1950 Jaguar MkV 3.5 Saloon

Description

Launched alongside the XK120 at the 1948 London Motor Show, Jaguar's large new saloon, designated the Mark V, was a traditional design utilising the overhead-valve in-line six-cylinder inherited from the pre-war SS. The Mark V had a new box-section chassis design, with independent front suspension using a torsion bar and double wishbones. Another big advance was the adoption of Girling hydraulic brakes, and the car was sold in both 2.5-litre and 3.5-litre versions. The Mark V was marginally restyled from the previous model, with a more raked windscreen, thinner pillars and rear spats all contributing to the stylish lines and it was offered in both saloon and drophead form. There was still plenty of chrome, particularly around the grille, and the leaping cat mascot was a popular option. The standard wheel was a 16-inch steel disc, but wires are often fitted to improve the appearance today. The Motor magazine recorded the stately time of 20.4 seconds for 0-60 mph and a top speed of just over 90 mph. A total of 7814 Mark V Saloons were built between 1948 and 1951 with the 3.5-litre engine and relatively few of these survive today. The Mark V Jaguars are ideal club cars, with plenty of room for friends and family, or the perfect classic wedding vehicle.