1988 Jaguar XJR-9
1988 Jaguar XJR-9
Brand
Jaguar
Year
1988
Country
Great Britain
Generation
XJR
1988 Jaguar XJR-9
Brand
Jaguar
Year
1988
Country
Great Britain
Generation
XJR
About this car
Discover the history
The 1988 Jaguar XJR-9 was a dominant race car designed by Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) to compete in both the World Sports Prototype Championship (WSPC) and the IMSA GT Championship. Building on the success of its predecessors, the XJR-9 featured advanced aerodynamic refinements and powerful engineering that made it a serious contender in endurance racing.
At the heart of the XJR-9 was a 7.0-liter V12 engine (downsized to 6.0 liters for IMSA races), which delivered around 750 horsepower. This massive power was channeled through a lightweight carbon fiber and Kevlar monocoque chassis, which enhanced both rigidity and safety. The car’s body was crafted from carbon composite, ensuring optimal weight distribution and aerodynamics. It also featured advanced suspension systems with double wishbones and coil springs, helping it manage corners with precision at high speeds.
The XJR-9 made its mark in 1988 with a legendary victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where drivers Jan Lammers, Johnny Dumfries, and Andy Wallace guided the car to the finish line. This win was monumental for Jaguar, marking its first Le Mans victory since 1957. In addition to its triumph at Le Mans, the XJR-9 also secured victories in several other races in both the WSPC and IMSA, showcasing its versatility on various circuits.
The car’s racing success was due not only to its power and aerodynamics but also to its resilience in endurance events. The combination of a powerful engine, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and TWR’s meticulous engineering allowed it to excel in grueling long-distance races, cementing its place in motorsport history.
Beyond its immediate success, the XJR-9 became the foundation for further developments. The chassis was used to create the Jaguar R9R prototype, which eventually evolved into the Jaguar XJR-15 by 1990. Even after its competitive days were over, the XJR-9 continued to leave a legacy in vintage and historic racing, with a notable win in the 2010 Le Mans Legend race. Its performance and historical significance make the Jaguar XJR-9 one of the most iconic race cars of its era.
