Lot 422: Jaguar C-Type Replica

The XK120C’s astonishing debut victory in the 1951 Le Mans 24-Hour Race and its follow-up win in ’53 established Jaguar’s first purpose-built racing sports car as one of the all-time great sporting automobiles and paved the way for the even more successful D-Type. These multiple Le Mans wins in the 1950s, as well as numerous victories in the other great classic endurance events, have ensured a continuing healthy demand for replicas of Jaguar’s rare and exotic works sports-racers.
Acknowledged master in this highly specialised field is Brian Wingfield, who constructed this exacting replica some 20 years ago for its original owner. It is one of four C-Types constructed by Wingfield, the other three being built for Henry Taylor, Merrick Taylor and Anthony Bamford. ‘DFL 766’ is a virtually 100% accurate copy in terms of chassis specification, engine and rear suspension (A-frame type) with the exception of E-Type front suspension wishbones and steering rack. Built by Bill Wilkinson (owner of Safety Devices) its multi-tubular spaceframe chassis is clothed in aluminium alloy coachwork by Classic Autos of Kings Langley (Aubrey Finburgh) modelled from that of Paul Grist’s works example to a degree of accuracy such that it will fit straight on to any factory car. The 3.4-litre engine is XK140SE to C-Type specification but fitted with a straight-port cylinder head, triple Weber 45DCO carburettors and D-Type camshafts. The interior of the car is detailed down to the period C-Type instrumentation, handbrake, etc, with windscreen copied from Brian Causer’s genuine C-Type. Modifications include a non-standard (more reliable) fuel pump, Kenlowe electric fan and larger XK150 radiator for improved cooling. A specially constructed Safety Devices removable roll cage is included with the car.
The car has been actively campaigned throughout its life taking part in AMOC events, various 1950s sports car series, classic rallies, Brighton Speed Trials and Valance hill climb where it won its class. Some 14,500-or-so miles have been covered since construction. Without question one of the most accurate C-Type replicas around, ‘DFL 766’ is directly comparable with the superb Peter Jaye cars and the four Lynx C-Types built, and also has correct C-Type live axle rear suspension. (The vendor advises us that the car would require relatively inexpensive adaptation to be eligible for FIA papers).