You may remember Jaguar XKSS, because of its unique shape, from the documentaries you might have seen from early Le Mans races where it actually one three events as the D-type. Well, Jaguar Classic is now building nine road-going version of that car. For fun!
Actually, it’s more for money than fun. A while ago they resurrected the Lightweight E-Type racer and sold a limited number of them at staggeringly high prices. It’d be the same story with the Jaguar XKSS. They are building nine cars to the exact 1957 specification, and each is going to cost in excess of £1 million.
The main motivating factor for bringing back the Jaguar XKSS from the afterlife is fulfilling a duty the company was carrying around for more than half a century. Back in 1957 they made 16 XKSS models to be sent to America, but then nine of them were lost in the Browns Lane factory fire. It only took Jaguar 59 years to get around replacing them, but they’re doing it.
Tim Hannig, Director Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “The XKSS occupies a unique place in Jaguar’s history and is a car coveted by collectors the world over for its exclusivity and unmistakable design. Jaguar Classic’s highly skilled team of engineers and technicians will draw on decades of knowledge to ensure each of the nine cars is completely authentic and crafted to the highest quality. Our continuation XKSS reaffirms our commitment to nurture the passion and enthusiasm for Jaguar’s illustrious past by offering exceptional cars, services, parts and experiences.”