Ex-Stig Buys his Dream Supercar

Summary

In this exhilarating video, automotive enthusiast Ben reveals his latest purchase: a 1994 Jaguar XJ220 hypercar, a machine once considered unreachable. Joined by car expert Mike Fernie, they delve into the car’s incredible engineering, its rich motorsport heritage, and the impact of design decisions that made it a groundbreaking vehicle in the 90s. Alongside humor, banter, and a bit of chaos, the duo explores the car’s legacy, discussing everything from the history of TWR and Jaguar Sport to the nuances of driving such a rare and powerful machine.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Jaguar XJ220 was a groundbreaking hypercar, debuting at the 1988 British Motor Show and quickly selling out with 1,200 orders, including from celebrities.
• 😀 At the time of its release in 1992, the XJ220 was the fastest, most expensive car ever made, costing around 1 million dollars (adjusted for inflation).
• 😀 The XJ220 was designed using racing technology by Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR), blending art, chemistry, and physics to create a revolutionary vehicle.
• 😀 The car was a technological marvel, capable of reaching speeds of 217 mph, setting the standard for performance in the early '90s.
• 😀 Ben, the presenter, is introduced as the owner of a 1994 Jaguar XJ220, and his excitement over the car contrasts with the fact that he has never owned a hypercar before.
• 😀 Mike Fernie, a fellow automotive YouTuber, is brought in to provide expert commentary on the XJ220's history, design, and significance.
• 😀 The blindfolded reveal of the XJ220 to Mike Fernie adds an element of surprise and humor, with a playful exchange between the two presenters.
• 😀 The script also touches on the car’s practical issues, such as the complicated fuel tank replacement, which is a common challenge for owners of rare, low-mileage cars.
• 😀 The car’s engineering features, like the honeycomb chassis and a V6 turbo engine, were designed with weight reduction and endurance in mind, making it more efficient than some other cars of the era.
• 😀 The XJ220’s racing pedigree and involvement in Le Mans, despite being disqualified after winning, further emphasizes its high-performance nature and legacy in motorsport history.
• 😀 The script highlights the lasting appeal of the XJ220, with the presenters comparing it to other iconic '90s hypercars like the Ferrari F40 and McLaren F1, underscoring its place in the history of automotive engineering.

Q & A

What makes the Jaguar XJ220 such a special car in automotive history?

The Jaguar XJ220 is considered one of the first true hypercars due to its groundbreaking design, technology, and performance. It was the fastest car in the world upon its release in 1992, reaching a top speed of 217 mph. The car was a product of Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR), and its engineering was a fusion of racing technology and luxury automotive design.

How did the Jaguar XJ220's production process differ from typical cars of its time?

The Jaguar XJ220's production was unique due to its heavy reliance on motorsport technology. The car used a lightweight honeycomb chassis structure, which was derived from racing prototypes. Despite initially being designed with a V12 engine, the production model switched to a V6 turbo engine, which reduced weight and increased drivability.

Why did the Jaguar XJ220’s engine switch from a V12 to a V6 turbo?

The switch from a V12 to a V6 turbo in the XJ220 was a result of weight-saving measures. The V6 turbo, though not as exotic as the V12, offered better performance for the car’s intended use, with a lighter and more efficient power unit. The change was also a cost-saving measure, but it resulted in the car being more agile and usable on the road.

What impact did the Jaguar XJ220 have on the automotive industry in terms of performance?

The XJ220 had a significant impact on the automotive industry by setting new performance benchmarks. It was the first production car to exceed 200 mph, which was a massive achievement at the time. This performance milestone solidified the car as a forerunner in the hypercar class, paving the way for future competitors like the McLaren F1 and Bugatti Veyron.

How did the Jaguar XJ220 perform in motorsport, specifically in Le Mans?

The Jaguar XJ220 performed impressively in motorsport, particularly at Le Mans. While it was disqualified from the 1993 race due to a technicality with paperwork, it had been leading by two laps before the disqualification. The car’s design and performance were strongly influenced by TWR’s success in endurance racing.

What was the role of Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) in the creation of the Jaguar XJ220?

Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) played a pivotal role in the creation of the Jaguar XJ220. TWR was responsible for applying racing technology and expertise to the development of the car. They built the car’s lightweight chassis, engineering the car to be as performance-focused as possible, incorporating features like adjustable roll bars and a powerful turbocharged V6 engine.

How does the Jaguar XJ220 compare to other hypercars like the Ferrari F40 and McLaren F1?

The Jaguar XJ220 stands out in comparison to other hypercars like the Ferrari F40 and McLaren F1 due to its aerodynamic design and lighter weight. It had superior handling capabilities, particularly on race tracks, and its V6 turbo engine was more efficient and reliable compared to the larger V12 engines in some of its contemporaries. Despite these advantages, the XJ220’s smaller production numbers and PR issues at launch meant it never achieved the same iconic status as the others.

What challenges did Jaguar face with the PR and marketing of the XJ220?

Jaguar faced significant PR challenges with the XJ220, especially when it was revealed that the final production model differed substantially from the concept. The V12 engine, four-wheel drive, and rear-wheel steering, which had been featured in the concept car, were all dropped, causing disappointment among early buyers. Jaguar's decision to stick with these changes and not refund deposits led to a tarnished reputation and a decline in consumer confidence.

What are the key design features of the Jaguar XJ220?

Key design features of the Jaguar XJ220 include its lightweight honeycomb chassis, aerodynamic body, and integrated roll bars. The car’s design was heavily influenced by motorsport, with particular focus on handling and performance. The interior features a minimalist yet futuristic dashboard with a high-tech instrument cluster. The car’s proportions were designed to create a sleek, low-slung silhouette that emphasized speed and efficiency.

Why is the Jaguar XJ220 often considered the 'first' hypercar?

The Jaguar XJ220 is often considered the first hypercar due to its revolutionary blend of technology, speed, and luxury. It pushed the boundaries of performance by being the fastest production car at the time of its release, and its engineering was ahead of its time, incorporating motorsport technology in a road-going vehicle. Its 200 mph+ speed and use of lightweight materials set it apart from traditional sports cars of the era.