We just recently spoke about the possibility of the upcoming 2020 Jaguar F-Type using a BMW-sourced V8. It wouldn’t be the first time BMW has lent engines to other brands and it likely won’t be the last. However, it got me thinking, what would happen if a bunch of brands collaborated to make one perfect car? So we decided to make a Frankenstein Car of several different brands’ bits. Just in time for Halloween, too.
Much like Frankenstein, we have to start with a body (a car body, relax). So if you could choose any car body that’s currently on sale today, which would it be? For me, it’d be the Jaguar F-Type Coupe, ironically. I just think it’s the prettiest car on the road, with its gorgeous rear haunches, tucked nose and sexy silhouette. Just stunning. Plus, I’m a sucker for front-engine coupes.
Next, we need an interior. While the cabin of the F-Type isn’t bad, it’s not great, either. It’s design is only okay, some of its materials are a bit suspect and the technology is poor. So rather than the Jag’s cabin, I’m taking one from the Porsche 911. I know, I know, that’s not exactly the most exciting choice but its driver-focused cockpit, perfect ergonomics and perfect gauges make it the sort of driver’s-car-cabin that I love. And this is my Frankenstein Car, so I’ll do what I want.
Now it’s time to choose the powertrain — engine, transmission and exhaust. We’ll keep these tied together, just because it makes it a bit easier. But for the engine, I’m going to have to go with the BMW M5’s S63 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8. I was tempted to go with something naturally-aspirated and exotic but having recently driven the M5, I’ve never felt something so explosively powerful, yet buttery smooth. The only other engine I’ve ever preferred driving more has been the 6.2 liter naturally-aspirated V8 of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG but that isn’t on sale anymore so I can’t use its engine, here.
Next up is the suspension and steering. I’m going to have to take the setup from the Porsche Cayman, specifically the PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) setup. There’s just so much balance to it and I’m not just talking about its mid-engine nature but it’s actual suspension. It has the ability to be both supple and composed, regardless of road surface, is admirable and in a coupe like the Jaguar F-Type, which itself is too stiff, that’s a desirable trait. Especially with 600 ponies lurking beneath. Also, the Cayman’s steering is some of the best I’ve ever felt, with a combination of delicacy and accuracy found in few other, if any, cars on the market today.
So that’s my Frankenstein Car — A Jaguar F-Type body with a Porsche 911 interior, a BMW M5 powertrain and the suspension and steering from a PASM-equipped Porsche Cayman. What would be yours?
