None Jaguar C-type

The Jaguar C-type is a highly coveted sports car built by the British automaker in the early 1950s. A limited production run of just 54 units, the C-type has become a timeless classic revered for its performance and beauty.

At the heart of the C-type is a 3.4-liter inline-six engine, designed and built in-house by Jaguar. It features twin overhead cams, hemispherical combustion chambers, and triple SU carburetors, producing an impressive 220 horsepower at 5,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, with a lightweight aluminum flywheel and clutch. The result is a top speed of around 150 mph and 0-60 mph acceleration in just over 8 seconds.

Chassis construction was similarly advanced for the era, utilizing a rigid steel spaceframe with aluminum panels formed over it. The C-type's weight-saving measures extended to skinny magnesium wheels and lightweight Dunlop disc brakes, which provided impressive stopping power.

Handling is traditionally Jaguar, with the C-type featuring a front wishbone and rear trailing arm suspension setup. The car also boasted a quick 15:1 steering ratio, which gave the driver precise control in all driving conditions.

The C-type was also notable for its aerodynamic design, which set the standard for other sports cars of the era. Its teardrop-shaped body was developed using wind tunnel testing, with the design featuring a sleek nose and flowing curves that reduced drag and improved stability. The car was also fitted with a wraparound windscreen and aerodynamic headrest, which became a hallmark of the C-type's design.

The C-type's racing pedigree is well-documented, with the car taking wins at Le Mans in 1951 and 1953. Back in the day, the C-type was seen as an engineering marvel and a symbol of Jaguar's technical prowess. Today, it is coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike, with examples selling for millions of dollars at auctions.

In summary, the Jaguar C-type is a true marvel of engineering and design, with its powerful engine, lightweight construction, and aerodynamic body setting the standard for sports cars of the era. Its place in racing history and the automotive industry as a whole is undeniable, and its timeless elegance and performance capabilities continue to captivate car enthusiasts over half a century later.