1958 Jaguar MK1 3.4 Manual SE Saloon
Result: PASSED IN
Specifications
| Engine | 3.4 litre in-line six-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | Four-speed manual (with overdrive) |
| Body Work | Saloon |
| Colour | Cotswold Blue |
| Interior | Grey |
| Trim | Leather |
| Wheels | Factory Wire-spoked |
| Brakes | Disc/disc |
Description
Complementing the sporting XK and luxurious Mark VII models, Jaguar began the development of a new range of compact sports saloons in the early 1950s, becoming the first car built at Browns Lane to use monocoque construction. With fluid, aerodynamic styling (accentuated by the rear wheel spats normally fitted), the new model was unmistakably a Jaguar, the ‘Leaping Cat’ mascot sitting proudly above the grille. Using a de-stroked version of the engine that powered the C-type and D-type to multiple Le Mans victories, the Jaguar employed independent front suspension via coil springs and wishbones, while the live rear axle was located by a Panhard rod, radius arms and semi-elliptic leaf springs. Girling shock absorbers and Lockheed drum brakes were fitted all round. The original 2.4-litre model, launched at the 1955 Motor Show, was followed by the 3.4-litre aimed primarily at the US market in February 1957. By this stage the long list of available options included a Laycock de Normanville overdrive, close ratio gears, Borg-Warner automatic transmission, disc brakes, stiffer dampers and a high-ratio steering box. The 2.4-litre and 3.4-litre Jaguars successfully established a niche market for a sporty, stylish four-door saloon with features typically found on much larger luxury automobiles. Retrospectively termed the Mark I, these cars set new sales records for Jaguar and a great many were exported, including a fair number to Australia.
