In March of this year, we talked a bit about the announcement by Jaguar that it planned to build a few continuation cars of one of its most iconic models- the XKSS. Jaguar has now announced that the world debut of the XKSS will happen in November in California. The presentation of the car will coincide with the opening of the LA Auto Show that month.
The Legacy of the XKSS
The Jaguar XKSS is not just any car; it is a legend in the automotive world. Originally built in 1957, the XKSS was a road-going version of the D-Type racing car, which had won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times in a row from 1955 to 1957. The XKSS was intended to be a limited production run of 25 units, but a tragic fire at Jaguar’s Browns Lane factory destroyed nine of these cars, leaving only 16 in existence. These remaining cars have since become some of the most sought-after and valuable classic cars in the world.
Jaguar’s decision to build nine continuation XKSS cars is a tribute to the original models lost in the fire. Each of these new cars will be meticulously hand-built to the exact specifications of the 1957 models, using the same materials and techniques. This means that the continuation XKSS will not only look like the original but will also drive and perform like it, offering a truly authentic experience for collectors and enthusiasts.
Details of the Continuation Models
Jaguar has announced that all nine of the continuation XKSS cars are already sold, with the first customer deliveries expected to happen in early 2017. The price for each of these cars is over $1 million, reflecting their exclusivity and the craftsmanship involved in their creation. The buyers of these cars are likely to be serious collectors who appreciate the historical significance and rarity of the XKSS.
In addition to the XKSS, Jaguar is also focusing on another iconic model, the Lightweight E-type. In 2015, Jaguar built six continuation Lightweight E-types, completing the original planned production run of 18 cars from the 1960s. These cars were built to the exact specifications of the original Lightweight E-types, which were designed for racing and featured an aluminum body and a powerful 3.8-liter straight-six engine.
Jaguar has announced plans to race the Lightweight E-type chassis number 15, one of the six continuation models made in 2015. This car will make its racing debut at the Le Mans Classic Circuit de la Sarthe on July 9. Chris Harris, now a presenter on Top Gear, will drive the car at the race. The E-type reproduction is period perfect and legal for historic motorsports racing according to Jaguar.
The Le Mans Classic is a prestigious event that celebrates the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most famous endurance races in the world. The event features races for classic cars that have competed at Le Mans in the past, and it attracts thousands of spectators and enthusiasts from around the world. The participation of the Lightweight E-type in this event is a testament to Jaguar’s commitment to preserving its racing heritage and showcasing the capabilities of its classic models.
Jaguar’s efforts to build continuation models of the XKSS and Lightweight E-type are part of a broader trend in the automotive industry, where manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the value of their heritage and the demand for classic cars. By creating these continuation models, Jaguar is not only honoring its past but also providing a new generation of enthusiasts with the opportunity to experience the thrill of driving some of the most iconic cars ever made.
via Jaguar
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