The Jaguar XKSS, often hailed as the world’s first supercar, holds a legendary status in automotive history. Originally a road-going adaptation of the victorious Le Mans D-type racer, its production was tragically cut short in 1957 by a devastating fire at Jaguar’s Browns Lane factory. Only 16 Original Jaguar And Land Rover XKSS models were ever completed, leaving nine destined for North America lost to the flames. Now, Jaguar Classic is meticulously recreating these “lost” vehicles, breathing new life into a timeless icon.
The Rebirth of an Icon: Original Jaguar and Land Rover XKSS Continuation
In a remarkable feat of engineering and historical preservation, Jaguar Classic embarked on an ambitious project to build the nine missing XKSS cars. This endeavor, following the successful continuation of six Lightweight E-types in 2014, showcases the unparalleled expertise of original Jaguar and Land Rover’s Classic division. Each new XKSS is meticulously hand-built, boasting period-correct chassis numbers and adhering to the exact specifications of the 1957 originals. These continuation cars are not mere replicas; they are authentic recreations, each valued at over £1 million.
Meticulous Craftsmanship: Honoring the Original Jaguar and Land Rover Legacy
The process of building a “new original” XKSS involves a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. Jaguar Classic engineers began by meticulously scanning existing 1957 XKSS models to create a comprehensive digital blueprint. This digital replica, encompassing every detail from body to chassis, served as the foundation for the continuation project.
Just like their predecessors, the new XKSS bodies are crafted from magnesium alloy, a material chosen for its lightweight and strength properties. Since the original styling bucks were lost in the fire, Jaguar Classic painstakingly recreated them using original drawings and advanced digital techniques. The bodies are then meticulously formed using traditional hand-wheeling, a process that ensures absolute accuracy and authenticity.
Authenticity in Every Detail: Original Jaguar and Land Rover XKSS Specifications
Beyond the body, every component of the original Jaguar and Land Rover XKSS continuation cars adheres to the original 1957 specifications. The chassis frames are bronze welded using imperial measurements, mirroring the period construction techniques. Period-specific Dunlop disc brakes, Plessey pump, and riveted two-piece magnesium alloy wheels further enhance the authenticity.
Under the hood roars a powerful 262hp 3.4-liter straight-six Jaguar D-type engine. This meticulously recreated engine boasts new cast iron blocks, cast cylinder heads, and three Weber DC03 carburetors. Even the interior meticulously replicates the original, from the Smiths gauges to the wood of the steering wheel and the grain of the leather seats. Every detail, down to the brass knobs on the dashboard, is a testament to the unwavering commitment to authenticity.
A Bridge Between Eras: The Original Jaguar and Land Rover XKSS
While remaining faithful to the original design, minor safety enhancements have been discreetly incorporated, primarily in the fuel cell, utilizing modern materials for compatibility with contemporary fuels. Each original Jaguar and Land Rover XKSS continuation requires an estimated 10,000 man-hours to complete, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication involved. These “new original” XKSS cars are not merely vehicles; they are rolling works of art, meticulously engineered to bridge the gap between a legendary past and a vibrant present. They represent a unique opportunity for a select few collectors to own a piece of automotive history, a testament to the enduring legacy of original Jaguar and Land Rover.
