All--Just 57 Mazr Coupe/GT cars with 6MT and Clutch were brought into USA as 2006MY. SO, if "rare" is what you are looking for...them's the one.

As for Jag XJR, the X308 bodies (Series VI) were made from '97 to '03. They featured Jag's FIRST EVER V-8, a 4L normal or supercharged version. Went to 4.2L in '04 and slightly different body. Most say the X308 is most attractive Jag XJ ever. But, beauty is in eye of beholder.

 

These bad reputation of replacing the clutch for Maserati Coupes or QP every 10 to 15k miles only applies to the F1 (Automated manual gearbox).

For the true 6 manual, stick shift, 3 pedal or however it's referred now this bad rep does not apply. I know because I own a Maserati Coupe GT 3 pedal (manual 6 speed) with close to 90k miles with original clutch and still going. No sign of giving up still. : )

It's quite unfortunate that the bad clutch rep and bad F1 system maintenance of of the Maserati CC and QP (auto gearbox F1) is some how including the 3 pedals in the generalization of the public. These bad rep doesn't apply to the 3 pedals.

My guess is because there's not much 3 pedals out there to overpower the bad stigma with the CC and QP F1 system. Last time I checked there are only 10% of the whole production of Coupes that are true manual (3 pedal).

 

Well, GREAT to hear 90k miles on Mazr 6MT with Clutch!! That is more like what I would expect as "normal wear." I do, however, have receipt showing another "data point." Previous owner of my car replaced Clutch at 24363 miles (13 Sept 2013). Cost = $54495.90 (parts and labor). In fairness, he was young and I am not at all sure he knew how to drive (properly) a manual trans with clutch.

Take some advice from an "old guy:"

1. Do NOT push clutch in to Start. Not necessary!! Check "neutral gate," then turn key. Keep your left foot ON THE FLOOR !!

2. FULLY DEPRESS clutch pedal for each shift. (See Owner's Manual)

3. You can EASILY "skip" shifts. 2, 3, 5 or 2, 3,6 or 2, 4, 5 or 2, 4, 6.

4. Forget the "showy" downshifts. Brakes are much cheaper to replace than a clutch.

5. Engage clutch at MINIMUM RPM. NO slip!! Nearly "stall" engine as clutch engages, then gentle acceleration to get the car off the line and up to speed. Takes "touch" and practice. (I do better "barefooted." Otherwise, I occasionally "stall" at a light. (How embarrassing !!!)

For me, there is NO better value on earth than a sleek looking, fast running (181 mph), robust, reliable Ferrari engine under a Maserati Coupe/GT hood and handling characteristics last seen on a "skateboard!!!

EHT
TMC
Aiken, SC