FYI: The Jaguar XJ220, a paragon of Jaguar’s racing heritage, achieved remarkable milestones in both speed and engineering in the early 1990s.
Jaguar XJ220: A Speed King of Its Era
The Jaguar XJ220, an illustrious successor to Jaguar’s racing dynasty, made history in 1991 by setting a speed record for production cars, reaching a staggering 212.3 mph in factory condition. A year later, an XJ220 with its catalytic converters removed enhanced this record further to 217.1 mph.
Evolution of the XJ220
Early Concept and Design Changes:
Conceived in the 1980s as a four-wheel-drive V12 powerhouse, the XJ220 underwent significant transformations due to Jaguar’s acquisition by Ford and subsequent production challenges. The final version emerged with a mid-engine, twin-turbo V6, producing an impressive 542 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque.
Challenges and Limited Production
Economic and Manufacturing Hurdles:
The production phase of the XJ220 was marred by economic difficulties, resulting in a reduced delivery count and impacting the vehicle’s reputation. Ultimately, only around 280 units were manufactured over a span of two years.
One such coveted unit, produced on June 18, 1993, is currently listed on Bring A Trailer.
A Prestigious Example for Sale
This particular 1993 Jaguar XJ220, finished in Spa Silver and featuring a Charcoal leather interior, boasts a notable history. It includes past ownership in both Germany and the United States, along with several prestigious concours awards.
Specifications and Features
Under the Hood:
- Twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine
- Five-speed manual transaxle
- Aluminum chassis
- AP Racing brakes
- Numerous luxury components
Currently, the car has only 1,150 kilometers (~700 miles) on its odometer and is presented for sale with extensive documentation of its historic background and ownership.
The Legacy Continues
The Jaguar XJ220 remains a symbol of engineering excellence and racing heritage. Despite its production challenges and limited run, it continues to hold a special place in automotive lore as one of the quintessential supercars of its time.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
Source: Bring A Trailer
