1952 Jaguar C-type

Owner: Jenson Button Hosted by: Gieves & Hawkes 

Every Jaguar C-type is special, but few cars can claim to have had Formula 1 champions as both its first owner and its current one, from many decades apart.

This particular C-type, chassis XKC018, is believed to have been originally supplied to Juan Manuel Fangio, and raced extensively across South America. Despite the arduous nature of motor sport in this area of the world, the car retains its matching-numbers body panels and engine. 

In the 1980s it was re-discovered and brought to the US by Bill Tracy, where it was restored and shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.  

In 2012 it took part in the Mille Miglia as part of a Jaguar Heritage Works entry, and it has competed at the Monaco Historique and the Le Mans Classic, too. It was also driven by Chris Harris in the Italian classic event, a video about which you can watch on YouTube. 

The car is now owned by 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button, taking pride of place among a varied collection of rare cars. 

Power: 205bhp Top speed: 144mph 0-60mph: 8.1 seconds

Photos: JD Classics

Gieves & Hawkes

With its headquarters at 1 Savile Row, internationally renowned tailor and menswear brand Gieves & Hawkes has over 200 years' experience in creating the finest bespoke garments. The pre-eminent English tailor holds quality at the centre of all its products.