hp, coupled with AWD for added grip and confidence.
Design Features:
Quad exhausts and a pronounced rear diffuser for a more muscular look.
Larger air intakes and aggressive styling elements up front.
Exhaust Note:
The V8’s roar is deep and thunderous, with theatrical pops and crackles that amplify its dramatic presence.
Best For:
Drivers seeking the visceral thrill of a powerful V8 and a more aggressive aesthetic.
F-Type SVR (5.0L Supercharged V8 with Track Enhancements)
Performance:
The F-Type SVR pushes the limits with 575 hp and track-focused enhancements like a titanium exhaust and carbon fibre components.
Design Features:
Fixed rear wing and bold aerodynamic upgrades for maximum downforce.
Distinctive carbon fibre accents throughout.
Exhaust Note:
The titanium exhaust produces a sharper, more ferocious sound with pronounced overrun crackles.
Best For:
Collectors and track enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of F-Type performance and exclusivity.
Best F-Type for Your Budget
£30,000 Budget
Best Option: 2015 Jaguar F-Type V6 (Base)
Why: At this price point, the supercharged 3.0L V6 F-Type offers an ideal entry into Jaguar's performance line-up. Its 340 hp engine provides engaging performance, and the hydraulic steering in pre-facelift models is prized by purists.
Depreciation Insight: These models have already reached the bottom of their depreciation curve, with well-maintained examples retaining steady value. As Jaguar moves toward electrification, demand for classic combustion-engine Jaguars is likely to increase.
Future Potential: Early V6 F-Types are becoming modern classics, especially models in excellent condition with full-service histories.
£40,000 Budget
Best Option: 2016 Jaguar F-Type S (V6)
Why: The F-Type S builds on the base V6 with a power increase to 380 hp, improved suspension tuning, and more aggressive styling. AWD options make it more versatile, and its exhaust note is widely considered one of the best in the segment.
Depreciation Insight: The S has levelled out in terms of value, particularly AWD-equipped models, which offer broader appeal.
Future Potential: Enthusiasts increasingly seek V6-powered sports cars as they balance performance and running costs better than V8s. The F-Type S represents a sweet spot of value and enjoyment.
£50,000 Budget
Best Option: 2016/2017 Jaguar F-Type R (V8)
Why: The F-Type R introduces the thrilling 550 hp supercharged V8, all-wheel-drive stability, and iconic quad exhausts. This model delivers near-SVR performance at a fraction of the cost, with dramatic styling and unmatched driving presence.
Depreciation Insight: Having passed the steepest part of its depreciation curve, the F-Type R is now a highly sought-after V8 sports car. Well-kept examples with lower mileage are poised to retain value as fewer manufacturers offer V8-powered vehicles.
Future Potential: The F-Type R is likely to see renewed interest in the future due to its visceral performance and the dwindling availability of V8 engines in modern sports cars.
£60,000 Budget
Best Option: 2016/2017 Jaguar F-Type SVR
Why: The SVR is the ultimate evolution of the F-Type, boasting 575 hp, titanium exhausts, lightweight enhancements, and track-focused aerodynamics. Its rarity and exclusivity make it a collector’s dream.
Depreciation Insight: With production numbers far lower than other F-Type variants, the SVR’s value has remained relatively stable compared to the R. As an end-of-era Jaguar, its exclusivity makes it an appealing long-term investment.
Future Potential: As Jaguar transitions to electric vehicles, combustion-powered special editions like the SVR are likely to appreciate, especially those with unique features like titanium exhausts and carbon fibre components.
£70,000 Budget
Best Option: 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 (Special Edition)
Why: The R75 celebrates 75 years of Jaguar sports cars with unique badging, bespoke colour options, and a refined version of the 575 hp V8. It offers the latest tech, enhanced chassis dynamics, and collectible appeal.
Depreciation Insight: While new cars experience initial depreciation, the R75’s limited production run and commemorative nature ensure it will stabilize quickly and retain value well in the long term.
Future Potential: As a final combustion-engine Jaguar F-Type, the R75 will likely become a sought-after collector’s item, particularly well-maintained low-mileage examples.
High-End Alternatives: Lister Stealth Edition & Project 7
Price Range: £100,000+ (Used Market)
Why: The Lister LFT Edition is a bespoke evolution of the F-Type R, featuring a monstrous 666 hp, upgraded aerodynamics, and bold styling. It’s designed for exclusivity and outrageous performance, appealing to those seeking a unique take on the F-Type formula. The Project 7, on the other hand, whilst limited to 250 worldwide is 45kg lighter than the standard f-type and still outputs an amazing 575bhp. It only reaches a 0-60 of 3.8 seconds, compared to the Lister's 3.2 seconds, however, due to their limited numbers this car is surely going to hold its value more consistently in comparison.
Depreciation Insight: Limited production ensures the Stealth and Project 7 retain exclusivity, but their highly niche appeal means value fluctuations may depend on market trends.
Future Potential: As a rare tuner-based F-Type with immense performance credentials, the Lister LCT and Project 7 Editions have strong potential as a niche collector’s car.
Summary of Budget Picks
£30,000: 2015 F-Type V6 – Affordable entry point with minimal depreciation risk and rising classic appeal.
£40,000: 2016 F-Type S – Balanced performance with stabilizing values and enthusiast interest.
£50,000: 2016/2017 F-Type R – All-around powerhouse with future V8 scarcity boosting demand.
£60,000: 2016/2017 F-Type SVR – Exclusive and likely to appreciate as Jaguar phases out combustion engines.
£70,000: R75 Special Edition – A modern masterpiece with collectible status built in.
£100,000+: Lister LCT or Project 7 – Outrageous and exclusive options for ultimate individuality.