1985 Argo JM19
1985 Argo JM19
Brand
Argo Racing Cars
Year
1985
Country
Great Britain
Generation
JM19
1985 Argo JM19
Brand
Argo Racing Cars
Year
1985
Country
Great Britain
Generation
JM19
About this car
Discover the history
The 1985 Argo JM19 is a notable sports prototype race car that emerged during a highly competitive era of endurance racing. Built by Argo Racing Cars, a British manufacturer renowned for its innovative designs, the JM19 was developed to compete in the IMSA Camel GT series and Group C racing, two of the most prestigious sports car racing categories of the time.
The JM19 was designed by Jo Marquart, a respected engineer and co-founder of Argo Racing Cars. Marquart’s expertise in aerodynamics and chassis design was evident in the JM19’s construction. The car featured a lightweight and rigid aluminum honeycomb monocoque chassis, which provided an excellent balance between strength and weight. This structural integrity was crucial for the demands of endurance racing, where durability and performance were paramount.
Powering the Argo JM19 was typically a Cosworth DFL V8 engine, though other engines such as the Chevrolet V8 were also used depending on the team’s preference and the specific racing series. The Cosworth DFL was a 3.9-liter naturally aspirated engine capable of producing around 530 horsepower. This engine, derived from the famed Cosworth DFV Formula One powerplant, was known for its reliability and high-revving nature. Coupled with a Hewland five-speed manual transmission, the JM19 offered drivers precise control over its potent power output.
Aerodynamically, the JM19 was designed to maximize downforce while minimizing drag. The car’s sleek, low-slung body featured prominent aerodynamic elements such as a large rear wing and carefully sculpted side pods, which helped improve stability and handling at high speeds. The use of lightweight composite materials in the body construction further enhanced the car’s performance by reducing overall weight.
The suspension system of the JM19 included double wishbones with coil springs and dampers at both the front and rear, providing excellent handling characteristics and allowing the car to maintain high cornering speeds. Ventilated disc brakes at all four corners ensured reliable stopping power, which was crucial for the varied conditions of endurance racing.
The Argo JM19 made its competitive debut in the mid-1980s and quickly proved to be a formidable contender in both IMSA and Group C events. Its combination of advanced engineering, powerful engine, and aerodynamic efficiency allowed it to compete effectively against well-established manufacturers such as Porsche and Jaguar. The car achieved several notable results, including podium finishes and class victories, highlighting its competitiveness and the engineering prowess behind it.
The Argo JM19 competed in numerous prestigious events in both Europe and North America. In Group C, it raced in the World Sportscar Championship, while in IMSA GTP, it participated in events like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. The car’s adaptability and competitive performance made it a favorite among privateer teams, and it achieved several podium finishes and class victories during its career.
Today, the Argo JM19 is remembered as a versatile and competitive prototype that exemplified the spirit of endurance racing in the 1980s and early 1990s. Its ability to adapt to different engines and regulations, combined with its aerodynamic efficiency and robust chassis, made it a successful and respected race car. The JM19 remains a significant part of sports car racing history and is celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its contribution to the golden era of Group C and IMSA GTP racing.
