F-TYPE Project 7: the best Jaguar in years

It’s been 60 years since Jaguar introduced the D-type racer. Now, at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the automaker is paying homage, unveiling a D-type inspired street legal supercar: the F-TYPE Project 7.

The Project 7 is a tip of the cap to both the D-type and Jaguar’s seven wins at Le Mans, both of which are reflected in the car: the D-type is easily seen is the Project 7’s fluid and sexy styling, and the Le Mans success is quickly noticed by the sound, feel, and performance of the Project 7.

The Project 7 is powered by Jag’s 5.0-liter supercharged V-8, which cranks up the power for the new model, as it makes 575 hp, notably more than the F-TYPE R. Guided by a successful 8-speed Quickshift transmission, and a new-and-improved Electronic Active Differential, power is sent to the rear wheels and propels the car 0-60 in just 3.8 seconds, confirming the fact that the F-TYPE Project 7 is indeed a supercar.

Aiding the Project 7 in its sub-4.0 0-60 time is the weight: the car is all-aluminum, and checks in just under 3,500 lbs, more than 175 lbs less than the F-TYPE R. Of course, that weight difference also plays out in handling, where the Project 7 shines. Jaguar’s Adaptive Dynamics system helps control body movement and stability, as it can adjust damper rates up to 500 times every second. The spring rates and damper intervals have been adjusted specifically to the Project 7, to tailor the car to the driving enthusiasts who are sure to purchase it.

The fantastic all-around performance is finished off by the brakes: six-piston monobloc 15.7 inch front calipers, and four-piston monobloc 15.0 inch rear calipers, hidden behind suave black 20-inch alloy wheels.

In terms of design, the Project 7 is clearly related to its fellow F-TYPEs, but it’s also clearly a step above. The design is minimalistic in the best way possible; a way that reminds us of the truly talented design team that Jaguar employs. The roof is removable, and it’s debatable as to whether the Project 7 looks better with the rooflines, or going topless. Either way, it’s a car that will draw stares from strangers, and grins from car enthusiasts who fondly remember the D-type.

Only 250 will be sold, starting early next year, so don’t count on getting your hands on one of them. Hopefully, though, you can get your eyes on one.


Photo Credit: Jaguar

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