The Cat Roars Back!

From Moss Motoring 1983

Thanks in large part to the developmental work and skilled driving of Bob Tullius and his Group 44 team, the name Jaguar is again appearing in the Winners Circle! With strong factory support, the new “XJR5” Prototype racer is making a very impressive showing in GTP racing around the country.

Powered by a 550 horsepower. 326 c.i. engine developed from the all-alloy unit in the production XJS-HE coupe, the XJR5 has a sleek ground-effects body molded of Kevlar around a semi-monocoque frame of aluminum honeycomb and steel. In its appearances to date this year it has logged four outright victories (Road Atlanta, Lime Rock, Mosport and Pocono), a Second and Third at Laguna Seca and Charlottesville. In other races, minor problems (to be expected from such a new car) have sidelined the car, usually from a front running position.

This year’s season is drawing to a close but 1984 should see the Jaguar XJR5 dominant in its class. Rumor has it that a Le Mans entry is being considered. Remember how the many racing successes of Jaguar XK120’s and D-types in the fifties resulted in some fabulous road cars going into production? Since the factory is backing the XJR5 effort, dare we dream of another Jaguar sports car being introduced in a couple of years? There are many fans who will share our hopes that this could happen! If you see a Camel GTP race scheduled in your part of the world, make the effort to go and see the XJR5 (and close your eyes and make a wish…!).