"This car can be viewed in person from 14th to 18th July 2020 at our the auction site, Windsorview Lakes, Datchet, SL3 9HY
One of the rarest Jaguars of all, the XKSS was a spin-off from the D-Type racing program. To satisfy FIA regulations, the D-Type had been built in numbers greatly exceeding the demand for such a specialised piece of racing equipment, and conversion to road trim was viewed as the best way of clearing unsold stocks, hence the XKSS. Modifications to make the D-Type acceptable for road use included installing a seat and door on the passenger side, fitting a full-width windscreen and shielding the side-exit exhaust system. A mohair hood and detachable side screens provided weather protection and, as twin fuel tanks and the spare wheel occupied the boot space, a luggage rack was provided. The 3.4 litre XK engine remained pretty much to racing specification, producing around 250bhp, which made for electrifying performance in a car weighing just 18cwt. Sadly, the loss of a number of bodyshells in the fire at Jaguar's Browns Lane works in February 1957 severely curtailed the XKSS program, with the result that only 16 had been manufactured when production ceased in November of that year. Like many other legendary sports cars, the Jaguar XKSS inspired a number of imitations, the Ram XKSS being widely acknowledged as one of the most faithful to the original design.
The vendor commissioned this example to be built by Ram in 1997 and has enjoyed the car immensely throughout his stewardship. It is registered with the DVLA as a ‘Ram Kit XKSS Replica’ although it should be noted this car was built by Ram and not a home build kit. It is thought Ram built only 10 XKSS’s. The fastidious vendor has lovingly cared for this example and as such she presents in beautiful condition. Finished in dark blue with tan leather interior, it has a rear outlet exhaust system and is fitted with SU carburettors. Prior to a trip to Classic Le Mans in 2018 the vendor had the 4.2 litre engine taken out and rebuilt, a new clutch was installed at the same time. A cigar lighter, so that Sat Nav can be used, and a tonneau cover are also recent additions. Fitted with overdrive to the gearbox for more enjoyable cruising, this Jaguar XKSS by Ram is supplied with a V5C registration document, a current MoT test certificate valid until 4th June 2021 together with a history folder. A real head turner.
The health and safety of both our customers and team remains the utmost priority, we are therefore operating to Government guidelines throughout viewing and auction day."