Rare 1957 Jaguar XKSS Estimated to Fetch $14.5M USD at Auction
Get ready for a roar from the past as a 1957 Jaguar XKSS, one of only nine surviving examples of this iconic sports car, is poised to hit the auction block. This exceptional piece of automotive history is estimated to fetch a staggering $14.5 million USD at Bonhams’ Quail Lodge Auction in Carmel, California, on August 18, 2023.
The XKSS, born from the legendary D-type racing car, is a legend in its own right. With its sleek lines, powerful engine, and limited production run, the XKSS became the ultimate symbol of postwar automotive prowess. But the story of this particular car goes deeper, entwined with tragedy and resilience.
The original XKSS was designed as a road-going version of the victorious D-type, conceived by Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons to offer the thrills of racing on public roads. Jaguar built just 25 examples, aiming to capitalize on the D-type’s racing triumphs and the growing popularity of sports cars. But fate intervened, a devastating fire swept through the Jaguar factory in Coventry, England, in February 1957, destroying nine of the unfinished XKSS models. The blaze halted the production run, forever leaving a void in the model’s history.
Now, almost 70 years later, one of the remaining nine XKSS cars is about to create a new chapter in its remarkable journey. This particular example, known as chassis number 600008, boasts a unique pedigree. Originally destined for American importer, Charles Hornburg, it was initially scheduled to be the second of the five U.S.-bound cars. After surviving the factory fire, it eventually found its way to renowned collector and former Aston Martin CEO, David Brown. In 2009, the car was acquired by its present owner, who undertook a meticulous restoration, ensuring it was a true testament to the XKSS’s glorious past.
Bonhams anticipates significant interest in this historic car. As the ultimate embodiment of a bygone era, it holds not just a place in automotive history, but also a place in the hearts of collectors who appreciate the brilliance and rarity of the Jaguar XKSS. Its auction at Quail Lodge promises to be a captivating event, where the allure of this legend will resonate for generations to come.
The 1957 Jaguar XKSS is a potent reminder of the passion, innovation, and sheer beauty that defined the golden age of sports cars. Its story underscores the enduring legacy of Jaguar’s craftsmanship and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the brand. At the Quail Lodge Auction, its legacy will continue to unfold, a timeless story etched into the very fabric of automotive history.
With the anticipated hammer price of $14.5 million, this historic XKSS promises to be a record-breaking auction event. This auction isn’t simply about acquiring a classic car, it’s a chance to own a tangible piece of history, a car that represents the golden age of automotive innovation, the unyielding spirit of racing, and the enduring allure of the Jaguar marque. The echoes of its legendary past will resound as this remarkable piece of automotive history finds a new home in a collector’s garage, a symbol of passion, power, and an unwavering love for automotive excellence. The upcoming auction presents a chance for enthusiasts to witness the enduring allure of this timeless automotive icon.
