Which is the right SHOCK ABSORBER for the XK8 (X100)?

[Ken Briffa]

Hello,

My 2001 model year XK8 (not CATS) requires the original shocks changed both front and back on my car.
I have been looking into replacing my shocks with a sportier set to go with my already installed ARDEN (stiffer and lowering 2/3 cm).
I cannot understand Bilstein's range even writing to them and using their online configurator.

In short, British parts lists three types of Bilstein Shocks. I would like to get a firmer sportier ride and would need NON CATS of course. Which one is good for me?

Below British Parts UK lists the following:

1) Bilstein standard replacement shock absorbers (dampers): These are well priced and they say:
"FRONT No: 24-067263 Shock Absorber with Std Suspension;
REAR No: 24-067270 shock absorber with std suspension"

2) Bilstein for R Performance cars:
FRONT R performance options No: 20-070816 (Jaguar XK8 & XKR 2003 to 2006 from vin A30645)
REAR R performance options No: 20-070823 (link harness also required when installing these shock absorbers)

3) Bilstein for CATS suspension:
REAR No: 20-070847 Jaguar XK8 & XKR 2003 to 2006 from vin A30645 With adaptive control damping (excludes R performance cars)
FRONT No. 20-070830 Jaguar XK8 & XKR 2003 to 2006 from vin A30645 With adaptive damping (excludes R performance cars)

In conclusion, is choice 2) for NON CATS cars?
But then, 2) being for post 2003, would exclude my 2001 model.
I do not understand this as, as far as I know, the 2003 model base XK8 did not have any special suspension.

Reading Bilstein literature it would appear that their range consists of:
B4 - standard
B6 - sports
B8 - sports and for use with lowering springs

Please help!

Ken

[Ken Briffa]

Did the "R Performance full suspension and steering pack" ALWAYS include CATS damping (chock Absorbers)?