Jaguar C-Type by Proteus

Following the relative success of the Jaguar XK120s at the 1950 Le Mans 24hr race, it was realised that with minimal engine tuning, a lighter chassis and a lightweight aerodynamically revised aluminium bodyshell, the car would have a very real chance of success against its infamous opposition and thus the XK120C or C-type was born. Whilst the front suspension was very similar to that of the XK120, the rear was completely redesigned and the braking was ultimately improved via the innovative four disc brake arrangement, and the exhaust valves were enlarged. These modifications along with many more resulted in a power output of a little over 200bhp.

The C-Types were completed in time to compete in the 1951 Le Mans 24hr. At one point in the race the Jaguars held first, second and third place and it was only mechanical teething issues that prevented that from being the final result. With such an iconic marque as the Jaguar C-Type it was inevitable that companies would seek to produce recreations. The highest quality and best regarded of these recreations was offered by Proteus. The company was established in 1985 by Jim Marland in Lancashire and is still in existence today. Proteus offered bodywork in either GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) or, the more expensive, aluminium.

The Jaguar C-type by Proteus offered here at Autostorico is a recreation of an early 1950s car. The build was completed in the early 90s and is finished in British Racing Green with Green leather interior. Having covered a mere 2,897 miles this stunning example has been built to the highest possible standard around a fully bracketed tubular steel space frame, similar to the original car with floor and bulkhead panels riveted together. The GRP bodywork houses a Le Mans style fuel filler. The windscreens fitted offer a full wrap around Perspex screen with Mille Miglia cut outs and twin Brooklands “Aero” type screens behind. Powered by a fully rebuilt tuned 4.2 litre straight six engine with carburation supplied by triple Webers make for a truly exhilarating drive. Transmission is supplied by the means of a four speed gearbox with overdrive on fourth gear. Suspension is fully adjustable using Spax dampers. The braking system has been recently fully overhauled including a new brake servo and Brembo front and rear disc’s and pads. The wheels are 16” wires with knock on Jaguar race spinners with new Avon Tyres fitted. A full tonneau cover, set of period Smith instruments, Moto-lita steering wheel, battery isolator, Kenlowe fan and leather bonnet straps complete this truly authentic C-Type.

Supplied with a history file including a V5 registration document dated 1^st October 1976 making it road tax exempt, current MOT certificate until August 2020, Original Proteus order form, various invoices including recent work totalling close to £15,000 and previous MOT’s.

This car represents a fantastic opportunity to own a stunning example of a true racing legend, which will certainly appreciate over time.

Viewing strictly by appointment only.

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