Heritage Unleashed - When it comes to automotive legends, few names evoke the same sense of awe and respect as Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR). Known for its incredible achievements on the racetrack and engineering prowess, TWR has returned to the spotlight with an announcement that has sent waves through the motoring world. Introducing the TWR Supercat: a modern masterpiece born of heritage, innovation, and unrelenting performance. Inspired by TWR's glorious motorsport history and crafted with unparalleled attention to detail, the Supercat promises to be a game-changer in the super-GT segment.
The TWR Supercat, inspired by TWR's legendary motorsport history, combines heritage, innovation, and precision engineering to redefine the super-GT class. (Picture from: TopGear) |
The story of the TWR Supercat begins with its illustrious roots. TWR has a rich legacy that includes dominating motorsport events across the globe, notably securing victory at the 1988 Le Mans with the Jaguar XJR-9. This triumph remains one of the most iconic moments in racing history. Today, under the leadership of Fergus Walkinshaw, son of the legendary Tom Walkinshaw, the Supercat seeks to honor this legacy. Limited to just 88 examples worldwide—a nod to the 1988 victory—this super-GT has been meticulously crafted to blend the past with cutting-edge modernity.
The Supercat takes its foundation from the Jaguar XJS, a classic model that exudes elegance and power. However, this is far more than a reimagining; it is a reinvention. The car’s exterior design has been shaped by Khyzyl Saleem, a visionary in automotive styling, with input from Magnus Walker, a celebrated figure in car culture. The result is a striking silhouette that retains the Jaguar XJS's iconic elements, such as the flying buttresses and timeless front-end design, while introducing a bolder, more aggressive stance. Every curve, line, and detail has been aerodynamically optimized, ensuring the car is as functional as it is visually captivating.
The TWR Supercat, built on the elegant and powerful Jaguar XJS, is a complete reinvention with visionary styling by Khyzyl Saleem. (Picture from: TopGear) |
Beneath its muscular carbon-fiber body lies the heart of a true beast: a supercharged V12 engine developed in-house by TWR engineers. With an output of 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, the Supercat is built to thrill. The rear-wheel-drive setup, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, offers an engaging, analog driving experience that enthusiasts will cherish. This isn't just a car; it’s a tribute to the raw and authentic joys of driving. The structural upgrades, including an integrated tubular steel framework and carbon-fiber panels, have reduced weight while enhancing rigidity, ensuring exceptional performance on both road and track.
The TWR Supercat showcases engineering brilliance with a double wishbone suspension and active dynamic damping, delivering exceptional stability and comfort. (Picture from: TopGear) |
The engineering brilliance extends to the car's suspension and handling. A double wishbone setup, augmented by active dynamic damping, provides unparalleled stability and comfort. Whether carving through mountain roads or cruising on long journeys, the Supercat adapts effortlessly. Five distinct driving modes allow drivers to tailor the car’s behavior to suit their mood or environment, from relaxed touring to full-throttle track attacks. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes add another layer of precision and control, ensuring the Supercat stops as confidently as it accelerates.
Inside, the Supercat offers a harmonious blend of luxury and practicality. The interior has been entirely reimagined, combining modern technology with design cues from the original Jaguar XJS. Leather-clad carbon-fiber seats, available in contemporary or heritage styles, provide comfort and support. The expanded luggage area replaces the rear seats, making it ideal for long-distance touring. A digital multimedia interface, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensures connectivity and convenience. Adjustable suspension and steering settings are just a touch away, thanks to an intuitive toggle interface, emphasizing the car’s user-focused approach.
The TWR Supercat houses a supercharged V12 engine, developed in-house by TWR engineers, delivering 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque beneath its carbon-fiber body. (Picture from: TopGear) |
What sets the Supercat apart isn’t just its striking design or formidable performance—it’s the attention to detail. Every aspect of the car has been engineered to perfection, from the reimagined flying buttresses to the repositioned exhaust system. Even the wheels, forged in a bespoke Monoblok design, contribute to its widened, athletic stance. The aerodynamic refinements, developed with input from a former F1 aerodynamicist, enhance downforce and stability, making the Supercat as capable on the Nürburgring as it is on scenic highways.
The TWR Supercat is engineered to perfection, with reimagined flying buttresses, a repositioned exhaust system, and bespoke Monoblok wheels enhancing its athletic stance. (Picture from: TopGear) |
TWR’s philosophy of blending heritage with innovation shines through in every element of the Supercat. As the company’s first production car, it sets a high standard for what’s to come. Built by hand at TWR’s dedicated facility in Berkshire, each Supercat is a unique creation tailored to its owner’s preferences. From left- to right-hand drive configurations and an array of customization options, every detail is a reflection of TWR’s commitment to excellence.
The Supercat isn’t just a car; it’s a celebration of automotive passion, a bridge between past and future, and a testament to the enduring legacy of TWR. With its exclusivity, extraordinary engineering, and stunning design, this super-GT is poised to become an icon in its own right. As enthusiasts eagerly await the first deliveries in 2025, the TWR Supercat stands as a reminder of what happens when history, artistry, and innovation collide. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TWRPERFORMANCE | CARANDDRIVER | TOPGEAR | PISTONHEADS | MOTOR1 | MOTORAUTHORITY ]
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