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The XJ220 in Detail: Suspension and Ground Effects
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Ground effects seek to use the airflow around the car to help it handle. The entire car is shaped like an inverted airplane wing. The low nose and chin spoiler on the XJ220 restrict air from passing beneath the car. Whatever air does pass, flows smoothly along the featureless underside. Towards the rear of the car, two cavernous venturi tunnels (visible just in front of the rear wheel) cause the speed and pressure of the air to drop tremendously. The car is sucked into the road by the resulting vacuum effect. Although most of the car is aluminum, the under body panels are made of carbon composites for rugged durability. Note the cast aluminum wheels, these ride on peg drive hubs.
In this photo, the venturi tunnels can be seen exiting the rear of the car. Also visible are the twin mufflers. Trunk spoiler reduces drag. Muffler system is located behind the rear grille.
(Apologies for appearance: this car had just been at a show, it was a very wet day)
This close-up of the rear suspension illustrates attention to detail. The lower control arm passes through the venturi tunnel, and is therefor aerodynamically shaped to reduce air resistance. The suspension is vaguely reminiscent of an E-type, although it has both upper and lower control arms. Twin shock absorbers with coil over springs (not visible) are mounted horizontally to the top of the hub carrier, another technique for reducing air resistance. Note fasteners in carbon composite under panel. These allow the entire panel to be removed for easy access to engine, transmission and suspension components.
(Apologies for appearance: this car had just been at a show, it was a very wet day)
The front suspension is like an E-type on steroids. Upper and lower control arms, forged and plated upright. But the shocks are mounted horizontally to reduce air resistance. Entire suspension has been located to reduce impact on airflow.
XJ220 body shells in process at Abbey Panels. The panels are a sandwich of thin aluminum sheets, with a bonded honeycomb aluminum filling. Assembly is accomplished using high-tech adhesives, combined with traditional techniques. The roll cage is integral with the body structure.
Technical Specifications
Suspension, General: fully independent, unequal length double wishbones, inboard coil springs and shocks, sway bars front and rear
Steering: Mechanical Rack and Pinion
Brakes: AP Racing 4 piston, alloy calipers, vented rotors, outboard
Tires: Bridgestone Expedia 255/45ZR17 front, 345/35ZR18 rear
Aerodynamics: CD .36, CZ -0.25
Weight: 3234lbs
About the author - Michael Frank is Vice President and Webmaster of the Jaguar Touring Club. His red 2+2 E-type is a familiar sight at JCNA events in the Northeast. Currently, he is building a reproduction of the 1963 Cunningham Lightweight E-type.
Acknowledgment - This automobile is presented through the courtesy of Automotive Restorations, 1785 Barnum Avenue, Stratford, CT 06614. AR is a fully equipped automotive restoration shop, with expertise in Jaguar and other fine collectible cars. They can be contacted at 203-377-6745.
Copyright © 2001 Michael Frank, New York. All rights reserved.
Posted: 9/2001
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© 2001 JAGUAR CLUBS OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
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