Presented by Barrett-Jackson – This 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible comes from country star Allen Jackson’s collection. Powered by a matching-numbers 327ci V8 engine mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The Corvette received a comprehensive restoration approximately 12 years ago and is a real eye-catcher with a white exterior and red interior. Comes with both tops, AM/FM stereo, and dual side-pipe exhaust.
GATES ARE NOW OPEN FOR BARRETT-JACKSON’S INAUGURAL HOUSTON NOW THROUGH SUNDAY WITH HUNDREDS OF CARS SELLING WITH NO RESERVE! TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE GATES AND IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER TO BID IN PERSON, ONLINE OR VIA PHONE. VISIT BARRETT-JACKSON.COM FOR INFO.
Presented by Barrett-Jackson – The hero car from Paul Brickman’s 1983 film ‘Risky Business’. Multiple 928s were used during the production of the film, but this car was the featured vehicle, and received the brunt of screen time and seat time from the cast. It is one of three cars driven on set, and one of two cars used during the film’s signature chase scene that culminated in Tom Cruise, looking straight into the camera, declaring the German carmaker’s slogan, Porsche. There is no substitute.
This 928 has resided in a climate-controlled environment in a private collection, where it has been meticulously cared for. Originally painted white, the 928 was refinished in gold for the movie. Following the film’s production, the car returned to California, where it was discovered and returned to its original screen appearance. This 928 has been featured at numerous museums and displays. This car was a centerpiece at Porsche Cars North America for a year and was part of the Petersen Automotive Museums influential Porsche Effect Exhibit.
While at the Petersen, Chad McQueen – son of legendary racer and actor Steve McQueen – sat in this car. The 928 also features signatures from several members of the film’s cast – including Bronson Pinchot (Barry), Joe Pantoliano (Guido), Curtis Armstrong (Miles), and Francine Locke (Shower Girl) – and comes with several images of the car on set covered in camera rigging equipment.
Additionally, this 928 was the subject of the documentary, The Quest for the RB928 (Risky Business 928), in which filmmaker Lewis Johnsen chronicles his journey to track down this particular 928. It was in this documentary that Risky Business producer Jon Avnet stated that he taught Tom Cruise how to drive a stick shift in this very car. The 928 is powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine and backed by a 5-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. This example wears 16-inch offset 5-hole aluminum alloy wheels and features a cork-on-cork leather interior. Extensive documentation accompanies the car.
Hundreds of cars are set to cross the block with No Reserve at Barrett-Jackson’s Inaugural Houston Auction, September 16-18 at NRG Center. Check out the docket and become a bidder today!
Presented by Bugatti – Coming off of a record-breaking first half of 2021 in North America, Bugatti has premiered a new addition to its already impressive lineup: the Chiron Super Sport – a fully configurable version of the record-breaking Chiron Super Sport 300+, the first – and still only – production car to break the 300 mph speed barrier which was exclusively offered in Black Carbon and Jet Orange. The long-tail Chiron Super Sport brings a unique combination of top speed, luxury, and comfort to the Chiron family. In contrast to the Chiron Pur Sport, which was designed for agility and cornering, the Super Sport represents Bugatti in its quintessential form: ultimate speed and luxury.
Following a longstanding tradition of combining top speed performance with luxury beginning with the Type 55 Super Sport in the 1930s, then continuing with the EB110 Super Sport in the 90s and the Veyron Super Sport of the 2010s, the Chiron Super Sport is a natural addition to the elegant, comfortable, and high-performing model range Bugatti is renowned for. It adds another extreme to the spectrum of performance offered by the Chiron lineup: longitudinal dynamics, as a counterpart to the Chiron Pur Sport’s focus on lateral agility. The Super Sport starts at $3,825,000 and is limited within the 500 unit production run of the Chiron family.
At Bugatti, “form follows performance.” This mantra guides the development of each Chiron model, and is especially evident in the Chiron Super Sport. Its long-tail body, aerodynamics-influenced design, and low-slung front end are uncompromisingly designed for peak performance. The exterior design alone makes it unique from the other Chiron models. Every aspect of the vehicle is designed to accommodate for its exceptional longitudinal performance. The newly designed front splitter and rear diffuser and the overall streamlined body of the Chiron Super Sport generate a massive amount of downforce to counteract and balance the forces created at speeds of 273 mph.
The iconic 8.0-liter W16 engine present in all Chiron models receives an overhauled engine for the Chiron Super Sport, delivering 1,600 hp and a top speed of 273 mph (electronically limited). In order to achieve these numbers, the turbochargers, oil pump, valve train, gearbox, and clutch were modified significantly. These changes make it possible for the Chiron Super Sport to now rev up to 7,100 rpm – an increase of 300 rpm. Michael Kodra, Head of Drive Development at Bugatti, says this increase provides for “even greater longitudinal acceleration and an even more emotive driving experience.”
Larger turbochargers and highly efficient compressor wheels cause the seven-gear dual-clutch transmission to shift from sixth to seventh gear at 250 mph, even when at full load. The seventh gear’s ratio is 3.6% longer, avoiding any “interruption in traction when changing gears at 7,100 rpm,” explains Marco Schulte, an engine application developer at Bugatti.
Acceleration in the Super Sport is seamless even at full throttle, offering a comfortable and balanced drive at top speeds. Its acceleration is impressive – even for a Bugatti. It accelerates from 0 to 124 mph in 5.8 seconds, and 0 to 186 mph in 12.1 seconds – 12% quicker than a Chiron. At even higher speeds, the Super Sport is still faster than the rest; it accelerates from 0 to 249 mph in 28.6 seconds, 4 seconds faster than the Chiron.
The Chiron Super Sport’s high speed capabilities and new aerodynamics require a specially designed chassis. At higher speeds, the vehicle has been stabilized by stiffer springs, producing increased chassis control and dynamic stability. With a more direct connection to the vehicle’s steering and dampers, the driving feel has been improved as well, resulting in a more communicative and engaging driving experience.
The unwavering directional stability makes the Chiron Super Sport uniquely confidence-inspiring at extraordinary speeds. “Even on long bends taken at high speeds, the rear remains calm and neutral, resulting in a very composed drive in the Chiron Super Sport. Our focus at top speed is on absolute driving stability coupled with comfort,” explains Jachin Schwalbe, Head of Chassis Development at Bugatti.
To pair with the newly designed Super Sport chassis, Bugatti and Michelin developed new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are optimized for top speed, in contrast to the Pur Sport’s agility focused Michelin Sport Cup 2R tires.
The tires offer improved rigidity and smoothness, which, combined with reinforced belts, makes it possible for them to perform consistently at top speed for extended periods of time.
The design process of the tires included testing on the test bench originally built for the Space Shuttle, while post production sees each tire individually x-rayed to identify even the most minuscule of flaws.
The tires are mounted on an exclusive five-spoke aluminum wheel, available only on the Chiron Super Sport. Customers can also choose painted or diamond cut wheels, or opt for the Chiron Pur Sport’s iconic magnesium wheel to reduce the weight of the unsprung mass.
For aerodynamic performance, the long tail helps keep the laminar flow attached to the body for as long as possible. Bugatti designers extended it by nearly 10 inches, and enlarged the diffuser cross-section, thereby reducing the rear’s trailing surface by 44%. These changes result in significantly reduced slipstream and wind resistance – factors which would otherwise decelerate the vehicle.
To increase the rear diffuser’s effect, the unique exhaust pipes were aligned vertically to each side. “If we can generate downforce with the diffuser, there is no need for us to generate it with the drag inducing wings. This means we can retract the wing as far as possible in Top Speed mode for a drive with minimal drag,” elaborates Frank Heyl.
Design modifications made to the front splitter, such as the air curtains alongside the air intakes, improve the airflow over the side radiators and complement the rear shape in minimizing drag.
As a longstanding part of the Bugatti family, the Super Sport moniker provided obvious inspiration for the design team.
To complement the long tail of the Chiron Super Sport, a new, optional horizontal color split was designed for the Super Sport, directly inspired by the split seen on the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport.
This split creates the illusion of a longer tail and a lower body, providing a visually striking aesthetic.
The Chiron Super Sport’s nine air extractors on each fender are a nod to the EB 110 Super Sport – while also releasing air pressure from the front wheel wells and generating streamlined downforce at the front axle.
And, much like the Type 55 Super Sport, the Chiron Super Sport combines impressive technology and speed with comfort and sophistication.
Designed to be the ultimate grand tourer, the interior of the Chiron Super Sport provides exceptional comfort, elegance, and luxury. With timeless elements like leather and polished aluminum, combined with modern carbon fiber, the interior is perfectly suited to an effortless and safe driving experience, even at high speeds.
From the exterior to the interior, every inch of the Chiron Super Sport has been meticulously designed and optimized for aerodynamic performance and top speed, without sacrificing the comfort and luxury Bugatti excels at.
The Chiron Super Sport joins the Chiron family, adding top speed to an existing lineup already offering luxury and performance at all levels. Consisting of the Chiron, Chiron Sport, Chiron Pur Sport, and now Chiron Super Sport, the lineup is limited to 500 production slots worldwide – of which there are now less than 50 left.
Three dimensions of performance are available, offering customers the option to choose the car which best suits their driving personality.
The Chiron and Chiron Sport offer the ultimate combination of performance, luxury, and comfort. The Chiron Pur Sport provides an incomparably agile and dynamic driving experience and is meant for the driver who appreciates challenging roads with tight turns, corners, and curves. Speed and comfort are delivered by the Chiron Super Sport, the fastest member of the Chiron family with a top speed of 273 mph. Whatever your desire, there’s a Bugatti model to fit.
Presented by RM Sotheby’s – Among the compelling class supercars that emerged following the turn of the millennium, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is uniquely intriguing. Its basis was the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, which debuted in 2003; developed jointly by Mercedes-Benz and its then-Formula 1 partner McLaren, the car clearly drew from the former manufacturer’s contemporary design language and world-class engineering, yet it was assembled at the latter’s facility in Woking, England.
This car was a true exotic, with massive power and a 200-plus mph top speed—and, yes, eye-catching “butterfly” doors. Unlike ostensible competitors such as the Porsche Carrera GT, however, the SLR McLaren featured a front-mid-engine chassis configuration and boasted everyday usability more typical of a traditional grand tourer. Notably, it was also McLaren’s first foray into roadgoing automobiles after the legendary McLaren F1’s production run concluded.
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The 722 Edition, launched as a coupe in 2006 and a Roadster in 2009, took the already impressive model to the next level: Its supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, was reworked to produce 641 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque. Zero-to-62 mph acceleration took just 3.1 seconds, and top speed was a screaming 208 mph. Further enhancements included a lower, stiffer suspension and lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels. New bucket seats and a steering wheel, both upholstered in semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, were found in the cabin.
The model’s name and subtle “722” badging was highly significant, referencing the starting number of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Stirling Moss and co-driver Denis Jenkinson piloted to victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia. What could be a more fitting tribute to this legendary moment in motorsport history, in which British drivers achieved triumph in a German racing machine, than a limited-edition German-British supercar?
With just 150 SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster examples produced, the model was destined from the start to be exclusive. This Canada-delivery example, finished in Crystal Laurite Silver over black interior accented by red seat belts and stitching, was desirably equipped with the larger braking system; red calipers are visible behind its 19-inch black wheels.
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This particular car is further distinguished by its excellent state of preservation and history of use, having been driven fewer than 15,200 km (~9,450 mi) at time of cataloguing. Invoices on file indicate a service and the fitment of two new rear tires performed in May 2016 by Crown Eurocars of St. Petersburg, Florida. An inspection and oil change were performed by Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota, Florida, March 2020.
Now offered from the Fox Collection, this 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Roadster is a nod to Mercedes-Benz’s illustrious racing past, and a celebration of its Formula 1 partnership with McLaren. Blending the best attributes of two of the world’s top-tier automakers—each with a rich history of motorsports success—like no other car before or since, it offers its next owner a truly distinctive combination or rarity, luxury, and ultimate performance.
With minimal production runs and maximized performance, the Fox Collection is filled with supercar selections that truly stand out from their contemporaries, with a combination of uncommon specifications, low mileages, and outstanding color combinations. The Fox Collection will be offered entirely without reserve at RM Sotheby’s Monterey sale, taking place 12-14 August 2021.
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A luxurious lifestyle is complete with large homes on premium landscape, high-end supercars, exotic race cars, and state-of-the-art garage toys. In this special, we pair a lavish home listing with the toys needed to fill the garage. This week, we find ourselves on a mountainside residential property in Aspen, Colorado that is surrounded with 40-acres of protected mountain views and access to keep a supercar filled garage. Click any of the links below to view the local dealership inventory we’d suggest outfitting this home with, as well as the real estate listing.
duPont REGISTRY Homes
Address: 102 Wood Duck Lane, Aspen, Colorado 81611, United States
Presented by RM Sotheby’s – The expansive vision of Paul Andrews Collection also included select historic street rods and customs, which he admired for their imaginative design, fascinating engineering and, of course, performance. One of the most noteworthy is this significant 1948 Cadillac, known as “Eldorod,” which was the first automobile drawn for Boyd Coddington by Chip Foose and, significantly, Boyd’s personal car.
Beginning as a stock 1948 Cadillac, the car was moved to a custom-fabricated steel chassis with C4 Corvette independent suspension, carrying a Chevrolet 502-cubic-inch V-8 and TH400 automatic transmission. The body had its rear quarter panels welded to the body, the tailfins and wheel moldings completely reshaped, and the body moldings hand-made from scratch. New bumpers, grille, windshield, and aluminum top were also custom-made for the project, as was the billet air cleaner under the hood; 18-inch billet wheels finished off the exterior. The interior was dressed with custom gauges and a Boyd’s custom leather-wrapped billet steering wheel. In this form, “Eldorod” was the last car out of Hot Rods by Boyd before its parent company’s 1997 bankruptcy.
Its designer, Chip Foose, would later restyle the car in his own shop. A 1956 Chevrolet front bumper and 1954 Pontiac grille, reworked with 1957 Nomad bumper guards, were fitted to the snout, while the hood itself was sectioned and lengthened to fit the curve of a custom windshield and A-pillars. The peaks of the front fenders were extended into the doors and frenched in, with 1952 Ford headlight extensions and hand-made chrome bezels. The tops of the doors and the rear quarter panels were sectioned and blended into the sectioned rear decklid, flanked by reshaped taillights with custom lenses. Wheel openings were also reshaped. Much of the body hardware was hand-formed of brass that was carefully fitted and then chrome-plated.
Foose Design’s Freddy and Jed Valdez painted “Eldorod” in glistening Huntington Blue, slightly toned darker by adding black, as per Foose’s original vision for the car; beautiful enamel pinstriping was laid on by Dennis Ricklefs. A removable hardtop was hand-shaped by the revered Marcel’s Custom Metal and covered in Haartz cloth. The side and rear glass were cut by Eddie Kotto. Inside, the original gauges were reworked by Redline Gauge Works, while the seating area was updated with leather upholstery and German square-weave carpeting.
Underneath, “Eldorod” retained, and still does today, much of its Boyd-fitted drivetrain, with the engine fed by a 1,375-cfm FAST EZ-EFI kit, cooled by a Mattson’s aluminum radiator, and exhaling through stainless steel MagnaFlow pipes and mufflers. Custom one-off Foose wheels were machined by Mike Curtis design and shod in Pirelli P Zero tires.
Subsequently, part of the noted collection of Wayne Davis prior to its acquisition by Paul Andrews, “Eldorod” has been featured in an online article from Hot Rod magazine, and justifiably so. It was envisioned by two of the most legendary names in the business. Boyd Coddington provided the impetus, funding, and shop to bring it to life the first time; Chip Foose drew it, and later had the opportunity to recreate it exactly as he had originally envisioned it. Both men’s stamp is clearly present on the end result, a superb piece from the hands of two masters.
RM Sotheby’s is thrilled to announce the expansion of its Monterey auction this year with a third auction night dedicated to the incomparable Paul Andrews Estate Collection. Offered almost entirely without reserve, the impressive collection will kick-off RM’s flagship auction weekend on Thursday, 12 August.
The Gran Coupe line-up from BMW allows for a luxury driving experience for all to enjoy with the added seating room. The German automotive manufacturer has added performance into the mix with the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe. The four-door performance monster packs a twin-turbo 8-cylinder, while still functioning as a daily driver. It’s the same way of thinking that goes into fashion, meaning a well-rounded wardrobe preps anyone for any occasion. This week’s GearBox focuses on the top luxury apparel and accessories to pair with the new 2021 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe. Shop all of the products featured in this special by clicking the links below.
2021 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe
BMW Group
The 2022 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe features a breathtaking 617 horsepower M TwinPower Turbo engine and the highly emotive M Sport Exhaust System.
Price: MSRP $130,000
Ulysse Nardin Executive Skeleton X
Watches of Switzerland
Instantly recognizable, the Executive collection from Ulysse Nardin showcases bold designs with contemporary charm and easy-to-use functionality. The daring silhouette of this watch puts the intricate and delicate mechanism of the Executive collection on display. Tradition and modern simplicity become one with the combination of roman numeral and baton watch markers.
Price: $19,500
BMW M Motorsport Street Woven Jacket
PUMA
The tradition of speed continues with the next chapter of BMW M Motorsport and PUMA. The BMW M Motorsport Street collection is rooted in racing heritage, with design elements and graphics that pay tribute to classic BMW racecars. This jacket combines high-octane performance with street-ready style. Equipped with PUMA tech for protection against the elements and heritage graphics throughout, this jacket is for the true racing fan.
Price: $140
Kith x BMW Side Dimensions Tee Black
StockX
The product of a cool collaboration, this graphic tee celebrates J Balvin’s ‘Colores’ album with an updated version of Takashi Murakami’s iconic smiling flower.
Price: Inquire for Price
Naked & Famous Super Guy Whisper Stretch Jeans
Nordstrom
Naked & Famous Denim is devoted to making awesome jeans, shirts, jackets and more, all proudly cut and sewn in Canada. The brand’s designers travel to Japan multiple times a year to find new fabrics, working exclusively with Japanese mills to develop crazy things like glow-in-the-dark denim, cashmere blends, raspberry scratch-n-sniff, reflective denim, rainbow-fade denim and other rare, unique textiles.
Price: $142
BMW M Motorsport Future Rider Sneakers
PUMA
Get ready to ride into the future of F1 streetstyle. The iconic PUMA Rider from the ’80s is revamped with fresh materials and sleek branding additions courtesy of racing legends BMW M Motorsport.
Price: $90
Persol 649-Original
Persol
Originally designed in 1957 for Turin tram-drivers, 649 soon rose from its functional beginnings. Then became a legend when Marcello Mastroianni wore it in the classic Divorce, Italian Style.
Price: $261
BMW M Motorsport Baseball Cap
PUMA
Sport a style that’s as classic as your favorite team in the sleek, racing-ready style of our BMW M Motorsport Baseball Cap.
Price: $30
TUMI Alpha Bravo Nathan Black Expandable Backpack
TUMI
Sturdy ballistic nylon and an expandable design make this TUMI Alpha Bravo Nathan Black Expandable backpack a rugged yet refined essential for any occasion.
Price: $425
Montblanc M_Gram 4810 Pocket Holder 6cc
Montblanc
Montblanc introduces a new M pattern inspired by the Maison’s heritage, taken from its archive. This pocket accessory is a compact and contemporary functional alternative to wallets.
Price: $160
Beats by Dr. Dre – Beats Studio Buds
Best Buy
True wireless noise cancelling Beats Studio Bud are made for music. Designed with a custom acoustic platform, Beats Studio Bud are engineered to deliver powerful, balanced sound in a compact, in-ear form factor. The result — immersive sound that pulls the emotion of music from the studio to your ears to keep you inspired. These earphones feature two listening modes, Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode, to give you total control of your sound. Each earbud has up to 8 hours of listening time⁴ with two additional charges provided by its pocket-sized charging case to give you up to 24 hours of combined playback.⁵ Beats Studio Bud also offer simple one-touch pairing for Apple¹ and Android² devices.
Presented by RM Sotheby’s – Images by Theodore W. Piper – The Lexus LFA came about as the pet project of Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda, who, after years of producing relatively anodyne road cars, wanted to build a supercar to challenge those being offered by the likes of Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini. The project’s development phase became excruciatingly lengthy, but when it was finally unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, it was immediately clear that the marque had produced something truly remarkable.
The highlight was the 4.8-liter V-10 engine, co-developed with Yamaha and built in the same facility as Toyota Racing’s F1 V-10s. The block is a space-age blend of aluminum, magnesium, and titanium alloy, which made it smaller than an equivalent V-8 and lighter than an equivalent V-6. The supremely advanced internals permitted for razor-sharp throttle response, allowing the V-10 to rev from idle to 9,000 rpm in just six-tenths of a second. The LFA’s instrument cluster is all-digital, solely because no analog tachometer could keep pace with the engine’s ability to gain and lose revolutions. This miraculous powerplant is mated to a lightning-quick six-speed automated sequential manual transmission. The LFA’s unique exhaust note is unrivaled among modern supercars, and is undoubtedly worth the price of admission.
With its radical styling and howling V-10 engine, the LFA exudes automotive awe. One of its great achievements lies in its construction. The LFA has a curb weight of just over 3,200 pounds with a near-perfect weight distribution of 48:52 thanks to the liberal use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, aluminum, magnesium, and titanium alloys.
This particular LFA is one of just 11 examples clad in this distinctive shade of Steel Gray; the interior is clothed in a bespoke red-and-black arrangement of leather and Alcantara which is highlighted throughout with a generous appointment of gloss carbon fiber and anodized metal accents. A serial plate mounted between the seats shows that this LFA is the 430th example of 500 produced (a figure that includes 50 Nürburgring Package cars), and one of approximately 190 chassis delivered new to the US between 2010 and 2012.
Delivered new via Larry H. Miller Lexus of Murray, Utah, it has since traveled fewer than 500 miles, and remains in a remarkably presentable state befitting its stunning visage and extremely low indicated mileage. This attractive LFA is offered for sale accompanied by its window sticker, manuals, sales literature, tire gauge, and flashlight. An opportunity to acquire a LFA is a rare occurrence, and this particularly low-mileage example is worthy of serious consideration.
This vehicle will be offered at RM Sotheby’s Amelia Island auction, taking place 22 May during the world-renowned Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. In-person and remote bidding options are available; contact RM Sotheby’s to register to bid.
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Presented by Combat Motors – Combat Motors has announced its all-new Flagship model; the all-new 2021 Combat Wraith. Like the original Wraith which debuted in 2008, pushing the limits of American motorcycle manufacturing technology was the only place to start for such an example of raw art-in-motion. Inspired by the purist’s desire to not only stand out but to be liberated to forge one’s own path in a world full of followers.
This second-generation Combat Wraith rides on the tried & true CX4 architecture with a brute force, 2.2 Liter big-block V-twin engine by S&S Cycle. The engine is an integral part of the bike’s construction acting as a stressed member, unifying and transferring as much unadulterated power to the ground as possible through the BST carbon fiber wheels to the Pirelli tread.
The iconically shaped structural fuel tank is CNC 5-Axis machined from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum. Utilizing this style of machining allowed Combat to increase the bike’s fuel capacity to 4.5 gallons and provide the longest ride possible between refueling.
Combat Motors has reinstated the monocoque structure that was originally developed for the company’s P-51 Combat Fighter while increasing airflow and efficiency through the redesigned structural air-box. Visibility of the twin-plate throttle-body is still made possible through a restyled oval glass just ahead of the fuel cap making it a crowning detail to the reimagined design of the original Wraith. This, along with the widely recognized visible cam timing cover and fuel tank windows, gives the owner and any fortunate spectator a full view of as many of the internal workings of this motorcycle.
Combat Motors, continuing in the spirit of its former nomenclature, offers yet another industry first to the market. The new Combat Wraith will be built with interlinked forward and rear foot controls, offering its pilot the best of both worlds for quick trips across town or long rides up the coast.
Each new motorcycle produced by the company will also soon be constructed in the Birmingham, Alabama facility via live, high-definition streaming video. Once the primary components are staged and ready, each client will have the opportunity to watch the step-by-step process of their own creation being constructed. One motorcycle at a time, Combat’s experienced master builder, Jason Reddick, will hand-assemble each motorcycle in full view of its future owner. A time-lapse video showcasing the birth of the new motorcycle will then become part of the delivery package, giving each new owner an unparalleled ownership experience.
The girder front suspension bears a nod to the past as well, as the LED light blade carbon housing resembles the arched signature appearance of the original Wraith. Adding function to this iconic form, solid carbon fiber panels guide air directly into the triangular air intake portals. Thoughtful integration and styling elevate the original 5-axis CNC machined aircraft grade 6061 aluminum girders from the P-51 Combat Fighter to the Wraith’s elegant carbon fiber detailing.
No more than twenty-one Wraiths will be built in either raw machined aluminum or as a Knight Wraith with a black anodized finish.
The first new Knight Wraith is currently being built for Ernest Lee, owner of Combat Motors, who plans to ride the new motorcycle on a cross-country trip following Interstate 10 from Jacksonville, Florida to Malibu, California. Current owners of the company’s motorcycles are invited to ride either the entire length of the trip or individual legs with Ernest as he brings the next generation Combat Wraith west for its official debut later this year.
Following World War II, Jaguar Cars wholeheartedly adopted a time-tested automotive sales strategy: Use feats of speed and competition success to market its civilian sports cars and luxury saloons. First came headline-grabbing speed trials in the XK 120, followed by the model’s success in circuit racing. The XK 120 was then developed into the swoopy C-Type racer; the C-Type’s wins at the 1951 and 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans demonstrated that Jaguar’s investment in motorsport was a very wise one indeed.
Yet if the C-Type represented an evolution of the XK 120, the machine that would follow—the Jaguar D-Type—was a radical leap into the future of performance. With its round haunches and small, oval grille, the D-Type presented a friendly face to the world; behind it, however, lurked a fierce competition car packed with advanced technology.
Unlike its rather conventional predecessor, the D-Type made use of a strikingly modern chassis configuration centered around a strong, lightweight monocoque body tub that enveloped the cockpit. An XK-type dual-overhead camshaft inline-six engine was cradled in a subframe assembly attached to the front of this monocoque; the car’s solid rear axle and rear suspension assembly were correspondingly fitted to the rear bulkhead. While materials and technology have evolved dramatically in subsequent decades, this basic design concept is used on race cars and exotics to this day.
Further forward-looking elements included four-wheel disc brakes supplied by Dunlop, first deployed on the C-Type, and a compact, slippery body that minimized frontal area to reduce aerodynamic drag—an effort aided by the XK engine’s dry-sump configuration and slightly canted orientation, which afforded a lower hood height. Finally, an asymmetric vertical fin positioned behind the driver’s headrest, developed to add stability on circuits with long, high-speed sections (and later added to many initially finless cars, this chassis among them) lent the D-Type an unmistakable profile.
Introduced in April 1954, the D-Type soon earned success in competition: After victory at the 1954 Sebring 12 Hours and strong second-place finish at 1954 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Jaguar works team achieved a first at Circuit de la Sarthe in 1955; Ecurie Ecosse notched a privateer win there the following year. Racing technology evolves quickly, however, and faced with slowing sales, Jaguar decided to use the D-Type chassis it had on hand to build the very similar (though finless) XKSS road car.
D-Type and XKSS production suffered a crippling blow on 12 February 1957, when a fire tore through Jaguar’s Coventry works. Five D-Types were destroyed in the blaze, as well as important tooling and materials. Final D-Type production numbers tallied 17 works race cars (including 11 “long-nose” variants), plus 54 “short-nose” D-Types intended for customers; of that latter group, five were lost in the fire and four were dismantled for parts. A further two of these production D-Types were later converted to XKSS models.
Yet despite the Coventry catastrophe, D-Type’s story was far from over. Notably, five privateer D-Types were entered in the 1957 running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. They ultimately took the top four places, in addition to sixth place, with the Ecurie Ecosse D-Types famously reprising their 1956 first-place finish and achieving second place to boot. The sleek Jaguar’s place in motorsport history had been secured.
CHASSIS NUMBER XKD 518
Dispatched 29 December 1955 and delivered new to Henlys of Manchester, England, XKD 518’s appearance immediately distinguished it from the already rarified D-Type set. Painted Red with an interior trimmed to match, it was one of a very small number of D-Types (perhaps as few as two or three examples) to be so finished when new. One historian suggests, somewhat humorously, that this unexpected livery was selected by Jaguar in hopes of breaking into the Italian privateer racing market.
Whatever the motivation may have been, the car remained in England, and racer Peter Blond became its first private owner—having purchased the car for £3,500 from a certain Bernie Ecclestone, who had taken the car on after Henlys failed to find a buyer. Blond soon put it to good use in club racing, achieving second and first place finishes at Snetterton in June 1956, along with another first at Snetterton in September. Other appearances in busy 1956 and 1957 seasons included Aintree, Silverstone, Oulton Park, and Goodwood, where Blond competed in the Goodwood Trophy race and finished ninth.
Blond sold the car to Jonathan Sieff in August 1957; Sieff continued to race the car with Blond, with a best recorded finish of second at Full Sutton in July 1958. Following the 1959 racing season Sieff sold to the car to Monty Mostyn of Speedwell Garage, and after a brief period in the hands of John Houghton, it was acquired by racer Jean Bloxham. Bloxham brought the car to Goodwood in March and April of 1961 and raced the car at Silverstone in May, finishing third in one of her outings.
XKD 518 returned to John Houghton in around 1962, and around 1967 it was sold on to John Coombs and Richard Wilkins. Under the care of its next owner, Clive Lacey, it attended the first International E-type Day at Donington Park in 1974. Following Lacey, this D-Type was purchased by Led Zeppelin manager Peter Grant.
The car crossed the Atlantic in 1982 after its purchase by American collector George Stauffer, who retained the D-Type until 1996. From Stauffer it passed to Chris Cox, then in 1998 to Roger Willbanks, before being acquired by Bill Jacobs in 2005. It has resided in the collection of its current owner and consignor since 2008. Importantly, there are no known breaks in XKD 518’s record of ownership or gaps in its history, and the car is included in authoritative marque and model texts including Jaguar Sports Racing Cars: C-Type, D-Type, XKSS and Lightweight E-Type and Jaguar C-Type. D-Type & Lightweight E-Type Register.
Painted British Racing Green at some point in its past, XKD 518 has since been returned to its factory Red. Inside the remarkably low-slung cockpit, the correct red interior upholstery found on the lap belt-equipped seats continues on the transmission tunnel. The car’s two seats are a separated by a divider, a feature eliminated on the XKSS road cars; a purposeful wood-rimmed steering wheel—all D-Types were right-hand drive—sits in front of a suite of Smiths gauges. A black tonneau cover provides a degree of weather protection when parked.
Initially built with a narrow windscreen and no tailfin behind its headrest, XKD 518 was, as car engaged in regular racing, upgraded as D-Type design was honed by competition. Currently, the car is fitted with a full-width windscreen, a configuration shown in some period photographs; precisely when it gained its distinctive tailfin remains unknown.
Underneath the car’s aerodynamically sculpted bonnet, fittingly secured by leather straps, sits the numbers-matching 3.4-liter dry-sump XK engine (both block and cylinder head are stamped E 2028-9). Fed by triple Weber carburetors, breathing through passenger-side-mounted exhaust, and mated to four-speed transmission, this combination was rated at 245 horsepower when new. Meanwhile, at the very tail of the car, a full-size spare wheel is hidden away in small boot; the fuel filler cap is similarly concealed from sight in a compartment behind the driver’s headrest at the base of the tailfin.
Advanced in design and construction and highly successful in competition—while also distinguishing itself as one of the most aesthetically pleasing racing machines ever devised—any Jaguar D-Type is an important and notable vehicle. Beyond its distinctive color combination, XKD 518’s particular appeal lies in its well-documented provenance, including a healthy record of in-period racing. Further, despite ample time spent on circuits, it has survived to the present accompanied by its original engine, cylinder head, and bodywork. Needless to say, not all competition machinery from racing’s golden era has been so lucky.
A compelling centerpiece for any serious collection of significant sports and racing cars, XKD 518 is also a worthy candidate for vintage competition at the highest and most prestigious levels; it awaits a dedicated owner prepared to carry on the legacy established by racers and enthusiasts in the decades since this special D-Type first left Coventry.
This vehicle will be offered at RM Sotheby’s 22nd annual Arizona sale, kicking off its 2021 auction calendar at the OTTO Car Club on Friday, 22 January. It will join approximately 80 blue-chip motor cars, and the sale will be a live event with limited attendance; online and phone bidding options are available by contacting RM Sotheby’s.
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