Image of 1957 Jaguar Xkss, sourced from www.wired.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1957 Jaguar XKSS is a paragon of automotive excellence, a rare jewel that emerged from the golden era of sports cars. Originally manufactured by Jaguar Cars Ltd in Coventry, England, this vehicle stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to performance and luxury. The XKSS was born out of the legendary D-Type racing car, which dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans during the mid-1950s. After withdrawing from competitive racing, Jaguar converted the remaining D-Type units into road-going versions, thus giving birth to the XKSS. A notable moment in its history is when Hollywood icon Steve McQueen owned one, adding to its allure and desirability among car enthusiasts.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1957 Jaguar XKSS exudes a timeless elegance that is both aggressive and graceful. Its sculpted lines and elongated front hood hint at its racing pedigree, while the distinctive headlamps and curvaceous fenders capture the essence of 1950s automotive design. Inside, the cabin is an intimate space wrapped in luxurious leather and accented with polished aluminum. The quality of materials reflects Jaguar's high standards, with attention to detail that was unparalleled for its time. Technologically, it boasted innovations such as disc brakes and a sophisticated independent rear suspension system. The XKSS was available in a limited palette of colors, with British Racing Green being a popular choice that complemented its sporting image. As for body styles, there was only one: a two-seater roadster that has since become iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1957 Jaguar XKSS set a benchmark for future sports cars with its blend of racing technology and road-going comfort. It bridged the gap between track performance and daily usability like few cars before it. This model's rarity and direct lineage to the Le Mans-winning D-Type solidified its place in automotive history as a collector's dream.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its bonnet lay a 3.4-liter inline-six engine capable of producing approximately 250 horsepower, propelling the XKSS to top speeds nearing 150 mph—a remarkable feat for its time. The sprint from 0-60 mph could be achieved in just over 5 seconds. On the road, it handled with precision and poise, responding eagerly to driver inputs. The roar of its engine was pure music to any car enthusiast's ears, while the ride quality managed to strike a balance between sporty firmness and comfort.

Ownership Experience

The XKSS was not just a showpiece; some owners did indeed use it as a daily driver or for weekend racing events. However, due to its rarity and value, many examples today lead more pampered lives as show cars or private collection pieces. Maintenance can be demanding and requires specialized knowledge; reliability is typical of high-performance cars from the era—robust when well-maintained but not without quirks.

Fun Facts

A fascinating piece of trivia about the XKSS is that only 16 were ever made before a fire at Jaguar's factory in 1957 destroyed the remaining unfinished D-Types slated for conversion. Steve McQueen's ownership has been well-documented, adding celebrity glamour to its story. Although not known for setting records in speed or sales due to its limited production run, its endurance as an icon is unquestionable.

Collector's Information

The current value range for an original 1957 Jaguar XKSS can vary widely but often exceeds several million dollars due to its scarcity and historical significance. With only 16 units produced—and fewer surviving—the market availability is extremely limited. Over time, values have appreciated significantly as collectors vie for the opportunity to own this piece of automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1957 Jaguar XKSS remains an emblematic figure in classic motoring circles—a vehicle that encapsulates performance, elegance, and rarity. Its legacy endures through each preserved example that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. Owning an XKSS is not just about possessing a car; it's about stewarding a piece of history.

1957 Jaguar XKSS Upper and Lower Ball Joint Boot. 5/8" upper I.D-BN 101-AUpper and Lower Ball Joint Boot. 5/8" upper I.D., 1-1/2" bottom I.D., 7/8" high. Each

1957 Jaguar XKSS Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each-BN 2Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each

1957 Jaguar XKSS Auto Brake Pedal Pad. 3-1/4" wide X 5-1/2" long. Each-CB 75-BAuto Brake Pedal Pad. 3-1/4" wide X 5-1/2" long. Each

1957 Jaguar XKSS Spark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part-RP 1-KSpark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part. Fits on the distributor cap end. Note: looks similar to coil boot, but is physically smaller. Replaces OEM# CO 2609. Each.