TWR Supercat: Jaguar XJS Restomod

PETER

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Post on Nov 21, 2024

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TWR Supercat: A Jaguar XJS Restomod That Still Makes Me Sweat

Hey everyone, let's talk about the TWR Supercat – a Jaguar XJS Restomod that’s seriously awesome, but also… kinda terrifying. I mean, terrifying in a "holy crap, I almost totaled this beauty" kind of way.

I’ll tell you, restoring classic cars is a labor of love, but sometimes, it feels like a labor of masochism. Especially when you're dealing with a project like the TWR Supercat. This isn’t your grandma’s XJS, folks. This is a seriously powerful machine, and it demands respect.

<h3>The Allure of the Supercat: Why I Fell In Love (and Then Almost Crashed)</h3>

The XJS, in its stock form, is a gorgeous car. Elegant lines, classic Jaguar styling... but it’s also, let's be honest, a bit underpowered. That’s where Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) comes in. They took the XJS and absolutely transformed it. We're talking a completely reworked suspension, a beefed-up engine, and a whole host of upgrades that turn this grand tourer into a serious muscle car.

I first saw one at a car show – a deep, rich British Racing Green, gleaming under the spotlights. It was love at first sight. The aggressive stance, the subtle yet powerful body kit… it was breathtaking. I had to have one. Or, at least, a restored version of one.

Finding a good base XJS was a nightmare. Rust, electrical gremlins, and questionable previous ownerships were the norm. It took months to locate a reasonably solid chassis. Then came the restoration itself.

<h3>My First Restoration Nightmare (and Lessons Learned)</h3>

Okay, so let's talk about that near-miss. I'd finally finished restoring my Supercat – new engine, upgraded brakes, the whole shebang. It was glorious. I was so excited, I took it out for a celebratory spin. I was probably going a little too fast (okay, maybe a lot too fast). I hit a curve a little too aggressively… and let's just say I got intimately acquainted with the shoulder of the road. Thankfully, no major damage, but it was a brutal reminder: respect the power.

Here’s what I learned the hard way:

• Proper break-in is crucial: A new engine needs time to seat properly. Don’t push it too hard, too soon. This is critical to engine longevity.
• Upgraded brakes are essential: With increased horsepower, you need upgraded brakes to safely manage the car’s stopping power. This is basic safety.
• Suspension tuning matters: A poorly tuned suspension can compromise handling and safety. Invest in a proper alignment and setup.
• Don't skip maintenance: Regular maintenance will keep your Supercat (or any car!) running smoothly. This is fundamental to proper ownership.

<h3>Beyond the Engine: The Importance of Detailing in a TWR Supercat Restoration</h3>

The mechanical stuff is obviously huge with a car like this, but the detailing can make or break the overall look. Think about the interior – leather, wood, all the details that scream “luxury sports car.”

I spent ages sourcing the correct materials to replace those worn-out components. I meticulously cleaned and restored the original parts that I could reuse. This made a huge difference to the car's value. And let me tell you, the right interior can make all the difference. It’s what elevates it from just a fast car to a truly magnificent piece of automotive art.

This might not seem related to performance, but believe me, the meticulous work adds to the driving experience. This classic car restoration was a long game and it's a part of the pride of ownership.

<h3>Finding Your Own TWR Supercat: A Few Tips</h3>

Finding a Supercat, even as a restoration project, can be tough. Be patient and thorough. Check every inch of the car before committing. Do your research. Online forums are your friend. Talk to other enthusiasts.

Remember this isn't just any XJS. This is a serious piece of automotive history, with a price tag to match. It's more than just a car – it’s an investment and a dream come true for many car enthusiasts. So go ahead and enjoy the ride – just maybe, don't push your luck like I did.