Jaguar F-Type; 5 good reasons to travel with the English two-seater sports cars
Aesthetics, sound and performances of Jaguar’s modern classic, offered in coupe and convertible versions
From the visually masterful XK120 from the 50s to the recent F-Type considered by many as the e-TypE contemporary counterpart, Jag’s two-seater sports cars tradition has always combined aesthetics, emotions and speed. The strictly black F-Type Coupè and Cabriolet from our travel experiences in Italy, are of course no exception and this article describes five main qualities making the second generation of F-Type, a particularly beautiful and enjoyable car to voyage in.
The harmony of proportions
Long bonnet, sort of menacing look, sloping roof, compact interior and an enchanting silhouette from every single perspective. In terms of aesthetic harmony, the F-Type shouldn’t fear any rivals first and foremost because it manages to interpret - with apparent simplicity and elegance - the classic design of sports cars driven by a front engine, connected only to the rear axle. Although the total black look does hide some depths and cavities of its glorious body shape, overall result is extremely satisfying to look at.
Vintage sounds, enjoyable performances
The F-Type expresses its maximum potential with the 551bhp V8 engine but even opting for the new 2.0 biturbo, there is no shortage of fun. Thanks to a cavalry of 300 supported by specific mappings that modify its character, the basic model from the two-seater by Jaguar will reassure the gentlemen drivers with an enjoyable tendency towards oversteer, good cornering skills and gutsy accelerations. Selecting the sport driving mode, means the eight-speed ZF gearbox will follow manoeuvres at high pace and revs. Starting from a standstill, the 100km/h mark arrives in about 5.7 seconds while the top speed is 249 km/h with the 4-cylinder engine, and up to 300km/h with the F-Type R powered by a monumental 5.0 V8.
Coupe or Cabriolet?
The choice is not simple but surely both versions boast character, elegance and personality. Between the two, coupè lines are obviously cleaner in terms of both materials and style but of course - when allowed by the climate – a beautiful en plein air journey is priceless. For a short rental hence, the cabriolet F-Type has greater emotional potential and if the drivability is in normal driving conditions all in all similar, the most significant difference when organising long trips or even weekends, is in the boot space where the hardtop version has a capacity of 336 litres (equal to a 100 more or + 33% compared to the convertible).
The balanced F-Type blend
Aristocratic sports cars should always combine performances with comfort on long journeys and on this matter, the F-Type does not disappoint. Starting from its slender rear axle concealing boot and spoiler, Jag’s two-seater has a modern and livable cockpit and a overall balanced ride. Inside, occupants will appreciate the contained yet well-placed storage compartments, the sports seats with excellent ergonomics and a mixology of stitching, steel, carbon fiber and chrome. Few concessions are made to vivid colors, thus reflecting Jaguar’s preference for dark, atmospheric hues. Telematics are fairly easy to interact; the F-Type has a digital dashboard, many useful buttons are on the steering wheel and both Andorid / Apple Car Play can be mirrored on the screen.
A true modern classic
At home while climbing mountain roads and in gala occasions, the F-Type boasts an innate aesthetic and dynamic ease. Its design will surely withstand time and the absence electrified elements in her pulsing heart, evoke the most sentimental side of motoring. Lines are elegant, handling is sporty and in relation to its two-seater architecture, there is no shortage of comfort. In Italy, prices for a new Jaguar F-Type start at 66,500 euro while daily rental rates start at around 650 euros.
Matteo Morichini
My childhood memories are of arts, literature and visits of far away lands and now, I love writing about tourism, travel&motoring experiences as well as gastronomic cultures. Following the Degree in History & Politics and the Masters in International Relations at London School of Economics, I start my journalist career in 2004. Since then, I made it a point to visit all of the seven continents, while daily enhancing my passion and curiosity towards cuisine, charming hospitality and millenial traditions from the beautiful Italian territory
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