Used test: Jaguar F-Type Coupe vs Porsche 911 – three years on
In 2014, the Jaguar F-Type Coupe first took on the Porsche 911. Three years on, how are both cars shaping up – and which looks like the best used buy?...
Our Verdict
This V6 S form is the sweet spot of the Jaguar F-Type range. Three years down the line, it’s still extremely handsome, and has sensational presence on the road. What’s more, it is enormous fun to drive, and it makes a fantastic noise.
But the F-Type’s real trump card is price. Buying one of these cars new will set you back two thirds as much as an equivalent Porsche 911, and that difference is hard to swallow. On a budget of £40,000 or so, the best 911 you’ll get is a generation older, and will have considerably more miles on the clock. At that price point, therefore, we’d recommend the Jaguar without hesitation, despite its slightly clunky gearbox.
If you’ve got more to spend, though – say, the £60,000 a three-year-old 911 Carrera with decent mileage will set you back – it’s doubtless the one to choose. While the F-Type is fun, the 911 is genuinely phenomenal in terms of its handling and pace. What’s more, its interior is classier, and it’s even more practical.
Yes, for £60,000 you can get a nearly-new F-Type. But we still reckon the slightly older Porsche will give you more satisfaction in the long run. And talking of the long run, it’ll hold its value better than a newer F-Type, meaning you’ll see more of your money back come resale time. So while a greater price difference makes the Jaguar F-Type even more compelling this time around, the Porsche 911 still nicks the win.
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1st – Porsche 911
For Staggering pace and handling; classier interior; more practical
Against Road noise; limited equipment as standard; high price
Verdict One of the best sports cars ever
Rated 5 out of 5
2nd – Jaguar F-Type Coupe
For Stunning looks; fun to drive; noise; cheaper to buy and run
Against Heavier (and feels it); less responsive gearbox; clunky infotainment
Verdict A strong contender if your budget is tight
Rated 4 out of 5
Specifications: Porsche 911 Carrera PDK
Engine size 3.4-litre petrol
List price when new £75,897
Price today £60,000
Power 345bhp
Torque 288lb ft
0-60mph 4.3sec
Top speed 178mph
Fuel economy 34.4mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 191g/km
Specifications: Jaguar F-Type Coupe
Engine size 3.0-litre petrol
List price when new £60,250
Price today £39,000
Power 375bhp
Torque 339lb ft
0-60mph 4.7sec
Top speed 171mph
Fuel economy 32.1mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 209g/km
Price today is based on a 2014 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
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