The custom-built car begins a series of celebrations for the model’s 50th anniversary, and represents a collaboration between McBrain and engineers at Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works in Coventry.
Together, the car represents more than 3,500 man hours of work, while over 4,000 parts have been replaced or refinished. A variety of upgrades have also been included to bring the XJ firmly up-to-date.
McBrain said: ‘This is my ultimate XJ – my third, and lovingly named ‘Johnny 3’. It has been a true labour of love between Jaguar Classic and myself.
‘I’m so excited by its completion and especially to be showing it at Geneva – it really is a Greatest Hits edition and to me it defines what the Jaguar XJ is all about. It’s a credit to the craftsmanship of the Jaguar Classic team. We couldn’t have timed it better, this being the 50th anniversary of XJ – my favourite of all Jaguars.’
The exterior of the car features unique front and rear bumpers, while the wheel arches have been flared and re-profiled in order to fit 18-inch wire wheels. The rear suspension has also been revised, and adjustable dampers have been included too.
A 4.2-litre in-line six-cylinder engine sits under the bonnet, while machined quad exhaust pipes sit at the rear of the car. The powerplant even features three two-inch SU carburettors from an E-Type.
Inside, the car benefits from modern door sealing for better noise insulation, while the seats are hand-trimmed in ‘Pimento Red’ leather. The car’s pedals are inspired by those found on a drum kit.
Many components have been carried over from McBrain’s first-ever XJ, including the iconic leaping Jaguar bonnet mascot and the original ignition keys.
