Finest preserved Jaguar C-Type offered at Bonhams

The world's finest preserved Jaguar C-Type will headline Bonhams' Monaco sale in Monte Carlo on May 13.

The car is a 1952 XK120C racer with the chassis number XKC 011 - however, research indicates that it may in fact be its sister car, XKC 047.

Jaguar CType Bonhams
1952 Jaguar XK120C has a storied racing history

During its short racing career XKC 047 racked up several solid results at various major European races, including a win at Goodwood.

It's believed the car was stamped with the number XKC 011 before it was sold on to Dunlop in 1955, where it was used as a test car.

The lot has not been restored, but remains in very good condition.

James Knight, Group Motoring Director of Bonhams, commented: "Bonhams has been assisted in its investigation regarding this famous Jaguar C-Type by a wealth of experts…

"While officially sold by the Jaguar factory as 'XKC 011', the histories of '011' and '047' - which became intertwined during the preceding 1954 Le Mans race period have baffled any number of Jaguar enthusiasts and historians over the years.

"These recent collective efforts - most notably with the total support of the long-term owner - are getting closer to unlocking this exciting mystery in this gloriously-preserved old war-horse's very early life."

The car is expected to sell for around $4.4m-5.5m.

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