The upcoming auction at Monterey Car Week by RM Sotheby’s will showcase a truly special and rare vehicle: the 1957 Jaguar XKSS. This car holds a unique place in automotive history as it was originally a race car converted for road use. The XKSS is based on the iconic and Le Mans-winning Jaguar D-Type, which had triumphed at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race two years in a row.
After accomplishing such impressive racing feats, Jaguar made the decision to withdraw from racing at the end of the 1956 season. However, there were several spare D-Type chassis left over at the factory. Recognizing an opportunity to repurpose these chassis, Jaguar decided to convert them into road cars. This marked the birth of the XKSS, a road-going version of the powerful and competitive D-Type.
To transform the D-Type into a road car, Jaguar made certain modifications to the bodywork. The distinct racing fin was removed, and basic amenities were added, including a passenger door, a windshield, side curtains, and a folding top. However, the company retained the powerful inline-6 engine and other mechanical hardware from the D-Type. The end result was a car that retained the performance and spirit of a race car, but now offered the comfort and convenience of a road car. It was the perfect blend of style and speed.
Originally, Jaguar had planned to produce 25 XKSS cars. Unfortunately, a fire broke out at the factory, destroying nine chassis. As a result, only 16 XKSS cars were ultimately built. However, in 2016, Jaguar decided to “complete” the original production run by creating nine continuation cars. These continuation cars were faithfully built to match the specifications of the original XKSS, providing collectors and enthusiasts with a chance to own a brand new version of this legendary vehicle.
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The XKSS that will be auctioned off at Monterey Car Week holds the chassis number XKSS 707. This particular car was originally imported to the United States and left the factory in a beautiful cream color with red leather upholstery. However, tragedy struck before the car could be delivered to its first owner. Racer Lou Brero Sr., who had purchased the car, sadly passed away in a crash. The XKSS was subsequently sold to dealer Sammy Weiss, whose dealership in Sacramento, California, sold it to San Francisco resident Sidney Colberg in 1960.
Colberg owned and cherished the XKSS for a remarkable 15 years before selling it to British enthusiast Anthony Bamford, who would later become Lord Bamford. Since then, the car has remained in the UK, changing owners a few times along the way. Over the years, some cosmetic changes have been made to the XKSS. The original hood, which had been dented in racing incidents, was replaced, and the car was repainted in its current metallic blue color as a tribute to the Ecurie Ecosse race cars.
Remarkably, much of the car remains in its original condition. According to the auction listing, most of the bodywork, engine block, and head are still original, as are two of the three carburetors. The odometer shows 25,535 miles, which is believed to be the actual lifetime mileage of the car. This level of authenticity and originality adds to the car’s desirability and uniqueness.
Original XKSS cars rarely come up for auction, which explains the estimated sale price of $12-$14 million for this particular car. It’s important to note that even the continuation cars created by Jaguar sold for $1.5 million each when they were brand new. This is a testament to the significance and enduring popularity of the XKSS.
The upcoming auction at Monterey Car Week presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire a piece of automotive history. The 1957 Jaguar XKSS is a true gem, representing the pinnacle of Jaguar’s racing success and craftsmanship. Whether it ends up in a private collection or out on the open road, this car will continue to captivate and inspire all those who have the privilege of seeing it up close.
