1955 Jaguar MkVIIM Saloon
Chassis no. 739422DN
Engine no. N1425-8

Work on Jaguar's advanced new saloon had been interrupted by the war, and in 1948 elements of the proposed newcomer made their first appearance in other models: the twin-overhead-camshaft engine in the XK120 sports car, and the chassis design in the interim MkV saloon. It was not until 1950 that the two were combined in the MkVII. A considerable improvement on what had gone before, the cruciform-braced chassis featured torsion-bar independent front suspension and all-round hydraulic brakes. The 3.4-litre 'six' had already demonstrated its prowess in the XK120 and proved capable of propelling the MkVII's not inconsiderable bulk past 100mph. Priced at a mere 40% of its Bentley MkVI rival but available at first only for export, the MkVII was a big hit in the USA, that market's demands prompting the introduction of an automatic transmission option in 1953. Two years later the model was revised as the MkVIIM, with maximum power increased from 160 to 190bhp. Slightly more than 10,000 MkVIIs had been produced by the time the MkVIII arrived in 1956. In terms of production numbers, a left-hand drive, manual transmission MkVIIM, like that offered here, is one of the rarest variants of this model. The Jaguar was exported to the USA in 1955 and returned some 12 months ago to form part of a large classic car collection. It has remained un-restored and is in exceptionally original, complete and untouched condition. We are advised that the chassis is excellent while the door shuts' line and fit epitomise the quality that Jaguar Cars produced at the time. The body is sound but does, as one would expect, require a degree of localised repair. The engine is original but has had a replacement cylinder head at some time in its life. The colour appears to have been grey originally, while the red interior is still intact. A wonderful opportunity to acquire a totally unmolested and rare manual MkVII for restoration at a most affordable price. The car comes with a State of Virginia Title and HM Customs & Excise Form C386 confirming that all import duties have been paid. No reserve.