1957 Jaguar XKD: A real fake

Today on Car Rave, a jaw dropping, achingly beautiful 1957 Jaguar XKD. Possibly one of coolest British cars ever.

Ok, ok, ok – not a real XKD (or D-Type). It’s a replica.

But this isn’t just some kit car assembled by a bloke in his Kilsyth backyard. This is what’s called a recreation car. You’ll find no fiberglass, coilovers or LS1 under the hood of this thing. No, instead, a recreation tries to build a car as true and faithful to the original, with the tweak to improve affordability and safety.

This particular Jaguar XKD was built by Tempero (New Zealand), a company considered perhaps the greatest XKD recreationists. The panels are all hand beaten over a timber buck, then draped over an original style monocoque frame rolling on Dunlop style knock-off wheels (made from scratch).

Differences?

Well, rather than the 3.8 Litre powerplant found in the original 1957 XKD, Tempero have opted for the iconic Jaguar 4.2 Litre donk, backed by a 4 speed with overdrive.

So yes, whilst this isn’t the real thing (those cost in excess of USD20m)- its damn near close enough. And lately, these types of cars have been climbing in value in their own right. Celebrity and car collecting god, Jay Leno, has been championing recreations for years now – even owning a replica 1927 Bugatti Type 35 and 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C.

So if you want to channel your inner Steve Mcqueen and want to save 20 million bucks, you find this example on Carsales here for a completely reasonable price of $335k.

1957 Jaguar XKD: In the owner’s own words

Brilliant and correct, an exceptional and faithful hand made aluminium bodied Jaguar XKD 1957 ‘continuation’ by Tempero NZ, arguably the finest constructor of this series in the world.

This example in British Racing Green is powered by the 4.2L 6 cylinder Jaguar engine with 3 x 45mm Weber Carburetors and 4 speed + overdrive gearbox. Brilliant handling and setup, with all the thrills and emotion of racing in 1957… but without the multi-million pound sterling price tag/insurance issues. Green leather seats and console coverings, with removable carpets if you want that extra luxury feel or outright racer. Passenger side aerodynamic body panel cover removes simply, with passenger windshield also fully removable when traveling solo. Correct Dunlop styled ‘knock-off’ wheels with spare tucked neatly away in the rear compartment. Smiths instrumentation, authentically represented in miles (not km). Hardened valve inserts allows it to run unleaded fuel and side exit exhausts. Leather bonnet straps. New brakes and clutch to ensure asbestos free, this car is fully sorted and a sensational driving experience.

This car is priced to sell at $335,000. You won’t find a car like this anywhere in Australia. Limited numbers constructed with most residing in American, European/UK collections.

Low miles with only 1630 on the dial and available at a fraction of replacement costs, let alone the 3+ year wait.

Replacement cars now virtually impossible to import into Australia.

Jaguar Tempero XKDs represent coach building craftsmanship at its finest.

This car is here, registered on Club plates and with all paperwork and documentation in order.

Same Owner for last ten years, driven sparingly, not raced but setup to be enjoyed at the best vintage racing and club events.

Registration not transferable however last RWC was undertaken and passed only a few months ago.

A compelling acquisition for the discerning collector or classic car enthusiast.

There is simply no better nor more thrilling driving experience at this level.