THE ORIGINAL FORMULA FOR FAST IS BACK

In 1951, Jaguar C-type became the first of our marque to win the hallowed 24 Hours of Le Mans. Breaking every speed and distance record in the process, and on its first attempt.

In 2021, 70 years since its breathtaking beauty and brawn burst onto the world’s racetracks, we restart production on a strictly limited run of the ultimate 1953 disc-brake specification. These new hand-built C-types will allow discerning owners to get behind the wheel for Jaguar Classic Challenge racing, track and closed-road use.

Jaguar C-Type Continuation Engine top view

UNBEATABLE ENGINE PERFORMANCE

The 3.4-litre straight-six engine takes nine months to construct and aligns to Weber carburettors that are all meticulously refurbished by a single technician to an exacting standard. The Plessey hydraulic pump on the gearbox is also in-period.

Jag C-type details of dead front Windscreen

ICONIC DESIGN ENHANCEMENTS

Famed for its progressive design and aerodynamic shape, a number of advancements contributed to C-type's unbeatable performance on the track. Iconic air-intake technology combined with a thinner gauged lightweight aluminium body are just some the unique features on this 1953 specification.

Jag C-type details of wheel and tire

ORIGINAL DISC-BRAKE TECHNOLOGY

The 1953 C-type's engineering innovations set the tone for the whole industry. This is reflected with the first use of pioneering disc brake technology, developed in partnership with Dunlop. The new braking system provided prolonged endurance required for speed and distance racing, and resistance to fade.

Jaguar C-type details of dash board and mirror

TREASURE-HUNT COMPONENTS

The original Lucas rear-view mirror has been sourced as part of a relentless pursuit of authentic components. This complements the three-quarter Brooklands race screen, original-spec Smiths clocks and gauges, including surrounding switches, that are integrated into the cockpit.

Jaguar C-type details of interior seats

ENDURING FINISHES

A choice of 12 exterior heritage colours are matched with racing seats finished in one of eight leather hues. Enhancing the Continuation story, the Rexine finish on the dashboard and side panels is upholstered using the last roll of the original material available.

Jaguar C-Type  steering wheel details dash board

TIMELESS TECHNIQUES TODAY’S TECHNOLOGY

Complementing the use of the same authentic techniques and build methods as the original, C-type Continuation is the first Jaguar Classic car to be fully reproduced using 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) for modern engineering excellence. Durability testing and FIA-approved safety systems ensure each car is track-ready.

THE STORY OF AN ICON

PIONEERING DISC-BRAKE TECHNOLOGY

Despite instant success at Le Mans with the drum brake-equipped 1951 C-type, a braking system more resistant to fade was clearly required for racing at increased speed and distance. During the winter months of 1951 and 1952, pioneering disc brake development with Dunlop began to advance.

On 29 June 1952 Stirling Moss drove C-type to victory at Reims, at an average speed of 98.18mph. This was the first time an international motor race had been won by a car fitted with disc brakes. Enhanced by Dunlop’s critical development of pads thick enough to last the entire 24 hour race, and paired with a revised lighter body, C-type was ready for Le Mans 1953.

LE MANS 1953. LIGHTER, FASTER, STRONGER

c-type continuation vintage image

THE CHEQUERED FLAG

Taking on the might of Ferrari and Alfa Romeo, the Jaguar Racing C-type established itself as a truly formidable force, claiming the Le Mans crown for the second time in first, second and fourth place.

c-type continuation vintage image

THE HISTORY MAKERS

Covering over 2,500miles at an average speed of 105.85mph, Duncan Hamilton and Tony Rolt’s race winning C-type smashed the previous 1952 record of 96.7mph. In doing so, they became the first winners to take the title with an average speed of more than 100mph.

c-type continuation vintage image

THE EXPERT DRIVERS

Behind Duncan Hamilton and Tony Rolt’s victorious car 18, Stirling Moss and Peter Walker took second place in car 17. Fourth position was secured by Peter Whitehead and Ian Stewart in car 19.

c-type continuation vintage image

THE ROYAL APPROVAL

C-type’s second Le Mans triumph turned heads in the highest of places. A telegram from Her Majesty the Queen arrived at Jaguar’s Coventry Headquarters upon the team’s return.

OWN THE LEGEND

To discuss the purchase of a strictly limited-edition C-type Continuation in more detail, contact our dedicated Jaguar Classic Team.