PPE101 Jaguar XK120
The Historic Norton & Sons Car
Originally owned by Walter Grant-Norton, the great-grandson of our founder and previous Managing Director, PPE101, a 1951 Jaguar XK120, returns to its tailoring home on Savile Row for Concours 2024.
In 2021 Simon Tasker, a classic car enthusiast based in Hampshire, acquired the car and pieced together her remarkable and rich history, including the story of the original owner’s family, who founded Norton and Sons in 1821.
Widely acknowledged to have completed more competition mileage than any other Jaguar, cumulating over 40,000 miles in major events, PPE101 made its name for itself during the golden years of continental rallying - alongside Grant-Norton, the Jaguar competed with distinction in the 1951, 1952, and 1953 Alpine Rallies and won the team prize for Jaguar 1953 at the RAC Rally.
Walter ran the family firm, Norton & Sons, for many years. After retiring in the 1970s, he continued rallying but sold his Jaguar in 1953, initiating a chain of 7 other owners.
As part of Savile Row Concours, Norton & Sons are hosting an exhibition looking into the rallying scene that shaped the history of PPE101 during these historic years. On display will show exclusive archive photography shared by Simon who has been researching the in-depth past of the car.
With the backing of Norton & Sons, PPE101 will take part in the Mille Miglia this summer - marking the next chapter in her great and historic career after 73 years.
In case you’ve not heard of it, the Mille Miglia is one of the largest classic car races in the world, touring 1000 miles around the scenic landscapes of northern Italy. Norton & Sons are proud to be re-partnering with PPE101 in designing the racing gear for the driving team to wear on their adventures round the Italian countryside.
The collection comprises racer jumpsuits, aviator jackets and safari jackets, all made entirely in-house by our team. Each piece features embroidery and patches, specially designed inspired by PPE’s heritage with alpine racing.
Our new, limited edition, racer jackets are now available for preorder. For more information please contact enquiries@nortonandsons.co.uk