FYI: The iconic Jaguar XJ220, revered for its 1990s heritage, continues to captivate car enthusiasts worldwide as one of its rare variants hits the market.
The Birth of a Legend: Jaguar XJ220
The Jaguar XJ220, a groundbreaking supercar of the 1990s, first captured imaginations as a revolutionary concept at the 1988 British International Motor Show. It initially boasted a V12 engine and all-wheel drive system tucked within a lightweight bonded aluminum honeycomb chassis—a testament to engineering prowess. However, as the XJ220 transitioned from concept to production, it adopted a more compact design, including a shorter wheelbase and a rally-derived V6 engine reminiscent of the MG Metro 6R4 rally car.
Racing Heritage
In 1993, Jaguar forged a partnership with Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) to produce the racing-centric XJ220-C, while the XJ220-S was designed to remain road-legal. The project also spawned three special XJ220 variants tailored for Group N specs, anticipated by private racing teams. These unique "N" versions were thrust into the limelight, competing in prestigious races such as the 1993 Italian GT series and the Global GT Endurance Series.
The 1993 Jaguar XJ220-N Up for Grabs
One of these exceptional machines, the 1993 XJ220-N, is now available for sale on Bring A Trailer. This particular model stands as the third and final Group N-spec car crafted by TWR, ordered by Top Run Racing for the 1993 Campionato Italiano Supercar GT Championship. Unlike others, this car, referred to as chassis 003, was never utilized in racing and was eventually sold in 1994.
A Pristine Racing Machine
Preserved in excellent condition, chassis 003 retains its original Spa Silver coat, albeit now enhanced with a 2024 vinyl wrap. This wrap replicates the distinctive livery of the 1993 Italian GT cars, replete with sponsor logos and the number 13, making it an iconic sight for racing aficionados.
Performance and Features
Though a race car at heart, the XJ220-N maintains elements practical for street use, such as a front air dam, a rear spoiler, and retractable headlights. It proudly rests on multipiece BBS wheels shod with Hoosier tires, complemented by Brembo disc brakes for formidable stopping power. Under the hood lies a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged JV6 engine, developed alongside TWR, producing around 700 horsepower. This is coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle and a limited-slip differential, ensuring outstanding performance. The interior is suitably equipped with racing seats, a digital dashboard, and a roll cage, ensuring a blend of safety and high-octane excitement.
Conclusion
The Jaguar XJ220 remains an exceptional blend of racing heritage and road-worthy sophistication. Its continued allure lies not just in its storied racing past, but also in its enduring design and engineering excellence. With its availability on the open market, this 1993 XJ220-N offers a rare opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of automotive history.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
