Jaguar D-Type Kids Car Up for Grabs

An exclusive example of a D-Type Jaguar children's car is to be sold by Bonhams as part of its Collectors' Motor Cars and Automobilia sale at Goodwood Revival on September 17, 2010. A recreation of the 1955 'long nose' D-Type Jaguar, the small vehicle has attracted a pre-sale estimate of GBP10,000 – 12,000.

Considered by Bonhams “a fine contender at the 2012 children's 'Little Big Mans' competition at 'Le Mans Classic'”, the children’s car is in 2/3 scale and comes with its own custom built trailer for transportation.

Powered by a four stroke 110cc ohv electric start petrol engine coupled to a 4 speed automatic gearbox, the vehicle features a rear mounted external engine kill switch for parental control. The all-aluminium chassis is constructed mainly in honeycomb bonded aluminium, complete with double wishbone front suspension, coil over shock units, drum brakes, and correctly geared steering.

All lights work and are operated within the interior which is upholstered in suede green. Dimensions:- Length 2650mm Width 1070mm Height to top of screen 645mm.

Another children's car in the sale is a Jaguar XK 120 by Violetta, also expected to fetch GBP10,000 – 12,000. In 3/5 scale, it is suitable for children above the age of eight, as well as adults.

Less expensive lots include a Mercedes Benz W125 (estimate GBP3,000 – 5,000); a MG C-Type Montlhery Midget (estimate GBP6,000 – 8,000); and a half scale model of a 1940s Willys Jeep (estimate GBP2,800 – 3,500).

Meanwhile for the amateur child racer, two pedal cars are on offer: an Austin J40 (estimate GBP1,500 – 1,800) and a 'Vanwell' child's pedal racing car by Triang Ltd, 1957, (estimate GBP300 – 400), which is based on the car Stirling Moss raced to victory in the Silverstone International event in 1956.