The Jaguar XK 120C, also known as the Jaguar C-Type, was produced in the early 1950s and was a groundbreaking racing car of its time. This first generation of the Jaguar XK 120C was built from 1951 to 1953. The vehicle was designed by engineers William Heynes, Bob Knight, and designer Malcolm Sayer, who specifically created a car for endurance races. The Jaguar XK 120C was equipped with a 3.4-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, producing around 200 hp at 5800 rpm. This technical achievement allowed the vehicle to reach speeds of up to 230 km/h (143 mph). In addition to an efficient engine, the Jaguar XK 120C featured a lightweight aluminum body that not only reduced weight but also contributed to aerodynamics.
Within motorsport, the Jaguar XK 120C was an exceptionally successful vehicle. It became famous for its victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1951, British driver Peter Walker together with Peter Whitehead won this famous endurance race in the Jaguar XK 120C. This triumph was a milestone for both the Jaguar brand and the vehicle itself in the motorsport scene. In 1953, the car once again clinched victory at Le Mans, this time with drivers Duncan Hamilton and Tony Rolt behind the wheel. These successes underscored the reliability and technical superiority of the vehicle.
In addition to wins at Le Mans, the Jaguar XK 120C achieved numerous successes at other prestigious racing events. Drivers like Stirling Moss and Phil Walters, who also piloted the Jaguar XK 120C, contributed to the legendary reputation of the vehicle. The combination of technical sophistication and driving skill cemented the Jaguar XK 120C's secure place in racing history.
The 1/18 scale miniature showcased here was produced by AUTOart and belongs to Modelly member "Koen's" collection. This miniature represents the vehicle with the highest level of detail and is an exact replica of the original. The racing car's registration number "774RW" and the starting number "18" on the hood are noticeable. The dark green color of the model corresponds to the historical shade of the original. Additionally, the fine lines and air vents on the front grille, as well as the authentic design of the front and rear lights, are noteworthy. This miniature is an excellent example of the precise and detailed models that can be made in the 1/18 scale today.
The AUTOart model impresses with its remarkable quality and attention to detail. The hand-painted taillights, the reflective surface of the green paintwork, and the precise design of the rims are just some of the features that make the model look authentic. The exact placement of the race numbers and the color-coordinated rims complete the overall picture. Inner details, such as the realistically crafted engine bay and the finely detailed dashboard, are also eye-catching. This model can almost make the viewer forget that they are not standing in front of a real racing car.