Ambitious ‘Project Utah’ an Unorthodox Jaguar Mk2 Build
Video series documents a meticulous but unorthodox Toyota 2JZ powered 1966 Mk2 Jaguar build.
One of the greatest cars, bar none, that ever donned the Jaguar emblem was the Mk2. When the Mark 2 debuted in 1959 the sedan turned heads and became an instant hit. With sleek lines and purposeful stance; it is a car that is just exceptionally beautiful, graceful but agile. The Mk2 has become one of Jaguar’s most recognized cars, and certainly one its most influential.
Such a special car deserves special treatment. When the crew at Retropower Cars decided to take on a 1966 Mk2 barn find, they pulled out all the stops to build a truly unique restomod. Noted for their exquisite, seamless builds; we anticipated that their 1966 Jaguar Mk2 would be creative and precise. But with their reputation for building flawless Jaguars, they upped the ante with this ambitious undertaking.
The build, called “Project Utah,” is so named as an homage to the in-house name once used at Jaguar while developing the Mark in the early 1950s. Retropower has been releasing videos on their YouTube channel and Facebook posts documenting their progress.
Humble Beginnings
In the first video, we get a glimpse of the classic car. Basically the guys have a shell of a Jaguar chassis that had seen better days.
Wisely, Retropower was given a wide berth to be creative in the restoration. After consulting with the owner, they came up with a brilliant plan of action. Drawing inspiration from the era, they wanted to Project Utah to look and feel like a ’66 Mk2, but with a few changes.
The concept for Project Utah comes from many sources of inspiration, classic Jaguar (natch), as well as sports cars and race cars of the era. But what is special here is using concept cars as a concept. Compiling some memorable examples, the team uses this as inspiration–with an actual mood board hanging above the project.
Each vehicle has a specific feature or design element that will be incorporated into the build.
A lot of focus was put on performance. As a result, the powerplant choice was a little unorthodox: a naturally aspirated Toyota 2JZ, with a set of individual throttle bodies. Yes, this is the same twin-turbo engine that powered the Supra. Retropower has made a bold choice here, and definitely one that should pay off quite powerfully.
Bodywork would be custom to befit the car, but allow for bespoke details. What is refreshing in the videos is the palpable excitement. This is going to be a long road, but Retropower is thrilled.
Rolling Up Sleeves
Moving forward, there is much to be done. Episodes Two and Three go into tech details. From sandblasting to paint; custom fabrication to metalwork, we see it all. It is an excellent opportunity to pick up some tips from the pros, or just marvel at the process.
It is a marvel how much detail goes into every nut and bolt. Team member Stu’s custom sheet work and craftsmanship is stunning.
By Episode Four the fabrication progresses, and the bespoke dashboard is assembled. As parts start to arrive, we expand to the gearbox, suspension, and eventually the powerplant.
Now at Episode 5, we’re starting to see the vision start to come together nicely. From the interior to the exterior, the Jaguar Mk2 is rising like a Pheonix from the flames, but this big cat has a little something extra.
We find this one-of-a-kind Jaguar build projects truly fascinating, and we cannot wait to see the finished product. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, check out Retropower’s YouTube channel to watch the videos. They’re very interesting, and might just inspire a few Jaguar owners on their own rides.
Photos: Retropower Cars
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