Model Car Dark green Jaguar XK120C number 18 (1953 24 Hours of Le Mans)
Scale 1/43
T. Rolt / D. Hamilton
Your payment information is processed securely.
){kind=link}
A 24 Hours of Le Mans legend in model car
This dark green Jaguar XK120C number 18 faithfully reproduces one of the most iconic cars of the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans . Driven by the duo of Tony Rolt and Duncan Hamilton, this model car captures the very essence of the golden age of British endurance racing. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, this piece represents a true collector's item that will appeal to both car enthusiasts and motorsport history lovers.
Produced in 1:43 scale, this model car offers an exceptional level of detail that pays homage to the original. Every element, from the bodywork to the cockpit details, has been reproduced with remarkable precision to recreate the unique atmosphere of this heroic era of Le Mans.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Jaguar XK120C
- Brand: Jaguar
- Year: 1953
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: British Dark Green
- Race number: 18
- Drivers: T. Rolt / D. Hamilton
- Protective case included: Yes
The Jaguar XK120C: Birth of a Legend
The Jaguar XK120C , also known as the C-Type, was born in 1951 in the Coventry workshops. Designed specifically for endurance racing, it represented the natural evolution of the road-going XK120 into a thoroughbred competition car . Its revolutionary tubular chassis and bodywork redesigned by Malcolm Sayer made it a formidable weapon on the European circuits.
Powered by the legendary 3.4-liter XK six-cylinder engine , the C-Type developed around 200 horsepower, a considerable output for the time. Its aluminum body, lighter and more aerodynamic than that of its predecessor, gave it exceptional performance on the long straights of the Sarthe. This perfect combination of power and elegance made the XK120C one of the most desirable sports cars of the 1950s.
The C-Type's commercial success exceeded Jaguar's expectations. Although produced in a limited series for homologation, it quickly became a symbol of British sports car expertise , paving the way for future legends such as the D-Type and E-Type.
Jaguar in the 1950s: Coventry's Golden Age
The early 1950s were a particularly prosperous time for Jaguar Cars under the leadership of Sir William Lyons. The leaping feline brand built a worldwide reputation thanks to its racing successes, notably at Le Mans, where it dominated the sports car category. This era marked the height of the British automotive industry, where traditional craftsmanship met technical innovation.
Founded in 1922 as the Swallow Sidecar Company, Jaguar has grown to become one of the world's most prestigious manufacturers . The 1950s represented a turning point, as the brand asserted its unique identity, combining sporty performance with British refinement. This philosophy, embodied by the XK120C, still influences the brand's designs today.
Jaguar's commitment to racing during this decade was not limited to mere commercial promotion. It was a veritable development laboratory where technical innovations tested in racing then benefited production models, creating a virtuous circle between sport and innovation.
The memorable epic of Rolt and Hamilton
The story of this Jaguar XK120C number 18 at the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans is almost legendary. Tony Rolt and Duncan Hamilton formed an atypical duo in the hushed world of endurance racing. Hamilton, a talented but somewhat eccentric driver, arrived at Le Mans several hours late after a boozy night out in London. Some witnesses say he was still under the influence of alcohol when he got behind the wheel!
Despite this chaotic start, the British duo delivered an absolutely remarkable race . Their green XK120C proved to be exemplary in its reliability, devouring the kilometers without flinching on the Sarthe circuit. Hamilton, whose reflexes paradoxically seemed sharpened by his condition, chained together fast laps with disconcerting regularity, while Rolt took over with his usual professionalism.
This performance has become legendary at Le Mans not only for the victory achieved, but also for the incredible circumstances surrounding it. The anecdote perfectly illustrates the spirit of endurance racing in the 1950s, where human adventure often took precedence over pure technique. This victory helped forge the myth of Jaguar at Le Mans, a reputation that the British brand still cultivates today.
Beyond the sporting achievement, this race marks a turning point in the history of motor racing. It demonstrates that the combination of talent and machine can transcend the most improbable circumstances, creating exceptional moments that will forever be etched in the history of motorsport.
Complete your collection of British model cars
This Jaguar XK120C occupies a special place in the world of prestige model cars. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to Le Mans 24 Hours cars or legendary Jaguar racing cars. Its meticulous finish and historical authenticity make it an ideal complement to other models in the British racing range.
Collectors with a passion for racing cars will particularly appreciate this piece, which sits harmoniously alongside other iconic racing cars from the 1950s. It also finds its place alongside models representative of this golden decade of the automobile.
This model car is aimed at both seasoned collectors and novices wishing to begin their collection with a reference piece. It is an excellent entry point to discover the fascinating world of 1/43rd scale model cars , while offering automotive history enthusiasts an authentic testimony to the golden age of European endurance racing . Its protective case guarantees optimal conservation, thus preserving this piece of history for future generations of collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
What our customers say
Customer feedback and testimonials