Fantasy Junction

Description

1952 Jaguar C-Type Replica by Proteus
s/n 672749, Engine no. W5758-8
British Racing Green with Black Interior

A great sports car earns its legacy three ways. Some are superlative in design, others proven on the racetrack, or via engineering prowess. In the case of the C-Type Jaguar, it is masterfully inclusive of all three. The legendary Malcolm Sayer designed the C-Type body with beauty and aerodynamic efficiency in mind. Coupled with the twin cam XK series engine and disc brakes, C-Types dominated races, winning at Le Mans in 1951 and again in 1953. With a mere 52 examples assembled at the factory, it should come as no surprise that some of the finest C-Types are selling for eight figures at premium auctions. For the motoring enthusiast who seeks the experience of such a great car, a faithful re-creation, uniting authenticity with upgraded engineering, becomes an inviting proposition for miles of enjoyment.

In the 1980s, GT Cars was commissioned to build this Jaguar C-Type by a wealthy private colelector who insisted on careful attention to originality and fabrication, befitting a car of this status, suggesting “It should be as close to an original C-Type as money can buy”. At that time, Proteus, now a premier fabrication house creating some of the best C-Type replicas in the world, had just started their operation. GT Cars ordered all available options from Proteus and expert fabricators John Natolie and Jeff Flynn began the painstaking task of building this detailed replica. This car was assembled using an original 1952 3.4 Liter Jaguar engine procured from an XK120 which was balanced and rebuilt for specifically for this car. The 1952 XK120 body tag was riveted to the firewall at assembly and indicates the engine number, which matches with the number stamped on the head currently in the car. Large SU H8 sand cast carburetors were installed with a handmade aluminum airbox, feeding the twin-cam engine. A Moss gearbox was used for shifting duties much as they were in original Jaguars. Dunlop disc brakes were mounted at all four wheels and correctly painted 16” wire wheels were installed. Proteus bodies utilized aluminum coachwork over a specially constructed chassis with attention to original specifications and body design, closely matching the original cars. GT Cars worked diligently with the coachwork, adding as many period correct pieces to the car, creating a showpiece of exceptionally high standards The hand crafted aluminum body involved 600 hours of fabrication before being mated to the chassis. Period correct details were used throughout the exterior and interior, in order to capture the essence of the original C-Type racing cars and still deliver reliable street performance for enthusiast driving. When the car was completed, GT Cars debuted it at Road America during the July Vintage Racing events surprising many in attendance with the originality and superb construction of this C-Type. GT Cars showed the car at further numerous events, logging only minimal miles as it served to showcase the capabilities and services of their establishment.

Today this car presents very nicely, having been serviced in October 2017 with particular attention given to the cooling system to ensure proper operation. The car is finished in the quintessential British Racing Green, which has been enjoyed but preserved over the years, showing only mild evidence of road use in a few areas. The odometer indicates fewer than 1700 miles have accumulated during the restrained life of this car. The paint is glossy throughout and captures the fluidity of the undulating fender lines much as the original did more than half a century ago. The construction of the body panels is exceptional, with excellent fit and finish, showing only minor areas of use over time - a further testament to the Proteus build quality and allegiance to the original. The visual delight continues throughout the exterior of the car with very nice trim, lighting, properly nested side exhaust, clear headlight covers, and correctly painted wire wheels.

The interior delivers a handsome combination of racing history and purposeful features. Instruments are neatly clustered behind a beautiful wood-rimmed steering wheel adorned with the Jaguar emblem. The dial faces on the instruments (many of them rare now and hard to find) are in excellent condition with clear glass and finely detailed indications. The black seating is accurately presented, nested in the race-trimmed cockpit, revealing just a few silver painted frame tubes, inclusive of the C-Type’s preeminent racing heritage. The cockpit is both purposeful and engaging, inviting one to drive with ambition and intent, as there are little distractions to deter your focus. The aircraft inspiration, low windscreen, and racing heritage, combined with just a hint of elegant touches really bring a wonderful feel to the interior of the car.

Under the hood, the craftsmanship continues to inspire onlookers with visions of vintage Le Mans racing. The engine is prominently featured with dual carburetors, a handmade aluminum airbox, and polished cam covers gleaming against the correctly finished red twin-cam head. Hardware has been appropriately updated, allowing for improvements where modern technology enhances reliability and safety. These improvements are evident when driving this well-balanced and engineered car. The engine fires to life eagerly and settles into a smooth but slightly raspy exhaust and excellent throttle response, offering a symphony of motorsports brilliance with each tap of the throttle.

The driving experience is very satisfying, cohesive, and engaging. Even the most comfortable and familiar drivers of vintage sports cars will appreciate the balance and excitement driving in this car. Shifting is smooth and easy with positive feel and good clutch engagement. Pressing harder on the throttle there is no hesitation at highway speeds through all gears as the car pulls strong. Disc brakes deliver good grip, providing ample stopping power. The live rear axle works surprisingly well in this package, delivering good grip and confidence even in tighter corners.

A masterpiece of automotive design and racing excellence, the Jaguar C-Type is certainly a dream only a few can truly aspire to achieve. However, with a contemporary recreation of the highest order, one is afforded the opportunity to experience history and motoring excellence. This stunning C-Type is ready for your motoring enjoyment, delivering all the promise of the original design, exceptional engineering, and improved reliability without the responsibility associated with driving a museum artifact.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608