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2010 Shannons Melbourne Winter Classic Auction
Lot
9

1956 Jaguar MkVIII Saloon

$11,500

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 6-cylinder, 3442cc
Gearbox 3-Speed Automatic
Body Work Saloon
Colour White/Maroon
Interior Tan
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

Rarest of the Big Cats from the Fifties, the Mark VIII was introduced in October 1956 and just 6,247 were built before the Mark IX took over in December 1959. The Mark VIII was essentially a modernised Mark VII - the graceful lines now had a new radiator grille, the leaping Jaguar mascot, one-piece windscreen, cutaway rear spats and chrome side-trim differentiated the new model. Inside there was a more luxurious interior with new, sculpted seats with drop-down picnic tables for rear seat passengers. Under the bonnet, the venerable XK engine received the B-type cylinder head to give a healthy 210bhp along with a new dual exhaust system and, although large by European standards, the Mark VIII was no slouch. Most were built with automatic transmissions - a concession to the American market - and now came with an innovative Speed Hold switch on the dash. Today, the Mark VIII is a graceful reminder of an altogether more stylish era of motoring and an eminently practical, not to mention affordable, classic Jaguar saloon.