The Unconventional Evolution of the D-Type Le Mans by Michelotti

Rare ONES - The Jaguar D-Type, an iconic sports racing car produced by Jaguar Cars Ltd. from 1954 to 1957, holds a special place in automotive history. Powered by the renowned Straight-6 XK engine design, initially with a 3.4-liter capacity that was later upgraded to 3.8 liters, the D-Type achieved remarkable success, clinching victory at the prestigious 24-Hour of Le Mans race in consecutive years, from 1955 to 1957.

The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Michelotti has a body design reminiscent of the classic European GT cars that gained prominence during the 1960s.. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)

After Jaguar's factory racing team temporarily withdrew from competition, the company made a strategic decision to transform the remaining incomplete D-Types into XKSS versions. These XKSS variants were outfitted with supplementary road-friendly features, rendering them eligible for entry into production sports car races throughout the United States.

The remarkbly Jaguar D-Type LeMans Coupe by Michelotti built upon the Jaguar D-Type chassis #XKD513 racing car. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

This fascinating journey takes a twist when we delve into the story of a particular D-Type, chassis #XKD513, which originally rolled off the production line as a 1956 3.4-liter factory Jaguar D-Type. This specific car had a history at the 24-Hours of Le Mans, participating in two consecutive races. However, a tragic crash at the racing event marked a turning point for this car.

Some speculations arose, suggesting that the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe project embarked on this project to capture the attention of a major British car manufacturer. (Picture from: Autopolis)

In short, the remnants of this D-Type found a new home with coachbuilder Giovanni Michelotti in Turin, Italy. Some speculations arose, suggesting that Michelotti embarked on this project to capture the attention of a major British car manufacturer. Michelotti had previously achieved success in styling various European car models, and this venture aimed to showcase their design prowess.

While the extent of modifications to the engine and chassis of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe remains somewhat elusive, the result was undeniably impressive.. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)

Under Michelotti's vision, the D-Type underwent a transformation, receiving a 4.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine, akin to the one found in the E-Type. While the extent of modifications to the engine and chassis remains somewhat elusive, the result was undeniably impressive. The larger wheels and compact proportions hinted at a car that could rival any Jaguar in terms of speed and beauty.

The engine, transmission, and subframes, both front and rear of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti, remained faithful to the D-Type's legacy (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)

Michelotti crafted a body design reminiscent of the classic European GT cars that gained prominence during the 1960s. The elongated hood was a nod to the original Jaguar's wheelbase, while Michelotti's artistic touch drew inspiration from the lines of the Triumph Spitfire. The squared-off tapered rear end evoked hints of the Stagg.

The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show 1963, showcasing an elegant two-seater coupe body crafted from steel. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)

In 1963, this reimagined D-Type made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, showcasing an elegant two-seater coupe body crafted from steel. Remarkably, this body retained all the original D-Type's dimensions, including the wheelbase. The engine, transmission, and subframes, both front and rear, remained faithful to the D-Type's legacy.

The Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Coupe by Michelotti powered by a 4.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine, akin to the one found in the E-Type. (Picture from: FabWheelsDigest)

Jaguar, known for its commitment to preserving its design heritage, was heavily invested in Coventry's design direction. Deviating from this path was a rarity, but it raises curiosity about what a modern Jaguar from the 1960s might have looked like. Perhaps subtle adjustments like quad headlights and minor grille modifications could have seamlessly integrated it into the Jaguar design legacy.

The journey of the Jaguar D-Type Le Mans Michelotti saw it change hands multiple times, transitioning from light metallic blue to red and back again before finding its current residence in France. This car serves as a captivating glimpse into the rapidly evolving landscape of European automotive design, particularly in England, where the embrace of modern design language from Italy was a gradual process. 

Giovanni Michelotti's studio continued to create cars that embodied the contemporary sensibilities of Europe, with a remarkable portfolio that extended to over 50 models by the time of his passing in 1980. The D-Type Le Mans Michelotti remains a testament to the dynamic spirit of automotive evolution. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FABWHEELSDIGEST | AUTOPOLIS | CARANDDRIVER | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | CARROZZIERI_ITALIANI ]

Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.