Used test: Jaguar F-Type vs Porsche 911

Our verdict

Here’s the big question: would you rather have the better all-rounder, the Porsche 911, or trouser a saving of more than £20,000 on the imperfect but exciting Jaguar F-Type?

Both are a good buy in their own right. The 911 makes the most sense for those who need an everyday sports car, because it is hugely practical with a deep boot in the nose, along with back seats that can be folded flat and used as a storage shelf. It’s also much faster in the real world than the F-Type, thanks to its immense grip levels, immediate steering and impressive road manners. Excessive road noise and a disappointing engine tone are the only major blots on its scorecard.

That said, £20,000 is a significant chunk of change to save on a car, so it does make the F-Type very tempting. However, you ought to consider future depreciation; while the F-Type has lost a lot already, it is likely to continue doing so, even if perhaps not to the same extent. The 911, on the other hand, has barely lost any money compared with its new car price. True, it will wilt a little when the new model comes along, but not to the same extent that the F-Type has and will continue to do.

So, all things considered, the Jaguar F-Type makes a worthy runner-up here, due mostly to its raw driving experience and brutish engine; it’s just that it has too many foibles to prevent it from beating the 911. The Porsche 911 is expensive, but it's one of the best used sports cars around, come rain or shine.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here

1st – Porsche 911

For Stunning performance; brilliant handling; quality interior

Against Road noise; not a lot of standard equipment

Verdict A better all-rounder than the F-Type

Rated 5 out of 5

Porsche 911 review

Used Porsche 911s for sale >>

2nd – Jaguar F-Type

For Gorgeous-sounding engine; entertaining handling; well equipped

Against Limited traction; so-so interior quality; low-speed ride

Verdict Good fun, but not the best everyday car

Rated 4 out of 5

Jaguar F-Type review

Used Jaguar F-Types for sale >>

Specifications: Porsche 911 Carrera S PDK

Engine size 3.0-litre petrol

List price when new £85,857

Price today £80,000

Power 414bhp

Torque 369lb ft

0-60mph 3.5sec

Top speed 190mph

Fuel economy 36.7mpg (official average)

CO2 emissions 174g/km

Specifications: Jaguar F-Type Coupe 5.0 V8 SC R

Engine size 5.0-litre petrol

List price when new £86,810

Price today £58,000

Power 542bhp

Torque 502lb ft

0-60mph 4.3sec

Top speed 186mph

Fuel economy 26.4mpg (official average)

CO2 emissions 255g/km

Price today is based on a 2016 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing

**[