An all-time high of 415 Jaguars purred into the grounds of the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu increasing the number of cars at this year’s Simply Jaguar rally by 47 per cent.
The number of participants also rose by 35 per cent to 860, as crowds were treated to glorious sunshine and a superb selection of revered sports cars and saloons, including a 1949 Jaguar 3½ litre Mk V, the classic XK120, XK140, XK150, E-type and latest F-Pace SUV.
A stunning replica of a racing C-type was a highlight for many enthusiasts, taking pride of place alongside first-class examples of the F-type, XK8 and XJ-S sports cars, as well as a Jaguar XJ saloon that had been modified to race-track specification. The iconic Mk II saloon and its Mk I predecessor also joined the display, along with classic and modern-day versions of the S-type.
Throughout the event on Sunday July 8th, show-goers voted for their favourite car of the show in the People’s Choice Award. The winner was Jim Bradford, from Barton-on-Sea, with his 2014 Jaguar XF R-S Sportbrake. In the four years that Jim has owned the eye-catching Ultra Blue road-burner, he has lowered the suspension by 35mm, uprated the braking system and fitted a sports exhaust system. He was presented with a commemorative trophy and Autoglym bodywork care kit by Beaulieu’s Managing Director Russell Bowman.
Runners-up were Tom Moon, from High Wycombe, and Malcolm Watson, from Hordle in Hampshire. Tom has owned his 2005 Jaguar S-type R for three years and, aside from refurbishing the wheels, he has just enjoyed the car’s comfortable ride.
Malcolm’s 1963 Jaguar E-type is an impressive replica of the special Lightweight version raced by Peter Lindner and has been completely restored during his 10-year ownership. Both Tom and Malcolm were presented with Autoglym bodywork care kits.
The Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club was well-represented by several of its area branches, with club stands showcasing their members’ cars. Visitors browsed a selection of motoring-themed trade stands before enjoying all the features of the Beaulieu attraction, including the 1962 Jaguar E-type and 1960 Jaguar XK150 in the National Motor Museum.
The rally continues Beaulieu’s season of Simply events, which has seen record car numbers at Simply Ford, Simply Porsche and Simply Land Rover, as well as a strong start for new event Simply Audi.
Simply Jaguar is one of nine Simply rallies in Beaulieu’s 2018 event calendar. Still to come are Simply Japanese on July 29th and Simply Smart on November 11th. For tickets or more details click here.
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