I have been researching various options in getting my 2007 Jaguar XK (X150) 4.2 normally aspirated engine to sound like the true 4.2 liter engine as it was designed. I like the factory sound that was developed but, it bothered me that the sound was engineered/modified through various valves that seemed artificial. Yes, I realize one could argue that the existence of a muffler, silencer, catalytic converter or for that matter a tail pipe is an engineered modification. I wanted a slightly deeper tone but, not one that resonated throughout the cabin when traveling on the Interstate/motorway/highway/freeway system at speed.
After a lengthy search which included converting the exhaust to the XK-R back box, I decided on Mina Gallery Performance Exhaust developed for the XK.
The stainless steel Mina Gallery exhaust looks very nice and feels very solid. The hardware included in the kit was also sturdy and had the feeling of substance. It was definitely not thin nor vulnerable to breaking when used properly. The rear dam was also well made and fastened easily to the location where the factory rear dam was removed. In total, it took about 1 hour.
The Mina Gallery performance exhaust provided exactly what I was looking for in the deeper sound at idle and acceleration. Surprisingly and pleasantly, the sound in the cabin at causing speed (75 mph) on the Interstate highway is slightly quieter than the factory exhaust. That may be a function of my wishful thinking, but the difference at that stage is at least unnoticeable. If I accelerate the car and raise the rpms, yes, the deep tone appears, but then quickly settles down to normal cruise once the increase demand on the engine is gone.
In conclusion, I love the enhancement. It was worth every penny!
If anyone is interested, I have before & after sound clips and pictures.