1957 Jaguar D-Type Recreation by Tempero

The D-Type is one of Jaguar’s most famous and successful creations. It was a winner right out of the gate, particularly at the Le Mans 24 Hours. A development of the Le Mans-winning C-type, the D-Type was also designed by aerodynamicist Malcom Sayer, and would go on to win many races, including Le Mans in 1955, 56 and 57. It continued to use the sophisticated twin cam XK inline-6 and disk brakes. There are only 16 road-going XK-SS variants. In any case, there are simply too few survivors to satisfy the ongoing demand for these. In the early 1980s, the Tempero Automobile Company of South Ireland, New Zealand began limited production of new D-Types, faithfully based on the original design.

Tempero, which has been in the construction of coach built cars since 1946, builds each D-Type using traditional methods – hammering and shaping each aluminium body panel by hand across wooden bucks. It’s a process that can take months to complete, and often times only the keenest of eyes can pick out a Tempero from and original, making these more of a “recreation” than “replica.” The wheels are faithful reproductions of the original Dunlop “knockoff” alloys. The bonnet comes latched with authentic leather straps, and inside, the driver is greeted with the classic three-spoke steering wheel and offered a throw at a Jaguar four-speed gearbox. As is common on top-quality recreations, the engine, transmission, and rear axle are all original Jaguar components, and these trace their origins back to a Jaguar saloon donor car.

High quality reconfigurations carrying Jaguar chassis and running gear, and alloy bodies of the original style and construction type, have garnered the interest of enthusiasts seeking the experienced of owning and driving one of the world’s most important automobiles.

This particular car was built by Errol Tempero in 1984 under instruction by prominent Auckland businessman. Subsequently the car has had two other owners, the last having the vehicle in storage for the past 20 years. This D-Type has competed in various historic racing meets around New Zealand before being placed in storage.

The car has independent rear suspension and disc brakes all around. The body is hand formed all aluminium which replicates the style of the short nose cars. The car has full Smiths instrumentation as well as a tool roll and matching spare wheel.

The car is noted as being very fast, with its light weight and powerful XK six-cylinder gold head n motor. The gearbox shifts well, and with its E-Type independent rear suspension and four-wheel disk brakes, the car handles and brakes very well, while the side-exit exhaust adds a competition flair. Today, the engine is very clean in presentation, complete with triple Weber carburettors.

Appropriately finished in British Racing Green with Period Finished cabin. Dunlop pegged alloy wheels with knock-offs and Dunlop racing tyres, this car is a wonderful link to the glory days of 1950s sports car racing. Since most original D-Types are within long-term ownership and rarely come to market, this car offers the opportunity to experience the legendary D-Type at an attractive price point.

Features include:
265 bhp
3,781 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder Jaguar XK engine
Three dual-choke Weber carburettors
Four-speed manual gearbox
Four-wheel independent suspension
Four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
Wheelbase 96’’
This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a stunning, high performance Jaguar that replicates the feel of one of the all-time great Jaguars.