Racing Legend 1955 Jaguar D-Type XKD 523 to Grace Hampton Court Palace

One of the most historically significant short-nose D-Types ever built will star at next month’s Concours of Elegance, held at Hampton Court Palace. XKD 523, an exceptional customer D-Type with fascinating American privateer racing history, represents the essence of Jaguar’s legendary 1950s sports racing programme.

Built in November 1955 and exported to the United States through Max Hoffman’s New York dealership, XKD 523 embodies an age when privateer drivers could purchase genuine factory racers, and immediately compete at the front of the grid. Initially retailed to Roberts Harrison in the USA for $7,950, the car quickly found its way to Walter Huggler of St. Davids, Pennsylvania, who transformed it into a formidable American competitor.

The D-Type made immediate impact in Huggler’s hands, securing victory in its debut race at Convair Field, Allentown, in August 1956. This led to appearances at Watkins Glen and Harewood Acres, culminating in the glamorous Governor’s Trophy at Nassau in 1956 – sharing the grid with legends Alfonso de Portago, Phil Hill, Carroll Shelby, and Stirling Moss.

What sets XKD 523 apart is its remarkable specification featuring a special 3.8-litre wide-angle “5-series” Cunningham engine, representing the pinnacle of Jaguar’s XK motor development. This sophisticated powerplant provided the perfect balance of power and reliability that made D-Types such formidable competitors.

Following its racing career, XKD 523 spent sixteen years in private collection before comprehensive restoration by marque experts CKL. This fully documented process preserved the car’s authenticity while maintaining the subtle modifications that made it so effective. 

XKD 523 will join 60 of the world’s rarest motor cars at Hampton Court Palace from September 5th to 7th, offering visitors the opportunity to witness one of the most successful and historically significant Jaguar D-Types in existence.