The Super V8 Portfolio is built off the long-wheelbase aluminum monocoque chassis of the XJ LWB sedan, and it has the same 125-mm
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| The Super V8 Portfolio is built off the long-wheelbase aluminum monocoque chassis of the XJ LWB sedan. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
(5-inch) longer wheelbase, and 7-mm (0.28-inch) taller overall height. Despite being one of the biggest and roomiest cars in the F-Segment, with nearly a metre (about 39 inches) of rear legroom, the XJ LWB is the lightest, weighing in at just 24 kilos (53 lbs) more than the standard wheelbase model, thanks to its innovative aluminum-intensive design. Compared to equivalently equipped rivals, XJ LWB models (including the Portfolio) weigh roughly 100 kilos (222 lbs) less, making for a quicker, nimbler and more economical luxury car. More on that later, though. What sets the Super V8 Portfolio apart from the long-wheelbase Super V8
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| Like all Jaguar 'R' performance models, the Portfolio integrates wire mesh as its grille surface. (Photo: Jaguar Canada) |
model are its unique styling cues, influenced by the Concept Eight show car. At rest the Portfolio sits lower to the ground, hunkered down on its contemporary 20-inch 'Callisto' wheels that use the same high-gloss finish and design as the show car's rims. The drop in ride height also promotes a wider, more sporting stance, which is a complete turnaround from the standard Long Wheelbase's ordinary, and more conservative, look. Like all Jaguar 'R' performance models, the Portfolio integrates wire mesh as its grille surface, though the casing is chrome, rather than body-colour finish, creating a richer appearance overall.
