2003 Proteus C-Type

• Resplendent in Ecurie Ecosse Blue
• 4.2 motivation breathed upon by VSE with a four speed gearbox and overdrive
• Build completed by Proteus themselves some twenty years ago
• Pleasantly mellowed giving that added air of authenticity
• Correctly registered stating Proteus XK120C on the V5c registration document

The Jaguar C-Type's (correctly the XK120C) 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 competition automobiles. Jaguar built only 54 C-Types and it is worth noting that the first three Grand Prix World Champions - Guiseppe Farina, Alberto Ascari and Juan-Manuel Fangio - all bought them as road cars and it's not hard to understand why as, at the time of its introduction, the C-Type represented the state-of-the-art in racing car engineering and thus was one of the most advanced road vehicles in the world.

Those multiple Le Mans wins in the 1950s, as well as numerous victories in the other great classic endurance events, coupled with the superb driving qualities that made it so attractive to three of the greatest drivers in history, have ensured a continuing healthy demand for replicas of Jaguar's rare and exotic sports-racer. An acknowledged master in this highly specialised field is Proteus Sports & Racing Cars Ltd, originally of Silchester, Berkshire, which since its foundation in 1985 has established an unrivalled reputation for quality reproductions of classic sports cars.

With the build completed some twenty years ago, this Proteus C-Type, finished in Ecurie Ecosse Blue, has developed a certain charm, looking as it should rather than having that newly-built feel. The build commenced in 1997 when the parts were supplied, however, it subsequently stalled and the project was eventually returned to Proteus themselves for the job to be completed. With 4.2-litre, XJ straight-six motivation, breathed upon by VSE, this particular ‘C-Type’ is no slouch and is an absolute delight out on the open roads. The engine sports triple SU HD8 carburettors, a lightened and balanced flywheel and polished crank matched to a four-speed gearbox with overdrive delivering the power as required to the period-correct 16’’wire wheels held in place by Jaguar spinners. The air of authenticity continues inside with a correct-style dashboard and instruments, wood-rimmed, three-spoke steering wheel and the set of spare spark plugs traditionally located on the sill. Twin fly-screens and a Le Mans-type fuel filler complete the overall and very appealing appearance. An impressive interpretation of Jaguar’s motoring past waiting to be enjoyed once again. Supplied with a detailed history file which includes the V5 registration document, a fresh MOT Certificate and various bills and invoices accumulated over the years.