And guess what it’s called? Yup, the ‘1957 Edition’. But given that Fiat has pretty well defined the retro market with its much-loved modern 500, we think they should be allowed to celebrate every single year, if that’s what they feel like.
We’ve written about Eagle E-Types before. We’ve discussed how there will always be some people who flinch at the idea of ‘improving’, rather than simply restoring, a classic – especially a classic with the magical aura of an E-type Jag. But some enthusiasts feel differently: who recognise the delights of a car which retains the looks and essential character of a much-loved classic, but has the reliability and driveability of a more modern motor.
Jaguar hasn’t forgotten about its long-serving saloon while stoking the F-type’s publicity fire
Although the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show XK120 prototype was merely intended as a pretty showcase for the revolutionary straight-six engine (which Jaguar would use well into the 80s), its simple, svelte curves bought it a production run. Later developments of the design unnecessarily cluttered the overall appearance; a select few might be struck by déjà vu when first setting eyes on the XFR-S.
Video: Scott Toepfer via Vimeo.
There's 630HP and 738lb ft of torque available from those 12 cylinders, thanks to a little help from twin turbochargers, while the German marque proudly proclaims that the saloon comes as standard with “the world’s first suspension with eyes”.
With varying degrees of success, Formula 1 has regularly updated its rules to encourage the close competition which has made the sport so thrilling over the decades. On a season-to-season basis, the changes are often imperceptible in visual terms – but looking over a broader chronological spectrum demonstrates just how far the sport has come. Take, for example, the Ferrari Lancia D50 that somehow managed to do without any aerodynamic addenda; unthinkable at even the lowest levels of racing in modern times.
With the DS, Citroën created a goddess on wheels (the common nickname derives from the fact that 'DS' in French is pronounced the same as 'Déesse', which means goddess). Not only was she heavenly in aesthetic terms, the DS was also a technological godsend. Then, some years after the French beauty’s introduction, Porsche released the venerable 911. Though essentially polar opposites, each car was considered a highlight of automotive design, and perhaps this was the inspiration for a project undertaken by the team of ‘visual communication experts’ at Brandpowder.
Of course, it’s BMW that’s famous for its art cars – but it’s a wonder that the idea wasn’t pioneered by a French manufacturer, given the country’s fondness for flair and fancies.
