Jaguar D-Type
The Jaguar D-Type is a factory-built race car that continued the legacy started by its predecessor, the C-Type. It featured a straight-6 XK engine that was initially 3.4L and eventually increased to 3.8L in the late fifties. The notable advancement in the model was its monocoque chassis, which introduced aircraft-style engineering to competition car design and also helped promote an understanding of aerodynamic efficiency. The D-Type was produced solely for racing; however, when Jaguar ceased their racing involvement, the remaining unfinished chassis were adapted for public roads and became the Jaguar XK SS. Modifications to the racers included the addition of an extra seat, an extra door, a full windshield, and a simple folding top. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed nine of the 25 cars that had already been completed or semi-completed at the Browns Lane plant. It is believed that production included a total of 53 customer D-Types, 18 factory team cars, and 16 XKSS versions.
When it comes to design, the Jaguar D-Type made great use of monocoque principles. Its central tub, where the driver sat, was made from aluminium alloy with an aluminium tubing subframe attached to it. This subframe housed the bonnet, engine, suspension, and steering assembly, while the rear suspension and final drive were attached to the monocoque itself. Additionally, the monocoque used fuel bag cells, another WWII aircraft advancement.
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