The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The Jaguar D-Type is a classic racing car that was produced between 1954 and 1957. It is considered to be one of the most successful sports cars of its time, having won the Le Mans 24 Hour race in 1955, 1956, and 1957. The D-Type was designed with a focus on aerodynamics and speed, making it a formidable competitor on the track.
The D-Type features a sleek and streamlined body, which was achieved using a monocoque construction method. This allowed for a lightweight yet strong chassis, which was essential for the high speeds and tight turns of the Le Mans race. The car's body was made from lightweight aluminum, with a long and pointed hood that sloped down towards the front wheels. The car's signature long tail was also designed with aerodynamics in mind, helping to reduce drag and increase top speed.
Under the hood, the D-Type was powered by a 3.4-liter inline-six engine, which produced up to 250 horsepower in some models. This engine was specifically designed for racing, with features such as a dry-sump oil system and three twin-choke Weber carburetors, which allowed for improved performance and reliability. The engine was mated to a four-speed manual transmission, which was tuned for fast, precise shifts.
The D-Type also incorporated several advanced features for its time, including disc brakes on all four wheels, which were a first for a production car. This allowed for improved stopping power and reduced brake fade, which was essential for the endurance racing of the Le Mans race. The car's suspension was also designed with racing in mind, featuring independent front suspension and a De Dion rear axle, which allowed for improved handling and stability.
Overall, the Jaguar D-Type was a technical masterpiece, combining advanced engineering with elegant design. Its success on the track cemented its place in racing history, and it remains a beloved classic car to this day.
Milestones
- 1954: Introduction of the Jaguar D-Type - 1954: First race at 24 Hours of Le Mans, driven by Peter Walker and Peter Whitehead - 1955: Unsuccessful attempt at Le Mans due to engine overheating issues - 1956: Win at 24 Hours of Le Mans with drivers Ron Flockhart and Ninian Sanderson - 1957: Win at 24 Hours of Le Mans with drivers Ron Flockhart and Ivor Bueb - 1957: End of production for Jaguar D-Type - 1958: Privateer team Ecurie Ecosse wins 24 Hours of Le Mans with a Jaguar D-Type - 2018: One of the 1956 Le Mans-winning Jaguar D-Types sold at auction for $21.78 million, setting a record for the most expensive British car ever sold at auction.Technical
- Produced from 1954-1957 - Engine: 3.4-liter inline-six - Horsepower: 250 hp - Top speed: 172 mph - Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds - Three-speed manual transmission - Disc brakes on all four wheels - Durable aluminum-alloy block and cylinder head - Aerodynamic body design for high-speed racing - Won the Le Mans 24 Hours race in 1955, 1956, and 1957 - Utilized Dunlop racing tires for improved grip - Small windscreen and minimal interior features to reduce weight and improve performance - Featured adjustable suspension for fine-tuning handling - Offered in a range of colors, including British racing green and red