2007 Arden Jaguar XK AJ 20 Coupe
(from Arden Press Release) Big cat with sharpened claws: Arden Jaguar XK AJ 20 Coupe with up to 480 bhp
- Displacement increase to 4.5 l
- Naturally aspirated and compressor version with 392 and 480 bhp
- Sports silencer system
- 21" wheels in Arden “Sportline” design
- Sports springs or sports suspension
- Stylish interior components
Arden has dedicated itself for over 30 years to the tuning of British cars and is one of the leading addresses for customers looking to emphasise the typical features and customise their Jaguars and Range Rovers. Arden has already devised an extensive range of modifications for the latest XK model from Jaguar. As the Arden Jaguar XK AJ 20 Coupe, this big cat stands out with a displacement-increased engine and offers pure, unadulterated Jaguar enjoyment plus that distinguishing Arden touch.
Jaguar fits the XK as standard with a powerful 4.2 l V8 with 298 bhp / 219 kW and 411 Nm. Arden rebuilds this eight-cylinder engine from scratch and sharpens the claws of this big cat by increasing its displacement. The displacement increase to 4.5 l is achieved by fitting a crankshaft specially produced for Arden, along with new con rods and pistons. Arden optimises the lubrication and the cooling and, in doing so, guarantees a long service life of the components, as it also does through its more than 20 years of experience in the field of Jaguar engine tuning. In conjunction with the modified intake and exhaust systems and sports catalytic converters, the fully recalibrated EMS produces an emphatic but harmonious power boost, whilst retaining the original exhaust gas classification. For drivers, these modifications primarily translate as a vast increase in driving pleasure. The now 4.5 l displacement generates almost 100 extra brake horse power, with the total of 392 bhp (288 kW) and a torque of 475 Nm at 3,800 rpm bringing a smile of satisfaction to the driver’s face. Sprinting in just 5.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h means that it is just under a second faster than the production version. And the top speed of 285 km/h is pretty impressive, too.
Drivers’ eyes light up even brighter when they see the Arden’s compressor version, which puts the Krefeld tuning specialist one step ahead of the British manufacturer, since Jaguar doesn’t currently offer a supercharged engine. Arden elicits an impressive 480 bhp / 353 kW and an awesome torque of 640 Nm at 3,850 rpm from its supercharged 4.5 l V8 engine. The supercharged XK accelerates 0.5 seconds faster to 100 km/h than its Arden naturally aspirated counterpart, and as much as a clear 1.4 seconds faster than the production version. A top speed of 295 km/h makes the XK AJ 20 Coupe the fastest Jaguar currently on the road.
In neutral, the Jaguar XK purrs as softly as a kitten. But watch out when it stretches out its claws! The Arden XK AJ 20 Coupe expresses its additional power in the form of a deep growl, produced by a sports silencer system with the option of either two or four chrome-plated tailpipes. Upon request, the system can be extended at any time up to a performance-enhancing complete system that includes catalytic converters.
With the XK AJ 20 Coupe, Arden contrasts the more delicate appearance of the production version with a muscular look. At the front, the coupe is given an impressive “face” by fitting the Arden front spoiler featuring large air inlets. New side sills, also incorporating air inlets, continue the front design and make the car look lower to the road. Arden swaps the side vents in favour of its own, colour-contrasting versions. Cooling openings in the right and left-hand side of the bonnet (also colour-contrasting like the side vents) create a more sporty appearance. The rear end constitutes the logical conclusion defined by the front design. Like the front section, the rear apron also features cooling openings. To effectively reduce the lift and to make the XK more sure-footed, Arden equips its XK AJ 20 Coupe with a rear spoiler, which blends perfectly into the basic design. A must for every Jaguar enthusiast is the patented Arden bonnet ornament, whose base has been specially angled for the new XK. It is characterised by its attention for detail and both its visual and technically perfect craftsmanship. Its anti-theft system prevents it from being stolen and it is TЬV approved. Consequently, in the event of a collision, it gives way and, in the case of a more severe impact, it even comes away completely, thus minimising the risk of injury.
When out hunting, big cats should always maintain good contact with the ground. For this reason, Arden modifies the suspension. By way of example, the Jaguar specialist provides the XK with a set of Arden sports springs featuring a progressive suspension rate. These springs lower the car’s centre of gravity by approx. 30 mm, which ensures smoother handling particularly in the mid speed range and also lends added visual impact to the dynamic appeal of the vehicle. For drivers of a more sporty inclination, a complete sports suspension with specially produced shock absorbers is currently undergoing testing. To this end, Arden is conducting extensive test drives on public roads and sealed-off race circuits.
The big cat creeps up on its prey on new 21" wheels (FA: 9 x 21" with 255/35R21", RA: 10 x 21" with 295/30 R 21") produced using state-of-the-art machines in the exclusive and further advanced Arden “Sportline” design. In conjunction with the Arden set of suspension springs or a sports suspension, they constantly optimise the road contact and successfully round off the appearance of the Arden XK AJ 20 Coupe.
Arden has also proven to be an expert when it comes to the interior. For instance, the in-house upholsterer and Arden designer joiner’s workshop are responsible for numerous styling components. Anyone who prefers the famous British noblesse can order high-grade wood interior trim inserts. Motor racing fans will opt for sophisticated carbon-fibre trims to adorn the cockpit. Upholsteries in leather or Alcantara lend the car an extra special luxurious atmosphere
Further information on the extensive tuning range from Arden for Jaguar and Range Rover is available online at http://www.arden.de/ or by calling +49 (0)2151 / 3723-0.
© Source: article on seriouswheels.com
