We guessed right! When we first talked with David Brown of David Brown Automotive he wouldn't tell us exactly what would underpin
the 'Project Judi' coupe
he'll be handbuilding to order in the not too distant future. We said Jaguar XK and a press release just issued says ... Jaguar XK! Specifically an 'optimised' XKR with 510hp from its supercharged V8, a six-speed auto, sub-five to 60 (0-62 in 4.8, 60 in 4.6 for you retro diehards) and a top speed limited to 155mph.
'Brisk yet refined' is the official description of the performance, David Brown Automotive's press release going on to praise the proven performance and reliability of the Jaguar underpinnings and the aluminium construction to match that of the Project Judi. "The XKR has been extensively developed and refined by one of the world's greatest car manufacturers, making it an obvious choice on which to base our car," says a deferential Brown.
Rear has a bit of Aston and a hint of Alfa 8C
And on top goes his own brand of hand crafted style, which as previously stated harks back to the voluptuous curves of 60s British coupes. "I wanted all the impact and style of a classic sports car, but with modern capabilities and conveniences. This is what I want in a car, but it's not something anyone really offers. So, I've created it myself."
The teaser pics offered up with the new press release are, well, teasing. But the light/grille detail would appear to have more than a whiff of the DB5 Brown owns himself while the circular rear light and Kamm-tailed kick to the bootlid continue the vibe, finished off with some neat looking chrome detailing.
More when we have it and the best of British to him. And the chaps wishing to revive TVR, whose job of creating a niche for limited production brutish British coupes just got even harder. Again.