It would appear that the virtual reality craze has entered the automotive world as well. For increased realism, games and driving simulation systems have employed the technology to help provide gamers/users with a more immersive experience and a sense of realism that was inconceivable unless you were in the actual thing.
Jay Leno, the former Tonight’s Show host and comedian, decided to use this particular technology for a less serious reason. His team organised an event where his fans could show up, sit in his 1954 Jaguar XK120, put on their virtual reality googles and pretend that they are on a drive. But there is a twist, Jay was actually present during this and would engage in a conversation with them through, what many of them believed were an audio recording.
At the end of the session, they would take off their headset only to see the legendary denim clad comedian, standing beside the car with his usual signature grin. It was an eventful day for many, check out the video clip for the full story.
In general, the XK120 was manufactured by Jaguar from 1948 to 1954 ad was the follow up car to the SS 100. Initially, the cars had wood-framed open top bodies with aluminium panels but that changed in 1950 when the automaker switched to an all-steel construction.
The significance of the ‘120’ in the model designation was of great value at the time. It denoted the top speed of the car, which was 120 mph or 193 km/h. During that time, it was considered the XK120 was fastest production car in the world and broke several records.
It was powered by a 3.6-litre XK inline 6 engine but was also supposed to be offered with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder one, with the XK100 model name. The smaller engine vehicle was meant for the UK market but the project was canned before production started.
The XK120 was a well known car due to its speed and agility, which made it a formidable force in racing and rallying. Till today is a vehicle that is coveted and revered by many including those who aren’t that into cars. A considerable amount of money exchanges hands when an XK120 is sold, which is a testament to its value.
