KWE Cars Blog - Page 2

Jaguar has announced that it will restart production of the D-type racing car for the first time in over 60 years.

The luxury motor company will hand-build just 25 new models of the classic D-type, one of which was debuted at the Salon Rétromobile show in Paris last week.

It has been 62 years since the last D-type was built. At the time, Jaguar had planned to manufacture 100 models, but only managed to build 75.

By restarting production of the iconic sports car with 25 all-new, period-correct models, the company is finally fulfilling its original aim.

“The Jaguar D-type is one of the most iconic and beautiful competition cars of all time, with an outstanding record in the world’s toughest motor races. And it’s just as spectacular today,”

Tim Hannig, director of Jaguar Land Rover’s Classic division.

“The opportunity to continue the D-type’s success story, by completing its planned production run in Coventry, is one of those once-in-a-lifetime projects that our world-class experts at Jaguar Land Rover Classic are proud to fulfil,” he added.

The new D-type models will be engineered at Jaguar Land Rover’s purpose-built Classic Works facility in Coventry, England.

Powered by a six-cylinder XK engine, the sports car famously won the Le Mans 24 Hours race three times between 1955 and 1957, and each of the 2018 models will be created to match these authentic, original specifications.

As it stands, the engineering prototype is the 1956 Longnose specification, featuring the recognisable extended bonnet, characteristic tail fin behind the driver’s head, wide-angle cylinder head and quick-change brake callipers.

D-type clients will also be able to choose between a 1955-specification Shortnose or 1956-specification Longnose bodywork.

Jaguar did the same thing back in 2014 with its iconic E-type car. Having had the original objective of building 18 Special GT E-type Cars in 1963, the company only made 12.

It, therefore, restarted production 50 years later, creating the remaining six “missing” vehicles as exact reproductions of the original 12 cars produced in 1963. They also went on to build nine XKSSs in 2017-18 that were originally destroyed along with most of the necessary tooling in a fire at Browns Lane factory.

Kev Riches, Jaguar Classic Engineering Manager, said,

“Recreating the nine D-type-derived XKSSs was hugely satisfying, and an even bigger technical challenge than the six missing Lightweight E-types, but lessons learned from the XKSS project have given us a head start on the final 25 D-types.

“Each one will be absolutely correct, down to the very last detail, just as Jaguar’s Competitions Department intended.”

Jaguar then electrified the E-type model three years later, in September 2017, in a bid to “future-proof classic-car ownership”.

My other half is Sarah, and the Big Blue Cat in the heading relates to our 1990 XJ-S 5.3 litre convertible, in Solent Blue with Saville Grey interior. It’s actually Sarah’s baby, bought for her after many, many patient years of waiting.

Jags are in her family, with her brother owning an E-type and various uncles having Mark Xs and Mark 2s throughout life, but the XJ-S was always her personal desire. She’s had to put up for many years with my love for Land Rovers of all shapes and sizes, from Series 1, 2 and 3 through to Discovery 2s and 4s, Range Rovers Series 1s and P38s plus off-roaders and finally our White Witch, a white Discovery Sport 2.2 litre with the registration W1 CHH. Sarah has dabbled with imports, via a Chevy Astro 4.0 day van, a lifted and overboard 3.2 XXS Toyota surf, a Mitsubishi Delica 3.0 litre petrol and her latest, which we still have, a 260bhp Nissan Elgrand. All these came after turning down the chance to buy her first XJ-S convertible in wine metallic for £4000 many years ago. In those days though there was no place for the two kids and the two dogs.

“We have an XJ-S Plus, all the car anyone could want from a Jaguar and then some.”

So after many years of waiting, we bought the cat in late February this year, in nice condition as it was, but then decided to hand it over it to Chris Knowles at KWE so he could, as he put it, “Make it the car what it SHOULD have been in the first place”.

KWE Suspension Upgrades

For the first of their upgrades we plumped for their S1 suspension upgrade, which includes a suspension, steering and brake upgrade, note they say upgrade, not replacement as this makes the car better than when it was new in their opinion.

This included the complete stripping of the suspension, brakes and steering unit from the car, then each individual section stripped down, all those old BL bushes, shocks, joints, dampers, discs, springs and joints as well, basically thrown away. Each major section is then shot blasted and powder coated in zinc and then finished in black or another colour should you ask for it, and all wearing, perishable and moving parts renewed with OE or if they are not available, KWE manufactured parts. It’s then all put back together by a single person, only one mechanic to a car, and refitted with a full geometry steering set up done.

The suspension is then adjusted to how you like it, (Sarah went for sporty!) and road tested until they are sure all is perfect.

Engine & Cooling System

The next decision for us was what to do with the engine, so we opted for their V12 30,000 mile perishable service, with full cooling system renewal, in Chris’s words “The cooling system renewal is so important for V12s because cooling was marginal when new, let alone with clogged old pipes and failing pumps”. There were other options, but as the car had only done 56,000 miles and only 6,000 since 2007 it was thought the engine wouldn’t warrant any more.

What is included in their V12 30,000 mile perishable service, is anything perishable being removed and in place a new radiator, hoses, drive belts, new plug leads and plugs, thermostats, water pump, new electric fan and fan couplings. This is followed by a full chemical flush of the engine coolant system and all oilways, followed by a full 30,000 mile service to body and engine, with any engine tuning needed to get it to the top notch performance you’d expect. Also the gearbox and differential oils are changed and in our case, gearbox mounting bushes changed, see the picture for what came out and what went back!

The Interior & Exterior

Next the cabin, and it wasn’t so difficult to sort this one, as the carpets, leather and wood were already in very good condition and in the way KWE do things, “Not really something we need to touch,” Chris advised us. Still it just needed something to finish it off and then with the options Chris suggested we saw what it was. We then dumped that dodgy 1990 black plastic steering wheel in favour of a gorgeous Motalita Mk5 flat spoke holed steering wheel with polished centre horn push and a change to the T-bar on the gear selector from black plastic to wood matching the dash and surrounds. It finished it to a tee. As a finale KWE gave the paint a machine polish and wax to the interior valet including the seats getting a proper clean and a leather feed, making them just so.

The Finishing Touch

The dashboard instruments had all the illumination of a Victorian candle in a hurricane, so we went for a full interior lighting and instrument panel LED upgrade, and just to make life difficult for KWE, we requested that they do an experimental LED upgrade (never done before on an XJS) of all the control switches on the dash and centre console. This included the heater controls as well. They came through on that task with flying colours.

We got the car back in June, after a much anticipated wait and well !!!!!, was Chris right, it corners on rails, glides along on its new running gear like it is on air. You can see at night, like a modern car. The engine purrs and even after a half hour sit in traffic in recent very hot weather it sat rock solid normal in the temp zone. We’re also averaging 18mpg around town and on a recent long run 23.5mpg.

Was it worth the cost? Well, we’ve spent quite a bit more than the value of the car but what a car it is now!

Worth it ? Oh yes without a doubt, we have an XJ-S Plus, all the car anyone could want from a Jaguar and then some.

With thanks to Dave and Sarah Ash.

Also to Jaguar enthusiast Magazine for publishing the article.

As of 13^th January 2018 a law has come into force requiring companies who accept credit card payments to absorb the charge that the credit companies levy on such transactions. This levy is typically between 2.5% and 3% (more for American Express). With high value transactions such as ours, this levy is very significant and can be many hundreds of pounds which previously was passed on to the customer since credit cards are a convenience for the client, not the supplier.

KWE now regrets that it can no longer as of 23^rd January 2018 accept credit cards as a means of payment. We are happy to accept debit cards, cheques and internet bank transfers.

This change has been made in our Terms of Business

We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause.

Imagine yourself cruising down the PCH in a gleaming Jaguar XJS, you’ve got the top down, Ray Bans on, and Santana’s playing on the radio while you’re taking in the stunning views at every turn… sounds good, right?

Well, why not get the world’s largest and most experienced Jaguar XJS restorations specialist make that dream a reality.

The Jaguar XJ-S is one of the most stylish sports touring cars in the world. It is entirely happy to be driven daily, whilst in great comfort and class. Owning an XJ-S marks you out as an individualist with impeccable taste. The feeling of grandeur you get while sitting in the cockpit wrapped in fine leather, wood and wool. Driving one makes you feel like you’re the king of the road, especially with KWE’s perfected steering, brakes and suspension set-up, ensuring you stay flat and low on the tarmac, while taking the sharpest of corners effortlessly. The all-aluminium V12 is the smoothest around – and one of the most reliable when properly restored and maintained.

“The suspension changes and power enhancement package have completely transformed this car. The difference between the standard set up and your upgrade is quite simply astonishing.”

- Dr C.S., Swindon, XJS Upgrade

Photo Credit: Robert Carley

The XJS is a great British classic that really stands out above the rest, that is why we at KWE are so dedicated and passionate about restoring these marvellous machines, transforming them into reliable, safe and excellent performing classic masterpieces.

“They’ve made it the car it should’ve been!”

- James May, BBC Top Gear

Maybe this is why we have seen our international clientele grow in recent years, especially from the U.S. This could also be down to the ever-growing investment value of a restored British classic like the XJS. We applaud our American clients that share our enthusiasm in making the XJS ‘the car it should’ve been’!

BringaTrailer.com have written a great article on the XJ-S, check it out here >> Why we love them: Jaguar XJ-S

Why send my XJS to KWE Cars to be restored?

We have restored over 350 XJSs covering all models, and gained over 15 years specialist experience, specifically on the XJS. KWE prides itself on being the largest and most experienced XJS specialist in world, bringing them up to ‘better than new’ standards. We have access to a wealth of Jaguar knowledge and genuine new and restored parts. All KWE cars have fully restored and uprated aircon systems. KWE offers a range of modernisations – better lighting, remote door unlock and boot release, one-touch window drop, daylight running lights, parking sensors, modern Bluetooth audio and bespoke solutions to suit your specific requirements.

How long does the restoration process take?

Typical turn-round time is 20 weeks, depending on level of restoration.

How do I transport my XJS to KWE in the UK?

We make the transport of US-registered cars to the UK easy with a door to door service via our trusted and vetted transportation partner CARS Europe.

Can KWE supply me with a LHD XJS base car?

We can offer a purchasing service in the US if customers do not already own one. There are no regulatory issues where the car is bought in the US, restored in the UK and returned. There are some great examples available on the US market, and at great prices compared to the UK and Europe at this time.

What about servicing and maintaining my KWE restored XJS in the states?

KWE will be offering support via appointed US service shops. There is also a good range of Jaguar parts suppliers in the US. But right now there are good specialist Jaguar shops around – and the car’s design is fairly simple, not requiring special equipment for maintenance (unlike modern cars)!

Can KWE add more power to my XJS?

KWE offer a range of performance enhancements for the V12 engines including sports stainless steel exhaust systems, digital engine management, free-flow inlet systems etc

When can KWE start my restoration?

If you already own an XJS you can order a restoration by us right now! Contact us today to start your XJS journey.

We are currently building a bespoke bodied XJS coupe for a client in Illinois - Take a look at the restoration gallery to get an idea of the work we put in to these superb classics.

Bespoke-bodied XJS coupe Restoration Gallery

Our California-based correspondent and friend Rhett Redelings elegantly explains what makes the XJS so special, and why he would choose the XJS over other classic cars available. Click the links below to find out what he has to say about these magnificent classics:

It’s been a while since our last exhibition, so we are thrilled to announce that KWE will exhibiting at the NEC Classic Motor Show on the 10th - 12th November.

We will be showcasing our fully restored XJS V12 Convertible, which underwent a complete restoration.

We look forward to seeing you there, come and visit us at our stand (2-455), we will be located in hall 2 stand 455 near the Silverstone auction.

If you haven’t already, book your tickets on the NEC website: http://www.necclassicmotorshow.com/

Download a printable floorpan map of the NEC to help you find us better

Knowles-Wilkins Engineering (KWE) Ltd has reached its 15^th Anniversary. From being very much new kids on the block back on 2002, we have become well known at home and abroad for our Jaguar XJS restoration and modernisation work. Owners Chris and Theresa Knowles started the company from their home and, perhaps surprisingly, took three major orders in the first two months, appeared on Top Gear twice and turned over around £100,000 before moving the business (and home) to Newbury, Berkshire in 2004. Since then we have restored over 300 cars, most with our admired full suspension/brakes/steering upgrade package.

We currently employ 10 staff and occupy three very busy premises on Greenham Business Park, and are currently recruiting. We would like to thank all of our past and present customers for their continued support and love for the Jaguar.

We have expanded our works to include XK, all XJ saloons, E Types and Aston Martin DB7s. We are continuing to develop, improve and revitalise these astounding classic and future classic cars.

KWE are now offering servicing for Jaguar X300, X308, X-Type, S-Type, XK8/R.

Happy owners! Chris & Theresa Knowles on KWE’s 15th Anniversary.

Jaguar Land Rover Classic electrifies the past with an inventive Jaguar E-type sports car featuring fully electric powertrain

• Acclaimed by Enzo Ferrari as “the most beautiful car in the world”, the Jaguar E-type now combines breathtaking beauty with zero emissions for the first time
• E-type Zero is based on 1968 Series 1.5 Jaguar E-type Roadster, and features a cutting-edge electric powertrain enabling 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds
• Engineered by Jaguar Land Rover Classic at company’s new ‘Classic Works’ in Warwickshire, UK
• E-type Zero makes world debut during Jaguar Land Rover Tech Fest at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London from 8-10 September
• E-Type Zero will sit alongside the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE at Tech Fest, which goes on sale in 2018

“E-type Zero combines the renowned E-type dynamic experience with enhanced performance through electrification. This unique combination creates a breathtaking driving sensation.

“Our aim with E-type Zero is to future-proof classic car ownership. We’re looking forward to the reaction of our clients as we investigate bringing this concept to market.”

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic

The Jaguar E-type Zero not only drives and looks like an E-type, it also offers outstanding performance. It’s quicker than an original E-type: 0-100km/h (62mph) takes only 5.5sec, about one second quicker than a Series 1 E-type.

“In order to seamlessly combine the new electric powertrain of E-type Zero with the dynamic set-up of the original E-type specification, we have limited the vehicle’s power output. We believe this provides the optimum driving experience.”

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic

The E-type Zero vehicle, displayed at Tech Fest, is a restored Series 1.5 Roadster. It’s totally original in specification, apart from its 21st century state-of-the-art powertrain and modified instrumentation and fascia – although these are also inspired by the original E-type. LED headlights are also used to achieve energy efficiency. Again, they adopt the styling theme of the original Series 1 E-type.

Bespoke electric powertrain

An electric powertrain developing 220kW has been specially designed for the E-type Zero. Its lithium-ion battery pack has the same dimensions, and similar weight, to the XK six-cylinder engine used in the original E-type. The experts responsible for developing the electric powertrain have ensured it will be placed in precisely the same location as the XK engine. The electric motor (and reduction gear) lies just behind the battery pack, in the same location as the E-type’s gearbox. A new propshaft sends power to a carry-over differential and final drive. Total weight is 46kg lower than the original E-type.

Using an electric powertrain with similar weight and dimensions to the outgoing petrol engine and transmission means the car’s structure, including suspension and brakes, has not changed, simplifying the conversion and homologation. It drives, handles, rides and brakes like an original E-type. Front-rear weight distribution is unchanged.

“We have integrated the new electric powertrain into the existing E-type structure, which means a conventional engine could be reinstalled at any point. We think this is essential as it ensures a period Jaguar remains authentic to its DNA.”

Tim Hannig

The XK six-cylinder engine was made from 1949 until 1992, and was fitted to nearly all iconic Jaguar models of that period, including the E-type, XK120, Mk2 and XJ6. The new electric powertrain could be used in any of these vehicles.

“We could use this technology to transform any classic XK-engine Jaguar.”

Tim Hannig

‘The most beautiful car ever made’

The E-type, launched in 1961, has regularly been voted the best-looking car of all time. Even Enzo Ferrari called it “the most beautiful car ever made”.

E-type Zero’s unique electric powertrain was developed by an electric powertrain specialist in conjunction with Jaguar Land Rover engineers and to a specific brief from Jaguar Land Rover Classic. It uses some technology and components borrowed from the upcoming I-PACE, Jaguar Land Rover’s first production all-electric vehicle.

The E-type Zero has a ‘real world’ range of 270km (about 170 miles), helped by the low weight and good aerodynamics. It uses a 40kWh battery, which can be recharged from home overnight (typically in six to seven hours, depending on power source).

This is an extremely interesting development from Jaguar Classics, one that we at KWE like very much, having put thought into a similar project for the XJS… now that would be an exciting prospect, a fully electric Jaguar XJS. It would make these beautiful, comfortable classics timeless and clean.