Scintillating

The Jaguar D-type was essentially a factory-built race car. Although the engine, a straight-6 XK engine design uprated to 3.8 liters, was mostly a carryover from the previous C-Type, the rest of the car was a radical departure from earlier Jaguars.

Most striking was the introduction of an aircraft-inspired monocoque chassis, ensuring a rigid, yet lightweight body. The world had not seen anything like this on four wheels. Rivets completed the aviation styling theme on the first ever monocoque chassis hammered out of aluminum. Malcolm Sayer was the mastermind behind the body works. Extensive wind tunnel testing resulted in the low CG and unique shark-like fin. This was definitely a car that fused aviation experiences learned from WWII into automotive design. A rocket on four wheels.