Ever come across a car that makes you stop in your tracks? Now imagine getting a close-up look at one of the rarest, most powerful machines to have ever torn through a racetrack: the 1987 Jaguar XJR-7. And the kicker? It’s now part of the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum's collection in Philadelphia. That's right, gearheads.
Rogers' Generous Gift Shakes Up the Museum Scene
Jim Rogers of Vero Beach, Florida, along with his wife Mary, just donated this engineering marvel — the very first XJR-7, chassis XJR-7/001, to be exact. Why does this matter? Because these cars are like the unicorns of the racing world. Developed by Group 44, Bob Tullius’ band of car wizards, this beauty is packing a 7.0-liter Jaguar V12 with 720 ponies under its sleek hood. As the museum doors swing open, this car will be more than a static relic; it stands as a testament to a racing era that pushed limits.
The Racing Pedigree and Legacy
Let's talk history. The XJR-7 made a serious entrance into the racing scene back in the day. It competed fiercely in the IMSA GT Championship, going toe-to-toe with mighty rivals like the Porsche 962 and Nissan GTP. Driven by legends like Hurley Haywood, Brian Redman, and John Morton, this car clinched Group 44's final victory at the West Palm Beach 3 Hours. How’s that for a pedigree? From its first glory-filled race at the 1985 Daytona 3 Hours, it went on a blazing trail to make its final stand at the 1988 Daytona 24 Hours before slipping into the arms of the Rogers in 1992.
“XJR-7/001 was the culmination of three decades of racing excellence by Group 44 and Bob Tullius.” — Harry Hurst, Director of Programs
A New Gem Amongst Greats
Simeone Museum isn't laughing when it says it showcases the finest sports and racing cars in the world. You’re talking over 70 cars that each tell a story, a piece of history clutched in steel frames and roaring engines. With cars like the 1966 Ford GT40 MkII and the 1970 Porsche 917 LH already on display, the XJR-7 joins an elite club. And this ain't just about nostalgia. This is about showcasing the spirit of competition, the raw drive etched into the metal of every car in that room.
What to Expect on Your Visit
Setting foot inside the Simeone is like stepping onto holy ground for any motorsport enthusiast. The XJR-7 will not just sit behind ropes for you to gawk at. This museum believes in educating through action, with live demonstrations and public programs aplenty. You get to see the vehicles not just as museum pieces but as the roaring beasts they really are.
- Open Tuesday to Friday, 10AM - 6PM
- Weekend hours: 10AM - 4PM
- Admission: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors
- Kids under 18 get in free — future gearheads in the making!
A Testament to Ingenuity and Passion
Kevin Kelly, the Executive Director of the Museum, can't help but brim with pride about the XJR-7’s arrival. He sees it as more than just a donation; it’s a nod to American ingenuity and the competitive spirit. And who knows, maybe seeing this car in person will spark something in the next generation, proving yet again that old racing legends never die — they get immortalized in the Simeone.
For more on this iconic collection and future events, you might want to keep an eye on the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum's schedule. Because, let’s face it, you never know what other treasures will roll through those doors.
