1968 registered (mid 80s built) Proteus Jaguar C-Type

Jim Marland was the original man behind the Proteus company, which specialised in reproducing accurate and highly engineered replicas of the original Jaguar 'C' and 'D' Types of the 1950's. Still in business today based in Silchester, Berkshire, the company is world renowned for it's integrity of design, engineering excellence and superb craftsmanship of replica Jaguars, which has continued through it's various owners right up to the present day. Infact, Jim has recently rejoined the company as a Technical Consultant for their current special projects.

This car was built by Jim in the mid 80s as an early right-hand drive example of the breed and may have been used for some early development, as famed historic racing driver - Willie Green - recalled when he saw the car with the current vendor and recognised the registration number and remembered driving the car and testing some parts for Jim.

The engine has received a substantial rebuild with over £7,000 spent upgrading the engine to competition spec with race cams, valves and cylinder head with triple Weber 45 DCOEs, now giving 250 BHP at the rear wheels. The transmission is a Getrag 5-speed with limited slip differential and the suspension and brakes incorporate competition dampers and brake pads. In 2008, the cooling system was redesigned and built to incorporate an aluminium radiator and Samco hoses with thermostatic fan at a cost of £4,300 with Bill Gwynne Motorsport and in May 2009 the car was prepared for competition (sprints and hillclimbs only, including a class win at the M.A.C. Curborough in 2010) by R and J Simpson Engineering Ltd. for a further cost of £3,500 which included a detachable roll cage for competition use.

The current vendor acquired the car in 2004 from the famous musician and noted car collector, Jools Holland, and has subsequently spent much time and money keeping the car in good order and gradually upgrading it for fast road use and the odd hillclimb or sprint.

Built on an aluminium tub with aluminium doors and complete with period number plate and registration, it was valued by the Jaguar Drivers Club at £25000 in 1998 (!) making it look real value today. The car is ready now to be enjoyed as a value for money sportscar that should provide fun and exhilaration in a reliable and extremely well engineered package. Spare wheels, a tonneau cover, passenger seat and an indoor fitted fleece car cover are all included with this Lot.