2016 Jaguar F-TYPE Project 7 Convertible

Production of the E-Type race car lasted for about fifteen years and helped expand the company's reputation for luxury, design, and performance to even greater levels. In 2012, Jaguar used the Paris Motor Show to introduce its F-Type. In a way, it was a modern interpretation of the E-Type using many styling cues for the roadster and coupe body styles. They had long hoods and short rear decks, a cockpit-like interior, and swept-back headlights. Early examples were powered by supercharged V-6 and V-8 engines backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and later a six-speed manual gearbox.

Brazilian–Italian designer Cesar Pieri showed Jaguar design chief Ian Callum a sketch for an F-Type that would honor the D-Type in its detailing and the E-Type in its profile. The name is in reference to Jaguar's seven victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, three of those victories were by the D-Type. A single-seater, open-top concept of the Project 7 was shown in 2014 at Goodwood. The final production versions had a roof and an extra seat.


Based on the F-Type Convertible, the Project 7 was powered by a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine offering 575 PS. A prototype version was shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and soon Jaguar's SVR division greenlighted the project with the goal of matching its performance with its styling. Since the F-Type SVR was also in development, the Project 7 served as a way to garner interest. Production was limited to 250 examples worldwide, with 50 of those going to American buyers.

The F-Type SVR has all-wheel drive, while the Project 7 has a rear-wheel drive setup. In attempts to keep the overall weight to a minimum, the Project 7 does not have a power convertible top; instead it has the traditional snap-on rain fly. Behind the driver is a D-Type-inspired 'aero hunch' and the rear spoiler is fixed for improved downforce at speed. Available colors included British Racing Green, white, and blue.

This particular example is finished in British Racing Green with white stripes, racing roundels, and the interior is trimmed in black diamond-stitch leather upholstery. It was initially celebrity-ordered and delivered to Jaguar Nashville but ultimately acquired by and registered with its first and current owner in California. During its brief existence, it has been driven 4,800 miles.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2019