Dreaming of cruising in a classic Jaguar—without the six-figure price tag? You’re not alone. Jaguar kit cars have become the go-to solution for enthusiasts craving iconic style and thrilling performance, all at a fraction of the cost. But here’s the catch: not all kit car manufacturers are created equal. The difference between a showstopper and a headache comes down to choosing the right factory. Ready to discover which suppliers truly deliver?
Let’s dive in and compare the top Jaguar kit car manufacturers so you can turn your dream ride into reality!
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Complete List of Kit Car Manufacturers – The Gentleman Racer
Product Details:
A wide selection of kit cars and replica vehicles, including Aston Martin DBR1/DBR2 replicas, VW-based Dune Buggies, Porsche Spyder aluminum replicas, Ferrari-inspired kit cars based on Pontiac Fiero, MG TG sports car replicas based on Mazda MX-5, classic Willys Gasser, Pro Street Cars, and all-steel hot rod bodies based on the 1933 Ford Roadster.
Technical Parameters:
– Kits based on donor vehicles such as 1984-1988 Pontiac Fiero, Mazda MX-5,
– Options for aluminum or steel bodies (e.g., Porsche Spyder replica with
– Some kits range from body-only to turnkey (fully assembled) vehicles.
– VW-based platforms for dune buggies and similar kits.
Application Scenarios:
– Car enthusiasts seeking to build their own dream or classic car replicas.
– Custom automotive hobbyists interested in project and restoration builds.
– Buyers wanting vintage style with modern or replica components.
– Motorsport clubs or collectors seeking accurate recreations of historic
Pros:
– Provides access to classic and rare car designs at lower cost than originals.
– Flexibility to customize or select levels of completion from kit to turnkey.
– Some replicas are club-accepted due to high accuracy (e.g., Allard Motor Works).
– Wide variety of styles from roadsters, hot rods, sports cars, to dune buggies.
Cons:
– Kits often require significant assembly skill and time investment.
– Availability of donor vehicles or specific parts may be limited.
– Exact technical specifications for each kit/car are limited or may vary widely.
– Potential legal, registration, or insurance complications for kit/replica
Wildcat – The Car
XK120 Roadster Replica by American Classic – Davidsclassiccars.com
Product Details:
The XK120 Roadster Replica by American Classic is a handmade replica of the classic Jaguar XK120, utilizing modern components for reliability and ease of maintenance. These cars are crafted in Brazil and assembled in Texas, offering the appearance of a vintage Jaguar with updated performance and comfort. Multiple configurations and colors are available, with vehicles for sale primarily in the United States.
Technical Parameters:
– Top quality fiberglass body with tubular chassis
– Chevy 350/330HP GM Performance engine with Holley 600 CFM carburetor
– TH 350 Automatic transmission, rear end Camaro 2010/2014 3.27 ratio
– Front and rear independent suspension with QA1 adjustable shock absorbers,
Application Scenarios:
– Weekend driving for enthusiasts seeking a classic look with modern reliability
– Traveling on holidays without concerns about sourcing rare parts
– Daily use for those desiring a vintage-style convertible with low maintenance
Pros:
– Lower maintenance costs due to use of easily sourced and modern parts
– Handmade quality with modern comfort features such as power steering, leather
– Modern performance and reliability paired with classic design
– Customization options and availability in multiple configurations and colors
Cons:
– Not an original Jaguar; may not appeal to purists or collectors seeking
– Potentially limited resale value compared to genuine classic cars
– Handmade nature may result in variability in build or finish quality
Aristocat – Autotune (Rishton) Ltd
Product Details:
The Aristocat is a classically styled replica sports car inspired by the Jaguar XK Series, designed and built by Autotune since 1983. It is available in kit form for home assembly, primarily using donor components from Jaguar XJ6, XJS, or XJ12 models from 1968-1996. The car features a steel spaceframe chassis, with options for windscreen types, weather gear, and chrome work.
Technical Parameters:
– Steel spaceframe chassis, fully bracketed for Jaguar component integration
– Compatible with donor parts from Jaguar XJ6, XJS, or XJ12 (1968-1996), using
– XJ series suspension axles used unmodified; car is 5 inches wider than
– Performance: 0-60 MPH in 6 seconds, top speed over 150 MPH (prototype tested)
– Passed EC Directive Regulation 14 seat belt anchorage pull test (3 tons load)
– Continuous production for over 35 years, exported worldwide
Application Scenarios:
– Home assembly projects by automotive enthusiasts
– Recreation of classic Jaguar XK Series experience using modern mechanicals
– Kit car exhibitions, vintage motorsports, racing circuits, and hillclimbs
– Custom classic car builds for collectors or drivers seeking classic automotive
Pros:
– Classic aesthetics combined with modern, reliable Jaguar mechanicals
– Spacious cockpit and boot suitable for taller drivers and increased practicality
– Cost-effective build due to high donor component utilization (~80%)
– Proven durability and performance with motorsport pedigree and regulatory
Cons:
– Wider track than original XK models (may affect purist authenticity or
– Requires sourcing a suitable Jaguar donor car
– Home assembly may not suit buyers without technical skill
Kit Car List of Auto Manufacturers
Veloce Cars
Product Details:
Veloce Cars specializes in world-class hand-built recreations of classic cars, notably the 1957 Jaguar XKSS, meticulously crafted by Shapecraft in Great Britain. These vehicles are built from original drawings and body bucks, aiming for accurate period-correct specifications and an authentic driving experience.
Technical Parameters:
– Chassis: Period correct D-Type chassis, designed to accept independent Jaguar
– Body: 100% hand-made aluminum panels based on original D-Type wooden buck, 2
– Engine: Later Jaguar 4.2L engine (VSE fast road race spec) with triple 45 DCOE
– Gearbox: Choice of 4-speed Jaguar box with overdrive or Getrag 5-speed.
Application Scenarios:
– Classic car enthusiast collections and private museums.
– Vintage motorsport and historic racing events.
– Recreational driving for collectors wanting an authentic 1950s Jaguar XKSS
Pros:
– Meticulously hand-built with period-correct details, ensuring authenticity.
– Extensive customization options including color, leather, and accessories.
– Use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship by renowned panelcrafters.
– Performance-oriented while retaining the classic look and feel.
Cons:
– As a recreation, not eligible for certain competitions or historical registers
– Potential high cost due to bespoke craftsmanship and labor intensity.
– Limited to those who appreciate or require exact historical accuracy and may
Autotune Aristocat Jaguar XK120 replica | Rare Car Network
Product Details:
The Autotune Aristocat is a Jaguar XK120 replica designed to emulate the classic look of the original XK120 sports car while addressing its shortcomings. It is built with improved comfort, ride quality, and customization options, targeting enthusiasts who want vintage style without the drawbacks of the original.
Technical Parameters:
– Based on a strong, rigid space-frame chassis (improved over the original’s
– More sophisticated front suspension than the original XK120.
– Customizable exterior detailing, such as choice of lights (XK120 or XK150
– Maintains the iconic ‘light line’ body curve of the original XK120/140 models.
Application Scenarios:
– Classic car enthusiasts seeking a vintage Jaguar XK120 appearance with enhanced
– Car collectors wanting a reliable and comfortable alternative to original
– Hobbyists interested in building or customizing replica cars.
Pros:
– Improved ride comfort and interior space compared to the original XK120.
– Customizable features allow personalization of lights and trim.
– Replicates the classic look and appeal of the Jaguar XK120 at a lower cost.
– Higher drivability and practicality for regular use than the original.
Cons:
– As a replica, it may lack the collectible value or authenticity of an original
– Dependent on builder skill/choices for final quality and appearance (kit-style
RCR D-Type – Race Car Replicas
Product Details:
The RCR D-Type is a replica of the legendary Jaguar D-Type Le Mans race car made by Race Car Replicas. It features an aluminum monocoque chassis with bolt-on steel subframes and a fiberglass body, designed to closely resemble the original vehicle. It supports both the original Jaguar XK-series engines and the more common Tremec World Class T5 5-speed transmission.
The RCR D-Type is available in three tail styles: plain, rounded headrest (Sebring style), and the classic iconic fin (Le Mans style), and all are built as right-hand drive.
Technical Parameters:
– Aluminum monocoque chassis with bolt-on steel subframes
– Fiberglass body for ease of manufacturing and repair
– Supports Jaguar XK-series engines and Tremec World Class T5 5-speed
– Available with three tail styles: plain, Sebring rounded headrest, Le Mans fin
Application Scenarios:
– Replica builds for automotive enthusiasts
– Historic racing or track day events
– Automotive restoration projects
– Display/show car for collectors
Pros:
– Accurate reproduction of the iconic Jaguar D-Type with modern manufacturing
– Flexible drivetrain options allow use of both original and easily sourced
– Fiberglass body simplifies construction and repair
– Multiple tail options to match specific historic variants
Cons:
– Only available in right-hand drive; no left-hand-drive option
– Original Jaguar 4-speed gearbox considered weaker compared to modern
Autotune | Aristocat Jaguar XK140 replica – Kit Car Links
Product Details:
Maker of traditional classic replica kit cars, including the Aristocat (Jaguar XK series replica), Gemini (inspired by 1950s Falcon and Elva sports cars), and Can-Am (McLaren M1B/M1C recreation). Aristocat offered in Sports and 140 Coupe versions; Can-Am available with narrow B spec tail or winged C spec tail. Also offers classic sports car restoration services and has used cars for sale.
Technical Parameters:
– Aristocat available in Sports and 140 Coupe versions
– Can-Am available with narrow B spec tail or winged C spec tail
– Gemini inspired by 1950s Falcon and Elva sports cars
– Can-Am recreates McLaren M1B/M1C
Application Scenarios:
– Building and driving classic replica sports cars
– Vehicle restoration for classic sports cars
– Collectors seeking vintage-style kit cars
– Purchasing used classic replica cars
Pros:
– Wide variety of traditional replica models
– Models inspired by iconic classic sports cars
– Options for customizing body styles (e.g., Can-Am tail variants)
– Company has racing pedigree and history in sports car restoration
Cons:
– Limited information on technical specifications or performance data
– Niche appeal, primarily for classic and kit car enthusiasts
25 Kit Cars That Won’t Break The Bank – SlashGear
Product Details:
Factory Five, Realm Engineering (Heritage C Type), Carolina Vaydor, and DDR Motorsport (Grullón GT8) offer affordable kit car solutions that allow customers to build sports cars or hot rods from kits. Kits may include bodywork, chassis, and key structural components; most require sourcing a donor vehicle and/or engine separately.
Technical Parameters:
– Kits range in price from approximately $13,200 to $23,800 (base kit component
– Require donor vehicles such as Jaguar XJ6 (Realm C Type), Infiniti G35
– Factory Five complete kits generally include the body, chassis, interior parts,
– Features may include options like power windows, air conditioning,
Application Scenarios:
– Building a personalized high-performance sports car or replica with a custom
– Track-day cars or weekend cruisers with unique vintage or supercar-inspired
– DIY automotive enthusiast projects for those seeking the satisfaction of
– Cost-effective alternatives to rare or exotic cars for car shows or daily
Pros:
– Substantially lower cost than buying rare or new performance cars; many kits
– High degree of customization—choice of engines, parts, and interior/exterior
– No need to source rare donor vehicles for some kits (e.g., Factory Five Hot
– Ability to build a unique or iconic car model with modern reliability and
Cons:
– Significant time, skill, and effort required for assembly; not ideal for
– Total build costs (including donor car, labor, paint, and extras) can exceed
– May lack warranty support for non-factory-assembled parts or DIY builds.
– Some kits require complex donor components (e.g., Porsche transaxle for DDR
Comparison Table
Company | Product Details | Pros | Cons | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
Complete List of Kit Car Manufacturers – The Gentleman Racer | A wide selection of kit cars and replica vehicles, including Aston Martin | Provides access to classic and rare car designs at lower cost than originals | Kits often require significant assembly skill and time investment. Availability | thegentlemanracer.com |
Wildcat – The Car | www.jprwildcat.co.uk | |||
XK120 Roadster Replica by American Classic – Davidsclassiccars.com | The XK120 Roadster Replica by American Classic is a handmade replica of the | Lower maintenance costs due to use of easily sourced and modern parts Handmade | Not an original Jaguar; may not appeal to purists or collectors seeking | davidsclassiccars.com |
Aristocat – Autotune (Rishton) Ltd | The Aristocat is a classically styled replica sports car inspired by the Jaguar | Classic aesthetics combined with modern, reliable Jaguar mechanicals Spacious | Wider track than original XK models (may affect purist authenticity or | www.autotuneuk.com |
Kit Car List of Auto Manufacturers | www.kitcarlist.com | |||
Veloce Cars | Veloce Cars specializes in world-class hand-built recreations of classic cars, | Meticulously hand-built with period-correct details, ensuring authenticity | As a recreation, not eligible for certain competitions or historical registers | www.velocecars.com |
Autotune Aristocat Jaguar XK120 replica | Rare Car Network | The Autotune Aristocat is a Jaguar XK120 replica designed to emulate the | Improved ride comfort and interior space compared to the original XK120 | As a replica, it may lack the collectible value or authenticity of an original |
RCR D-Type – Race Car Replicas | The RCR D-Type is a replica of the legendary Jaguar D-Type Le Mans race car | Accurate reproduction of the iconic Jaguar D-Type with modern manufacturing | Only available in right-hand drive; no left-hand-drive option Original Jaguar | race-car-replicas.com |
Autotune | Aristocat Jaguar XK140 replica – Kit Car Links | Maker of traditional classic replica kit cars, including the Aristocat (Jaguar | Wide variety of traditional replica models Models inspired by iconic classic | Limited information on technical specifications or performance data Niche |
25 Kit Cars That Won’t Break The Bank – SlashGear | Factory Five, Realm Engineering (Heritage C Type), Carolina Vaydor, and DDR | Substantially lower cost than buying rare or new performance cars; many kits | Significant time, skill, and effort required for assembly; not ideal for | www.slashgear.com |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I find reliable Jaguar kit car manufacturers?
Start with online research through specialty forums, classic car clubs, and dedicated kit car directories. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers, and check each manufacturer’s history, reputation, and experience in producing Jaguar kits.
What should I look for when choosing a manufacturer?
Compare build quality, available customization options, customer support, and after-sales service. Make sure the manufacturer provides clear instructions, offers spare parts, and uses high-quality materials. Transparent pricing and comprehensive warranty options are also important.
Are there specific certifications or accreditations to consider?
Yes, reputable manufacturers often hold certifications for quality and safety standards, such as ISO accreditation. Additionally, check if their kits comply with local vehicle registration requirements to ensure your build will be legal for road use.
Can I visit the factory or see previous builds before making a decision?
Many manufacturers welcome factory visits or can connect you with owners of completed vehicles. This allows you to assess workmanship firsthand and ask questions. Viewing previous builds also helps you understand available options and craftsmanship.
How long does it typically take to receive a kit car from order to delivery?
Lead times vary by manufacturer, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on demand and customization. Always confirm timelines upfront to manage your expectations and plan your build accordingly.