Despite being a new model, the Jaguar D-Type was the favorite to win Le Mans in 1954. With Stirling Moss and Peter Wheeler at the wheel, the D-Type you see here, XKD 403, was the fastest car in practice and the race, but sadly, brake failure forced a retirement only halfway through the race. Afterwards, this car paved the way for the D-Type’s success at Le Mans and elsewhere.
When it originally raced in 1954, this car was equipped with a 2.5-liter version of Jaguar’s legendary straight-six, but was upgraded with a 3.4-liter unit for 1955. XKD #403 was actually driven extensively by Jaguar test driver Norman Dewis in preparation for the 1955 season, which Jaguar dominated.
This car continued to be raced throughout the 1950s, with victories at Goodwood and Oulton Park and numerous podium finishes elsewhere to its credit. After a 1956 crash at Goodwood, the car was rebuilt by the factory, and a new engine was fitted in 1958. And interestingly, this car was listed for sale in this very publication back in 1962.
Next month, XKD 403 car is headed to auction in Arizona, where it’s expected to fetch between $12 and $15 million. It might not be a Le Mans-winner, but it’s still about as special as D-Types get.
roud2supercars 