The exotic cat from England

One of just two Jaguar D-types delivered in red, ‘XKD 518’ was sold to British racing driver Peter Blond, who campaigned the car at meetings across the UK. Subsequent owners included Jean Bloxham, one of the few female racing drivers in the early post-War era, and Peter Grant, the manager of Led Zeppelin. Today, the car is presented in its original colour combination and with its matching-numbers engine. Sure, it might not have the Le Mans or Stirling Moss clout of the D-type RM Sotheby’s has consigned to its Arizona sale, but this is a fabulous example with a solid history — something that can’t be said for many of these cars. It’s estimated to fetch 10–12m US dollars. 

What’s so speciale?

You might be wondering what’s so speciale about this Ferrari 275 GTB? Well, it’s the only 275 built by Pininfarina, rather than Scaglietti, for the personal use of Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina. As such, it boasts a host of unique features, such as the rally-inspired interior, complete with electric windows and Heuer stopwatches mounted in the centre console, a distinctive rear diffuser, a different grille, and a sleek new bonnet to conceal the six carburettors atop the V12. After successful appearances at a number of concours in the early 1990s, the car has remained out of the public eye — until now that is. It’ll cross the block in January in Scottsdale, where it’s expected to achieve 8–10m dollars. 

Photos courtesy of Gooding & Company © 2017