In the realm of classic automobiles, the Jaguar XK SS holds a legendary status. Revered for its stunning design and formidable performance, it is without doubt a true icon of the motoring world. Produced by Jaguar Cars Ltd for the U.S. export market between 1957 and 1958, the Jaguar XK SS is a road-conversion of the Jaguar D-type race car. Only 16 of these magnificent beasts were ever built before a fire at the factory brought its production to a halt. Given its rarity and age, one might reasonably assume that obtaining official parts and components for the Jaguar XK SS would be a significant challenge. But is this truly the case? Let’s dive in.
To begin with, authenticity matters in vintage automobile restoration. Using original or official components to keep a classic car like the XK SS running is important to maintain its value and authenticity. However, given that the number of XK SS models was limited to 16, surely the availability of original parts is quite scarce, right?
Contradictory to common presumptions, it’s not an impossible mission to maintain an XK SS, courtesy of Jaguar’s Classic Works, an entity dedicated to preserving the esteemed British car maker’s heritage. Their work includes the restoration of classic models by manufacturing new original parts following the exact specifications used decades ago.
In 2016, Jaguar Land Rover Classic embarked on an ambitious project to resurrect the XK SS, building the nine ‘lost’ XK SS cars that were destroyed in the 1957 Browns Lane factory fire. These nine cars, known as the ‘continuation’ models, were built to the exact specification as their 1950s counterparts.
To produce these ‘continuation’ models, Jaguar engineers went to great lengths, employing modern technology such as 3D scanning and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to re-create each component part with extraordinary accuracy. This adventure led to the creation of an extensive catalogue of authentic components that could be used in maintaining and restoring an XK SS.
So, can one readily obtain official parts and components for the XK SS? The answer is a resounding, yes! Though it’s essential to note that words like ‘readily’ and ‘easily’ carry a different weight in the world of classic vehicles. Considering the exclusivity of the vehicle in question, acquiring the parts isn’t as easy as ordering components for a contemporary vehicle.
Bear in mind that the demand for these parts is not high due to the limited number of these models in existence, which prompts Jaguar to manufacture them on a per-order basis. This entails some waiting time for these spare parts and components, depending on the intricacy and complexity of the specific piece, but compared to other classic cars of a similar age, availability is markedly better.
In conclusion, Jaguar’s commitment to preserving their heritage makes it possible for owners of the Jaguar XK SS to keep these classic machines running in all their original glory. It’s a bespoke service, fitting for such a unique and historical automobile. So while obtaining parts and components for the XK SS may not follow the immediate-access mode of modern buying, it is certainly possible with some patience, and a willingness to engage with the heartening world of classic car restoration.