Originally built in 1966, the Jaguar XJ13 is one of the most iconic and elusive cars in motoring history.

Intended as a Le Mans prototype, its racing career was cut short when Jaguar halted development before it ever hit the track.

Just one original XJ13 was produced, featuring a 5.0-litre V12 engine and a sleek aluminium body that was far ahead of its time aerodynamically.

The sole car crashed during a promotional shoot in 1971 but was later restored by Jaguar and now resides in the company’s heritage collection—never to be sold.

Its mystique has inspired a small number of faithful recreations, with only three known high-spec replicas in existence.

One was recently unveiled at the Valletta Concours, built with painstaking accuracy using original blueprints, custom parts, and a V12 engine.

This Valletta example is considered one of the finest ever made. Experts estimate its value between €900,000 and €1.5 million, depending on craftsmanship and historical fidelity.

Although the original XJ13 is priceless and unlikely to be sold, its replicas are highly coveted among collectors. The car stands not merely as a machine, but as a tribute to a chapter of Jaguar history that never reached the racetrack.

#MaltaDaily