The Jaguar XJ220 was arguably one of the poster cars of the 1990s. The low-slung supercar was birthed in controversy, but that has done little to diminish its value and aura of mystique over the years. That’s why this ultra-low mileage example offered for sale by RM Sotheby’s is the ultimate collector’s dream.
A prototype of the British supercar was first unveiled at the 1988 British International Auto Show. There, the prototype boasted an impressive specification that included a hulking 6.2-litre 12-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive. It was the sort of package more associated with the thoroughbred Italian supercars. The Jaguar XJ220 understandably generated a buzz of excitement, and within the first hour, over 1,500 had placed an initial deposit of £50,000 ($60,600) to secure their build slot.
Unfortunately, the Jaguar XJ220’s journey from prototype to final production was plagued by several issues. By the time the final production was ready, the V12 engine had been replaced by a 6-cylinder unit, and the all-wheel-drive system had given way for a rear-wheel-drive setup. The car also lacked the promised power steering, anti-lock brakes and scissor doors. The global economic recession didn’t help matters. Several prospective owners demanded a refund of their deposits, and there were rumours of a few court cases.
It was an unfortunate situation, but that did not mean the Jaguar XJ220 was not a great car. Its 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine produced 542 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The Jaguar XJ220 could hit 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, quicker than rivals like the Ferrari F40, Porsche 959 and Lamborghini Diablo. Even more impressive is the fact that its 213mph top speed was enough to make it the fastest production car until the arrival of the McLaren F1.
Jaguar built less than 300 units of the Jaguar XJ220 between 1992 and 1994. This one for sale bears chassis number 220737. It rolled off the assembly line in May 1993 and is finished in Spa Silver subtly matched by a Smoke Grey leather interior.
In 2017, the supercar received extensive recommissioning work totalling $63,312 (£38,205.50) by model specialist Don Law. Among other things, the steering rack was stripped, and the seized joints were repaired. The interior was thoroughly cleaned, while the exterior received a machine polish treatment. The Jaguar XJ220 was also fitted with a brand-new set of Bridgestone tires.
The 46 miles (74 km) on the odometer will surely be a big selling point for the silver XJ220, but here’s hoping the car gets a bit more road time with the new owner. Cars like the Jaguar XJ220 deserve to be driven hard and not squirrelled away in some private garage.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
