A Glimpse into Automotive Royalty
For those who appreciate the fusion of racing pedigree with road-going poise, the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history returns. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS, a vehicle that embodies the zenith of classic car collection, is slated for auction. RM Sotheby’s London Peninsula Auction, a debut event, is set to feature chassis No. XKD 540, a gem among its kind, on the 2nd of November.
The Legacy of the XKSS
The model in question belongs to an exclusive cadre of 16 XKSS two-seaters, which were masterfully converted from the Le Mans–conquering D-Type race cars by Jaguar between 1957 and 1958. Its allure is magnified by the fact that it is one of a mere duo to boast its original, and highly sought-after, XKD chassis number. Its counterpart, chassis No. XKD 533, resides in the esteemed collection of fashion luminary Ralph Lauren.
An Exemplar of Preservation and Provenance
The XKSS offered is a paragon of automotive excellence, as Michael Squire, RM Sotheby’s director of research, affirms to Robb Report. This particular XKSS is not only well-documented and meticulously preserved but has also been maintained with the utmost care throughout its existence.
Aesthetic Prowess Unveiled
Adorned in a commanding black hue complemented by a black leather interior, this prized automobile is marked by its exposed, riveted-aluminum side panels and two-piece magnesium-alloy wheels, the latter accented with striking red-painted centers. Despite undergoing a careful restoration, the car retains a captivating patina, most notably on its dashboard, which bears the marks of time and spirited use.
The Spirit of the XKSS
Squire remarks on the authentic charm of the car, noting its 69-year journey through races and rigorous drives, which has bestowed upon it a distinguished, matured character.
From Race Track to Road: The Transformation
The history of XKD 540 is a storied one, beginning its life as a “short-nose” D-Type race car, clothed in the iconic British Racing Green with a green-leather interior, and departing Jaguar’s Browns Lane factory on the 1st of November, 1955. Its first custodian was Phil Scragg, a British textile magnate with a penchant for hill-climbing, who acquired the car in April 1957.
Scragg later returned the vehicle to Jaguar for conversion to the road-legal XKSS specification—a process that involved significant modifications to its race-bred body and features.
The Birth of the Supercar
Jaguar’s strategic move to repurpose its D-Type race cars into road-legal vehicles following its racing departure in 1956 resulted in the creation of what many regard as the world’s first supercar—the XKSS.
The Power Within
Under the bonnet lies a 3.8-liter straight-six engine, robust and ready, producing close to 250 horsepower—a testament to Jaguar’s engineering prowess and the car’s racing roots.
The Saga of XKD 540
XKD 540’s tale is rich, involving multiple custodians, each contributing to its legacy—from British hill-climber Jack Browning to Australian motorsport enthusiast Colin Hyams, and notable Jaguar aficionados along the way.
A Snapshot in Time
A cherished photograph in the car’s history features legendary racers Jim Clark and Jackie Stewart, offering a glimpse into the vehicle’s storied past during the 1967 Tasman race series.
The Journey Continues
The car’s provenance continues to unfold, having been cherished by collectors across continents, from the UK to Australia, and back again. Each owner has imparted their touch, ensuring XKD 540 remains not only a collector’s piece but a living legend.
A Centrepiece for the Connoisseur
As the first XKSS to grace an auction in Europe, chassis No. XKD 540 is poised to become the crown jewel of any premier collection, with its value estimated to reach the celestial heights of $14.4 million.
For more visuals of this rare specimen, the 1957 Jaguar XKSS, please refer to the gallery below.
