Thornley Kelham, a specialist in restoration, maintenance, servicing, and support of iconic vintage and classic cars, has revealed the Jaguar XK European. The first new project in the bespoke ‘European’ program uses a derelict donor Jaguar XK which is given an all-alloy lightweight body penned by McLaren P1 designer, Paul Howse, and a full range of performance and comfort upgrades.
The roofline is lowered so that the proportions of the car become more elegant and all the body sections have received more sculpture. The arches are wider both at the front and more significantly at the rear with wider alloy wire wheels filling them out nicely, giving that ‘road racer ‘stance. Instead of the brightwork, there is a subtle crease down the hood which follows the split screen into the roof and washes out over the roof. At the rear, the tail sweeps up to create a more teardrop form. The rear lamps are positioned into the bodywork and the headlights have had the chrome bezels removed.
The interior features a redesigned dashboard with the dials kept in a similar layout but surrounded by a body color aluminium dashboard rather than a flat slab of walnut. Characterized by classic design, the seats offer more support than the original. The doors are also more sophisticated in design, and features a slim storage pocket and a completely new door release. Electric windows, electronic gauges and a discreet rollcage, air-conditioning, power steering, Bluetooth connectivity and a number of in-car entertainment options are added.
The redeengeneered Jaguar XK 3.8-litre straight-six engine is equipped with direct injection, a bespoke camshaft and rebored cylinders for either 300hp or 340hp depending on specification. The car is equipped with an upgraded aluminium radiator with oil cooler, as well as louvred hood and subtly redesigned vents and apertures. Power is delivered through a redesigned five-speed manual transmission.
The handling has been enhanced with reconfigured suspension all-round, employing double wishbones at the front, coilovers, tuned Bilstein shock absorbers and Eibach springs.
Development of the first Jaguar XK built to ‘European’ specification is already underway, and the first commission is secured. Numbers will be strictly limited, with prices from £550,000 plus donor car depending on specification.
Article Source: Lux Expose
