Vanished Jaguar XJ220 Racer Found In Ostrich Shed

Kileen Pitt Kileen Pitt Mar 21, 2024 Found
Vanished Jaguar XJ220 Racer Found In Ostrich Shed

In an intriguing twist of fate, a Jaguar XJ220, a jewel among sports cars with a production limited to just over 200 units, was unearthed in an ostrich shed, marking an unexpected chapter in its storied existence. Initially deployed to the Fast Masters, a racing series conceived for television, this particular model faced an untimely retirement, relegated to an extended slumber among ostriches at a TWR facility.

The narrative of this XJ220, however, was destined for a revival, courtesy of Don Law Racing. The racing outfit not only salvaged this forgotten racer but also restored it, along with five others, to their former glory. These vehicles, originally designed for high-speed competition, received comprehensive overhauls, transforming them into road-legal masterpieces.

The journey from neglect to restoration began when Don Law Racing discovered the XJ220s gathering dust in the unlikely setting of an ostrich breeding shed. Recognizing the potential in these neglected racers, the team embarked on a mission to resurrect them. The XJ220 in question was particularly notable for its involvement in the Fast Masters series, which had seen its fair share of automotive carnage, with every participating XJ220 experiencing a crash by the series' conclusion.

The resurrection process entailed not only repairs and restoration but also a significant conversion effort to make the vehicles suitable for road use. Each car received a fresh coat of black paint and was adorned with original Fast Masters decals, preserving a tangible link to its racing heritage. Additionally, new tires were developed to ensure the car's performance remained uncompromised on modern roads.

This remarkable tale of rediscovery and renewal underscores the enduring allure of the Jaguar XJ220. Once consigned to oblivion in an ostrich shed, the vehicle now thrives as a road-legal reminder of its racing lineage. Thanks to the meticulous efforts of Don Law Racing, this XJ220 and its peers stand as testaments to the timeless appeal and resilience of classic sports cars.