As Jagaur’s first manufacturing supercar, the XJ220 was a daring step for the British firm. Wanting on the firm’s historical past, one must return to the XK120 to seek out an equally spectacular machine. Within the forty years between these fashions, there are many LeMans-winning race vehicles and putting styling ideas, however nothing that pushes the identical efficiency thresholds whereas sustaining manufacturing readiness.
Ultimately, the XJ220 would change into the quickest Jaguar and the quickest manufacturing automotive on the planet, reaching 217 mph. Different accolades embody a category first at Le Mans and a full manufacturing run of over 200 vehicles.
The XK220 was first designed by Technical Director Jim Randle and a small group often called “The Saturday Membership”. They witnessed the launch of the Porsche 959, a four-wheel-drive supercar ready for Group B racing. .
From the beginning of the automotive, Randle’s crew maintained manufacturing feasibility and racing efficiency. This naturally meant that the V12 was mounted in the course of a light-weight aluminum chassis. It was equipped by Tom Walkinshaw Racing who produced a 6.2 liter model of their racing engine. 4-wheel drive was chosen to higher distribute the estimated 500 bhp in circumstances reminiscent of rain which was widespread in Britain.
Picture supply: Classic | Vehicles @oldtimegarage
