Jaguar D-Type
The aeronautical masterpiece that secured Jaguar's Le Mans hat-trick.
- Power
- 250 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.7 s
- Top speed
- 162 mph
- Est. value
- $3.5m–$22m
About the Jaguar D-Type
The Jaguar D-Type is a landmark of automotive engineering, famously pioneering the use of a magnesium alloy monocoque central section derived from aviation technology. Designed by aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer, its fluid shape and distinctive vertical tail fin were engineered for high-speed stability on the Mulsanne Straight. The 3.4-litre XK engine, canted at eight degrees to fit the low bonnet line, delivered dominant performance that secured outright Le Mans victories in 1955, 1956, and 1957. For collectors, the D-Type represents the absolute zenith of 1950s sports racing, blending brutal efficiency with one of the most beautiful silhouettes in motoring history.
Jaguar D-Type specs
The Jaguar D-Type produces 250 bhp (186 kW) and 328 Nm (242 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h).
| Make | Jaguar |
|---|---|
| Model | D-Type |
| Trim | 3.4 |
| Years | 1954–1957 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 75 built |
| Engine | 3.4-litre naturally aspirated straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,442 cc (3.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 250 bhp (186 kW) at 5,750 rpm |
| Torque | 328 Nm (242 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.7 s |
| Top speed | 162 mph (261 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 875 kg (1,929 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 286 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Jaguar D-Type worth?
A typical Jaguar D-Type is estimated to be worth $3,500,000 – $21,780,000 (about £2,610,000 – £16,240,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Jaguar D-Type rarity in CarSpot
The Jaguar D-Type is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Jaguar D-Type fun facts
- The D-Type was the first racing car to successfully utilise a monocoque construction, a technique now standard in modern Formula 1.
- A factory fire in 1957 destroyed nine unfinished chassis, leading Jaguar to convert the remaining stock into the road-legal XKSS.
- The 1956 Le Mans winner (chassis XKD 501) sold for $21.78 million in 2016, making it the most expensive British car ever sold at auction at that time.
