Reviving a Legend: TWR Performance Unveils Supercharged Jaguar XJS Restomod
In the realm of U.K. motorsports, two names stand out: Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) and Jaguar. While the competitive aspect of Walkinshaw’s legacy may be a thing of the past, its association with tuning and enhancing sports cars remains etched in automotive history. Now, the tuning side of Walkinshaw is back under the banner of TWR Performance, drawing inspiration from its rich heritage dating back to 1984. The latest creation to emerge from this revival is the Supercat, a meticulously restomodded Jaguar XJS boasting a formidable V-12 powerplant under the hood.
This isn’t the first time TWR has left its mark on the XJS. In 1984, operating under the name TWR Sport, the team introduced a heavily modified version of the XJS called the “XJR-S.” This bespoke creation featured significant enhancements in aerodynamics, suspension, brakes, and engine performance, drawing upon TWR’s extensive experience in European Touring Cars. Just four years later, TWR Sport evolved into the joint venture JaguarSport, responsible for developing the iconic XJ220 prototype and subsequent road-going iteration. Among the many highlights of TWR and TWR Sport’s portfolio are the creation of Holden Special Vehicles, the Renault Clio V6, Saab 9-3 Viggen, and the Aston Martin DB7. Despite the passing of its namesake, Tom Walkinshaw, in 2010, the legacy lives on through his son, Fergus, who now leads TWR Performance. A racing driver himself, Fergus is following in his father’s footsteps, carrying forward the tradition of automotive excellence with this latest endeavor.
The Supercharged Supercat
Fueled by a desire to uphold his father’s legacy, Fergus Walkinshaw set out to create a vehicle that embodies the essence of TWR—a car that epitomizes the spirit of a “Super-GT” coupe. Thus, the idea of the Supercat was born, a modern reincarnation of TWR’s legendary XJS restomod. At the heart of the Supercat lies a potent V-12 engine, but rather than settle for the stock 328 horsepower, this contemporary interpretation of a TWR-tuned XJS harnesses the power of a supercharger to unleash a staggering 600 horsepower. Pairing this formidable engine with a six-speed manual transmission adds to the driving experience, creating a symphony of power and precision on the road.
Drawing inspiration from the original XJR-S’ aerodynamic enhancements, TWR Performance enlisted the talents of renowned designer Khyzyl Saleem to sculpt the Supercat’s exterior. With a background in digital and 3D concepting, Saleem has collaborated with industry icons such as Ken Block and Travis Pastrana, bringing a wealth of experience to the project. The challenge was to enhance the XJS’ distinctive profile while improving its aerodynamics as a Super-GT coupe, all while preserving its timeless appeal. Utilizing carbon fiber panels, Saleem crafted a design that pays homage to TWR’s racing heritage while projecting a modern and dynamic aesthetic.
“This project is an incredible opportunity to interpret TWR’s winning legacy in today’s design language,” said Saleem in TWR’s release. “In merging the requirements of Super-GT form and racing functionality, we have created a unique identity that is instantly recognizable from its silhouette. I am proud of the work we have done to bring inspirations from TWR’s performance and racing car history into this extraordinary new design.”
Joining Saleem in the creative process was classic Porsche modifier and enthusiast Magnus Walker. While Walker is best known for his affinity for Porsche, his passion for all things automotive transcends brand boundaries. Reflecting on his involvement in the Supercat project, Walker expressed admiration for the iconic Jaguar XJS as a quintessential British GT car. “TWR’s uncompromising approach to delivering pure performance and driver involvement takes this to another level,” said Walker. “I couldn’t be more proud to have contributed to this landmark statement of TWR’s bold future.”
Price and Availability
The TWR Performance Supercat is poised to make its full debut this summer, marking the culmination of years of dedication and craftsmanship. For enthusiasts eager to secure their place in automotive history, order books are now open, with a deposit of $12,513.15 required to reserve a slot. The total price for this exclusive masterpiece is set at $281,757.15, reflecting the unparalleled quality and engineering excellence embodied by the Supercat. Moreover, TWR Performance is extending its reach beyond the U.K., offering sales to major international markets, including the United States. Production will be limited to just 88 examples, paying homage to the iconic 1988 Le Mans victory of the TWR Jaguar XJR-9, ensuring that each Supercat remains a rare and coveted symbol of automotive innovation and heritage.