Rare Jaguar XJR-15 LM Shines at Tokyo Auto Salon 2020
Rare ONES - As 2020 had passed through, the automotive world seemed quieter than expected, with few significant new releases from major car manufacturers. But while there were no new superstars shining on the horizon, some classic models from the past continued to captivate automotive enthusiasts, proving that timeless designs never lose their charm.
1994 Jaguar XJR-15 LM, one of the most scarce Jaguar supercars made by Jaguar Sport shown off at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2020 in January 2020 ago. (Picture from: Jalopnik)
A perfect example of this came from a video shared on Supercar Blondie's YouTube channel. The video featured a rare gem from 1994— the Jaguar XJR-15 LM— which made an unexpected appearance at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2020 in January. This supercar, crafted by the British manufacturer Jaguar, has remained out of the spotlight for decades, making its sudden reappearance all the more thrilling for car lovers.
What made this moment even more surprising was the XJR-15 LM’s proximity to another iconic vehicle, the 1998 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK GTR. For many, it was the first time they had seen the XJR-15 LM in years, as it had spent much of its existence hidden from the public eye. The rarity of this car meant that very few were even aware of its continued existence.
1994 Jaguar XJR-15 LM, one of the most scarce Jaguar supercars made by Jaguar Sport and only 5 units were ever built. (Picture from: Cartune)
The story of the Jaguar XJR-15 LM cannot be told without acknowledging its predecessor, the Jaguar XJR-15. Between 1990 and 1992, Jaguar Sport—a collaboration between Jaguar and Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)—produced 53 units of the XJR-15, a road-legal supercar that quickly became a favorite among Jaguar’s wealthiest customers. The XJR-15 set the stage for the XJR-15 LM, which was introduced in 1994 as a racing-only variant designed to take performance to a whole new level.
1994 Jaguar XJR-15 LM uses a V12 engine with a capacity of 7.4 liters is capable of producing abundant power of up to 700 horsepower. (Picture from: MotorIllustrated)
With only five units ever built, the XJR-15 LM was a true rarity. Its powerful 7.4-liter V12 engine, derived from the XJR-9 racing car, produced an incredible 700 horsepower, offering unparalleled speed and performance. The car’s design was also significantly different from the original XJR-15, with several key modifications aimed at enhancing both its appearance and performance on the track. These changes included a larger rear wing, an additional front splitter with air vents, and an air intake on the roof to cool the larger engine. The result was a vehicle that not only looked more aggressive but was also built for raw speed.
1994 Jaguar XJR-15 LM made as many as three units in dark green, one in white and the rest is blue which is believed to be the prototype. (Picture from: TeamSpeed)
The scarcity of this supercar adds to its mystique. It’s said that all five units were originally sold to a single buyer in Japan, keeping the XJR-15 LM out of the global spotlight for years. However, in 2013, the blue prototype made its way into the hands of a car collector in the UK, marking the first time one of these rare models had left Japan. This event helped raise awareness of the XJR-15 LM’s existence among a wider audience.
In a world where the latest and greatest innovations often steal the spotlight, the return of the Jaguar XJR-15 LM at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2020 reminded everyone that some cars are more than just machines—they are legends. Decades may pass, but their legacy continues, inspiring admiration and awe whenever they resurface.
This car's brief return to the spotlight in 2020 was a celebration of automotive history, showing that even in a time when new models are constantly released, some creations from the past will always hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. These rare, powerful machines continue to remind us why certain supercars will never be forgotten, no matter how much time goes by. *** [EKA [05022020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARTUNE | MOTORILLUSTRATED | TEAMSPEED | WIKIPEDIA | JALOPNIK | GT PLANET | GIZMODO.AU]
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