12 Cylinders, Five Speeds: Rare TWR-Tribute Jaguar XJ-S Heritage Racer
Performance
Motorsports
Classics
European
The Jaguar XJ-S was once a familiar sight on our roads, as it was offered in various forms for over 20 years. But the TWR model, named for the celebrated Tom Walkinshaw Racing team - opens in new window or tab., is subtly tweaked to make it distinctive. The ‘88 sedan is perhaps the ultimate driver’s Jag of the 1980s.
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The Jag pairs the iconic 5.3-liter V-12 engine with a manual transmission The example recently listed for sale on eBay is a tribute car, faithfully recreating a car that was nearly impossible to find when new. eBay Motors in Canada has it listed for just under $19,000 USD.
Jaguar XJ-S: A Legacy Of Racing Success
Tom Walkinshaw, a Scots racing driver, founded TWR and competed using various brands. TWR raced the XJ-S with success in both European and Australian Touring Car series. To commemorate championships, the outfit worked with JaguarSport to build this limited-edition car.
Through the 1980s, Jaguar didn’t offer a manual transmission on V-12-powered versions of the XJ-S, except in these rare models. It’s no wonder that Jag fanatics salivate over these cars. The TWR XJ-S has special Speedline alloy wheels - opens in new window or tab., a unique steering wheel, a different grille, and performance tweaks to make this an extraordinary performance GT.
A Near-Perfect Recreation Of An Icon
The builder, a longtime Jaguar club concours judge, went to great lengths to make this feel much like one of the original TWR cars. The details are impeccable. An owner’s manual cover has the appropriate tire pressure ratings for the staggered-size 16-inch alloy wheels. Dual rear Koni shocks - opens in new window or tab. were fitted to help control the 300-plus horsepower produced by the big 5.3-liter Jaguar V-12 engine - opens in new window or tab..
The seller notes a few minor flaws. The rubber sections of the bumpers discolored over the years and could use refinishing. The dashboard, like so many others, succumbed to the sun and has a few cracks. These minor issues don’t affect how this beauty drives.
Forget The Badges and Drive
Records from Jaguar can be sketchy in that era. So we advise removing the reproduction TWR badges and data plates. While the eBay seller is open about the car’s tribute status, it’s best to make that fact absolutely clear so nobody confuses this model with a genuine TWR —now or in the future.
The experience of driving this car demands honesty about the legacy of TWR and Jaguar motorsports. Any legit enthusiast would want to honor the privilege of owning an automobile that looks and drives this cool.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.