RM Sotheby’s (August 4, 2023) – Chosen by Hollywood celebrities and racing drivers alike, the Jaguar brand has long represented the sporting lifestyle. In the second episode of an ongoing series illuminating the origins of exceptional automobiles, RM Sotheby’s Director of Research Michael Squire discusses the origins of a brand-defining Jaguar, the XKSS.
Already made in a limited quantity, this XKSS is one of only sixteen sports-racers to survive a fire at the Jaguar plant in February of 1957. After that, this XKSS led what could be considered a charmed life, first in California, then returning to two noteworthy collectors in the UK, Anthony Bamford and Campbell McLaren.










The Type E Series III had the privilege of launching the new Jaguar V12 engine in 1971. This superb 5.3L engine with two overhead cams, derived from a prototype for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, was powered by four carburettors. and developed 272CV DIN upon its release, it will give up to 700CV in competition versions.


David Gandy wears many hats. He wears his