1950 Jaguar Mark V

Jaguars stand at the 1948 London Motor Show marked several significant milestones for Sir William Lyons relatively young car company. While the headlines inevitably touted the sensational new XK120 sports car, Jaguars latest saloon, the Mark V was also worthy of admiration. While somewhat in the shadows of its sporty sibling, the Mark V was nevertheless a sophisticated, attractive, and important addition to the Jaguar lineup. Since it beat the XK120 to production, the Mark V was the first all-new Jaguar since the end of World War II. It became the first Jaguar to feature hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension with wishbones and torsion bars, pressed steel wheels, and the first ever production car to use sealed ball-joints in the front end; a design that would be adopted by virtually every major auto manufacturer since. The elegant body retained a dose of traditional English formality inspired by the pre-war Mk IV, and buyers had a choice of either a closed saloon or open drophead-coupe. Power came from either a 2 -litre or 3 -litre single-cam OHV inline six-cylinder engine, derived from the Standard unit fitted to the Mk IV and SS100. The Mark V remained in production for just 28 months, with just slightly more than 10,000 units built before the updated, XK-powered Mk VII replaced it (skipping Mk VI due to its use by Bentley). Collectors covet these rare and beautiful Jaguars for their swoopy baroque styling, luxurious accommodation, and sporty road manners. Particularly in 3 -litre form, they return excellent performance and in many ways are akin to a poor mans Bentley Mk VI.

This handsome Jaguar Mk V Saloon is a desirable 3 -litre example, smartly presented in Old English White over Oxblood red upholstery, and nicely presented for rallies and touring enjoyment. The subject of a high-quality older restoration, it is a very attractive car that has been well-maintained by its prior collector-owner. The classic off-white shade suits the saloons elegant lines and character, and this car boasts excellent quality fit and finish levels. It rides on the proper stamped steel wheels adorned with factory wheel covers, mounted with black wall tires for a purposeful and sporty look. Chrome and brightwork are in excellent order all around, and the car wears correct Lucas Tripod headlamps, Lucas auxiliary fog lamps, and the iconic leaper radiator mascot.

The interior is beautifully inviting, finished in red upholstery with matching carpets and extensive woodwork. The seats and door cards are excellent, displaying very little signs of wear, and the backrests are gently bolstered for spirited driving. A mix of Smiths and Lucas dials sit in the central instrument panel, surrounded by factory switchgear and a Smiths Radiomobile radio. The woodwork shows a consistent overall patina, with some cracking in the finish and minor delamination in places, but is otherwise glossy and attractive, lending a rich and honest character to the cabin. This car is equipped with a factory sliding sunroof, and it retains the marvelous factory tool kit, cleverly integrated in the boot lid. It is also furnished with the owners handbook and factory service manuals.

Beneath the bonnet sits the 3,485cc OHV inline-six, which is mated to a four-speed manual Moss gearbox. The engine compartment is tidy with an authentic overall look, showing signs of regular use on the finishes and fittings. Twin S.U. carburetors are fitted with a correct inlet plenum and air filter canister, and the engine is topped with a polished alloy valve cover.

The Mk V is stylish, boasts a luxurious interior with practical storage space, has robust underpinnings, and excellent performance for the era, making this an excellent mount for rallies, club events, and tours. Saloons rarely come as nice as this wonderful example, which has reportedly been enjoyed with vigor by its previous custodians and is now ready to take on whatever challenges its next owner can throw at it.

Offers welcome and trades considered.