In 1948, Jaguar created what would become one of the most famous badges in the world, as the all-new and highly advanced XK engine made its debut in the revered
XK120 sports car. To mark this milestone the
Jaguar XK Club in conjunction with the Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club have arranged a series of fantastic events that will culminate in the XK60 Diamond Celebrations taking place over the weekend of 8-10 August 2008. The scale of the event means activities, which include an auction, competitions, trophies, historic exhibitions, star guests, track action and demonstrations, will encompass two spectacular locations: Goodwood - the spiritual home of historic motor sport and nearby Cowdray Park.
Motor racing legend, Sir Stirling Moss, and Formula 1 commentator, Murray Walker, will both attend the celebrations. The event is expected to attract perhaps the finest array of Jaguar sports racing cars, such as C-types and D-types, XK120s, 140s and 150s ever gathered and seen in action - over 600 to celebrate 60 years of the car’s heritage. The feature-packed XK60 event will include a major sale of Jaguars and related automobilia by leading auction house, Bonhams.
The event will also feature parades and demonstrations on the famous Goodwood track, an open XK clinic, a show of rare and historic models and a fantastic display of Ecurie Ecosse cars. Specialist Jaguar and lifestyle exhibitors will also be present, as will a purpose-built XK village providing hospitality, live music and a fabulous fifties fashion show. A selection of rare cars from the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust will be on display as well as the latest cars in the Jaguar range including the XKR-S which can be seen at the Jaguar stand.
Discussing the XK60 Diamond Celebrations, Jaguar XK Club co-founder, Philip Porter said: "We are really excited to be organising this landmark event. The XK is one of the automotive triumphs of the 20th-century: the immense success of the original car and its groundbreaking engine is demonstrated by the survival of the XK brand into the modern age. We look forward to working with Jaguar Cars to organise the scale of celebration this level of achievement deserves." Nigel Thorley of the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club added to Porter's sentiments by saying: "It is fitting that we celebrate its anniversary with such a major weekend of activities."