Innovator

The second of just three special ‘Lightweight’ cars prepared by the factory for the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans, this Jaguar C-type was driven in period by no fewer than five Le Mans winners. It finished fourth overall at Le Mans in 1953, but was subsequently campaigned successfully by Ecurie Ecosse, racking up eight race victories in 1954. The last development of the mighty C-type, the Lightweight cars featured thinner aluminium bodywork, a fully synchronised gearbox and upgraded Weber carburettors. They were also the first cars to race at Le Mans with disc brakes, an innovation that would prove both invaluable and influential.

Further, given the Ecurie Ecosse celebration at this year’s Holyroodhouse Concours of Elegance, comprising the largest ever gathering of the famous Scottish team’s cars, ‘XKC 052’ could grant you entry to the Royal pageant in September. It will cross the block at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey Auction on 13-15 August. 

Photos: Patrick Ernzen, courtesy of RM Sotheby's.