Fantasy Junction

Description

1966 Jaguar C-Type Replica by Proteus
s/n P1B57814BW, Engine no. 7B62415-8
British Racing Green with Green Leather 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 masterfully includes of all three. The bodywork is among the most beautiful ever fitted to any car, and was designed by Jaguar’s legendary aerodynamicist and stylist Malcom Sayer. The car was an instant success, winning Le Mans on its first outing in 1951, and again in 1953. It continued to use the sophisticated twin cam XK inline-6, and, for the first time in an automobile, disc brakes, which had been pioneered during World War II on airplanes. 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. 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 late 1980s Proteus, now recognized as the premier fabrication house creating some of the best C-Type replicas in the world, had begun refining their operation, building cars for dedicated customers. Proteus bodies utilized aluminum coachwork over a specially constructed chassis with attention to original specifications and body design, closely matching the original cars. Proteus worked diligently with the original coachwork, adding as many period correct pieces to their car, creating a showpiece of exceptionally high standards. The hand crafted aluminum body involved hundreds of 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.

Today this car presents very nicely, having been serviced regularly by the current owner and recently confirmed by Proteus to be one of the earlier cars imported to the US in the late 1980s or early 90s. The car is finished in the quintessential British Racing Green, which has retained a very nice finish, showing only mild evidence of road use in a few areas, including a small scrape on the underside rear corner, visible only when under the car. The paint is glossy throughout and captures the fluid, undulating fender lines just 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. 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 in excellent condition. Details further include the correctly finished aluminum fuel filler, black canvas tonneau cover, and intricately louvered C-Type hood and side vents.

The interior delivers a handsome combination of racing history and purposeful features. Instruments are neatly clustered behind a beautiful wood-rimmed and four-spoke Moto-Lita steering wheel. The instrument dial faces are in excellent condition with clear glass, contrasting lettering, and finely detailed indications. The green leather seats are accurately presented, nested in the race-trimmed cockpit, revealing just a few painted frame tubes, inclusive of the C-Type’s preeminent racing heritage. The cockpit is both purposeful and engaging, with raw aluminum floors and contrasting black covered center tunnel. A touch of thoughtful finishing touch is achieved with green leather covering the passenger side dash and side panels. The aircraft cockpit inspiration, low windscreen, and racing heritage, combined with just a hint of elegant refinement truly deliver a wonderful feel to the interior of this car.

Under the hood, the craftsmanship returns visions of vintage Le Mans racing. The engine is prominently featured with dual carburetors and trumpet side intakes, accented by polished cam covers gleaming against the appropriately finished red twin-cam head. Hardware has been 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, delivering a raspy exhaust note and excellent throttle response. Once warmed up, a symphony of motorsports brilliance erupts from the car 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 this car. Shifting is smooth and easy with positive feel and good clutch engagement. There is no hesitation at highway speeds, moving through all gears as the car pulls strong, tracks beautifully, entering and exiting corners with composure and command. The car has overdrive on both third and fourth gears, allowing for sustained highway cruising at relatively low engine speeds. The four-wheel disc brakes deliver ample stopping power under a responsive but firm pedal. The live rear axle works well in this package, delivering good grip and confidence.

A masterpiece of automotive design and racing excellence, the Jaguar C-Type has become a dream only a fortunate few can truly aspire to achieve. However, with an exceptional Proteus recreation, built to exacting standards and embracing modern improvements, one can 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 of driving a priceless 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