February 28th may seem like an ordinary day, but it has seen some significant moments in automotive history. From new car unveilings to racing triumphs, this day has been witness to some unforgettable moments. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic events that happened on this day throughout history.
1991: Jaguar XJR-15 Unveiled
On February 28th, 1991, Jaguar unveiled the XJR-15, a limited-edition supercar that was designed and built by Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR). It was powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine that produced 450 horsepower and had a top speed of 191 mph (307 kph). Only 53 units were produced, making it a rare and sought-after collector’s item.
1993: Ayrton Senna Sets the Pace at Donington Park
On this day in 1993, Ayrton Senna set one of the most iconic laps in Formula 1 history during the European Grand Prix at Donington Park. Despite starting from fifth place on the grid, Senna made an incredible start and took the lead by the first corner. He then proceeded to lap the entire field up to second place, showcasing his incredible driving talent and cementing his place in racing history.
2002: Ford GT40 Concept Unveiled
On February 28th, 2002, Ford unveiled the GT40 concept car at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The car was a modern interpretation of the legendary GT40 race car that dominated Le Mans in the 1960s. The GT40 concept was powered by a 5.4-liter V8 engine that produced 500 horsepower and had a top speed of over 200 mph (321 kph). The car was later put into production and became one of the most iconic sports cars of the early 2000s.
2011: Pagani Huayra Makes its Debut
On this day in 2011, Pagani unveiled the Huayra, a new supercar that was the successor to the legendary Zonda. The Huayra was powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine that was developed by Mercedes-AMG and produced 700 horsepower. The car had a top speed of over 230 mph (370 kph) and featured advanced aerodynamics and cutting-edge technology. The Huayra was praised for its performance and design, and it quickly became a favorite among automotive enthusiasts.
Conclusion: February 28th has seen some of the most iconic moments in automotive history, from new car unveilings to racing triumphs. These events remind us of the rich history and heritage of the automotive industry, and we can only imagine what other unforgettable moments will be made in the future.