HIGHLIGHTS
- Impressive historic recreation
- Excellent British Racing Green paintwork
- 3.8-litre Jaguar XK engine
- Only 76 miles since completion of the build in 2009
- Perfect track day racer
THE APPEAL
Designed to compete at the Le Mans 24 hour, the factory D-Types succeeded in their mission, crossing the finish line ahead of the competition in 1955, ’56 and ’57. Reaching speeds of 175 mph down the Mulsanne straight, the slippery aerodynamic body tub, with it’s distinctive stabiliser fin and straight-six XK engine clearly performed well. Total production is thought by some to have been around 71 D-Types, including 18 for factory teams and 53 for privateers.
According to the V5C, this high quality replica is based on a Jaguar MkIX (believed to be a Realm kit). It also incorporates a number of upgraded and proven components.
This stunning example is about as close as you will get to the original D-Type in terms of looks and performance - and at a fraction of the cost. If you're looking for your next track day or hill-climb car, this is definitely worth a closer look…
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Donor MK IX registered on the 6th February 1959
- Up to date V5 in the owner’s name
- Not registered until 2021
- Vin plate in-situ
- Two letters to the DVLA
- Build completion invoice from 2009
- A few servicing invoices from specialists
- Some previous MOT’s
- Last ‘Pass’ MOT carried out in March 2017 at 52 miles
- Untaxed
Historically speaking, this build began life with its first owner, a gentleman from the Isle of Wight. For reasons unknown to us, he didn’t complete the project and subsequently sold it to the current owner in 1995 as a rolling chassis and tuned engine with the separate body.
The current owner is a Jaguar enthusiast having been the custodian of numerous other Jaguars and interesting classic and vintage cars over the years.
Once purchased, he found that kids and life got in the way of finishing the car until 2009, when he commissioned Jaguar specialists K & N Classic Cars, West Sussex, to supply all the parts, finish the build and set up the mechanicals. The car has subsequently remained in its garage.
It should be noted, the car does not come with a DVLA Type Approval certificate and therefore should be considered suitable for track day and competition use only at this time.
It should be noted, the car does not come with a DVLA Type Approval certificate and therefore should be considered suitable for track day and competition use only at this time.
THE INTERIOR
- Excellent condition throughout
- Genuine instrumentation and switchgear
- 3-point harnesses
The cockpit is in excellent condition and offers original race car features and aluminium panels with a little touch of comfort by way of black carpeting.
Once in the low driver’s seat, you can fully appreciate the purposeful nature of this special car and, if you have company, the passenger compartment cover is easily removed to allow access.
A befitting wood-rimmed aluminium steering wheel and Jaguar emblem sit before you. Original style Smiths and Lucas instrumentation and switchgear is positioned on the smooth matt black dash and are accompanied by a period rear view mirror and an electrical cut-off switch.
The stubby gear lever is topped with aluminium and the handbrake sits behind, while the the leather grain vinyl seats and driver’s head rest look the part and are undamaged. Securon 3-point harnesses are fitted and goggles are supplied.
THE EXTERIOR
- Impressive quality body and detailing
- Superb paintwork
- Lucas ‘Le Mans 24’ headlights
The authentically detailed reproduction of this D-Type is largely formed in fibreglass and encompasses the rivets and details associated with the gorgeous styling of the original 1950’s race cars.
The glossy British Racing Green paintwork is in great condition save for a few minor scuffs to the lower front of the clam-shell bonnet. We didn’t detect any other obvious scratches, gel-coat deterioration or ‘spiders’.
This model is fitted with a clear, undamaged, full width perspex screen and side screens, as well as perspex headlight covers enclosing Lucas ‘Le Mans 24’ headlights. Lucas indicators and rear lights feature along with a brilliant fin roundel light.
A single Wingard ‘bullet’ mirror is attached and there is a Monza quick release fuel filler cap under the lockable aluminium cover.
Satisfactory painted steel wheels have dummy chrome wheel spinners attached and are shod with a set of four older Michelin XWX 205/70 VR15 tyres with plenty of tread.
THE MECHANICS
- Glorious 3.8-litre straight-six twin-cam
- Triple Weber carburettors
- Modern upgrades
The dependable 3.8-litre straight-six engine sits neatly under the clam-shell bonnet. Aluminium panels line the bulkhead and sides, and despite some minimal surface corrosion here and there, the front chassis and components look sound.
We cannot confirm if this is the original donor engine or the mileage. The minimal mileage could indicate an engine rebuild prior to 1995 or, of course, the attachment of a new speedometer during the final build in 2009 (see photo of invoice).
We can see that the car has been fitted with triple dual-throat Weber carburettors attached, suggesting impressive induction noise should be on offer. The car offers a four-speed manual transmission, while modern Spax coilovers sit up front with twin coilovers on the independent rear suspension. Disc brakes are fitted all round as well as a twin stainless steel side exit exhaust.
Due to a flat battery, we couldn’t fire up the engine on the day of the photoshoot and had to push it out of its garage, but we are assured by the owner’s son that it starts and runs well with no known faults. Due to lack of use, the fluids and mechanicals will require a thorough checking over.
Hardly driven, the last specialist servicing was undertaken by MCS Motorsport, West Sussex, in March 2017 (see photo of invoice).
SUMMARY
Keen to rekindle your racing driver aspirations? Then this exhilarating replica should offer a combination of wind-in-the-hair fun and sheer unadulterated driving pleasure as you roar around your favourite circuit or up your favourite hill-climb.
Staggeringly beautiful from every angle, this replica D-Type undoubtedly represents a rare opportunity to own a largely unused, very affordable and appreciating recreation of a successful and legendary race car.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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