Jaguar has developed two F-TYPE Convertible rally cars. The company used design cues from the F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition. This way it continues the celebration of 70 years of sports car heritage since the launch of XK 120 in 1948.
The one-off F-TYPE rally cars also pay homage to the legendary Jaguar XK 120 registered ‘NUB 120’. In the early 1950s in the hands of Ian Appleyard it completed three consecutive Alpine Rallies. And that happened without incurring a single penalty point. XK 120 won the RAC as well as Tulip.
Both rally-specification F-TYPE Convertibles have Jaguar’s 300PS 2.0-litre Ingenium four-cylinder petrol engine
Jaguar Design and Engineering made some modifications so that both cars are FIA specification. The modifications were on the brakes and suspension alongside a protective rollcage, race-seats with a six-point harness, a light pod on the bonnet and fire extinguisher.
Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design, said: “The opportunity to design a rally car doesn’t come along very often so I was fascinated to see how we could take our modern day sports car to a similar character. These models are a fitting tribute to the XK 120 and all the great Jaguar sports cars since its reveal 70 years ago, including the latest F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition.”
The rally F-TYPEs feature upgrades to the brakes, suspension and drivetrain. It has the addition of grooved discs with four-piston calipers front and rear. Competition dampers and softer springs ensure the high-performance cars can go flat-out over rough rally stages. Three-way adjustable dampers allow set-up for different surfaces. They also feature spherical bearings for extra precision. The wheels are motorsport-spec while the tyres are specifically for use on gravel. A limited-slip differential improves power delivery on loose surfaces while a hydraulic handbrake helps drivers tackle hairpin bends.
The celebratory models went through their paces at Walters Arena rally stage, South Wales
They demonstrated their performance credentials and will now attend a series of Jaguar events over the next few months.
The rally cars’ livery takes design inspiration from the new F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition. It features a range of subtle exterior visual enhancements. These include unique 20-inch Gloss Black wheels with a Diamond Turned finish as well as a Black Contrast roof on the Coupé. Inside, the luxurious Ebony Windsor Leather interior features Performance seats.
Following a great legacy of Jaguars, the one-off #FTYPE Rally Car celebrates 70 years of our sports cars since the #XK120 reveal in 1948, and the new F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition. pic.twitter.com/58iAamj6ik
— Jaguar (@Jaguar) November 12, 2018
