1958 Jaguar Mk I

The 2.4 Litre Saloon – which became more commonly known as the MK1 – was launched with great fanfare in 1956. This all new, lightweight, compact saloon was revolutionary , embodying ‘all the highly specialised technical knowledge and engineering achievement that have gained for the name of Jaguar the highest international repute’ (according to Jaguar’s technical brochure, upon its launch).

It’s worth remembering that Jaguar were, at this point, at the very top of their game. Both the C and D-Type had achieved huge success at the very highest levels of motorsport, and the substantial investment in the Competition Department and their racing programme was filtered through to the whole technical development team.

The 3.4 Litre engine was added to the range shortly afterwards, raising the top speed to 120mph, which was quite an achievement for what was supposed to be the baby saloon of the family.

Pendine had been looking for a MK1 as an events car, with the aim of building a homage to a Competition Department car. The criteria was very specific; it had to be largely unrestored (so we didn’t have to undo other people’s poor work), it must be a wire wheel, disc brake, overdrive example and it had to be a decent colour combination. We spent about three years looking and we eventually, and unexpectedly, found this example on Bring A Trailer, conveniently located in California. The history was good – only two owners from new, living within 50 miles of its first home its entire life.

Imported in 2020, we were absolutely delighted with the car that arrived. Almost completely original paint, original wood and leather trim, the body had never been welded, with original door seals for the perfect close. We put the project on hold until 2023 (Covid restricting the fun), and then instructed Guy Broad to complete the work.

It was a full mechanical rebuild. The engine came out and was completely stripped, before being sent off to Chesmans Engineering. Interestingly, not only were the head and block correctly stamped, but also the crank and flywheel, showing just how super original the whole car was. The engine was rebuilt with a balanced crank, 9-1 Hepolite pistons, lightened 4.2 E-Type flywheel, D-Type cams, electronic ignition, high-torque starter and large carburettors.

The suspension was polybushed, and a Vicarage heavy-duty front anti-roll bar fitted. The brakes were already Fossway callipers on the front, and MK9 callipers were fitted on the rear, with greenstuff pads fitted all round. The gearbox was rebuilt, as was the overdrive, and the front wiring loom renewed. The seats were sympathetically repaired, and a Competition Dept style drivers bucket seat fitted, finished in period correct Bedford Cord.

This is by no means an extensive list, but covers the essentials. Over £50,000 was spent. Completed in the summer of 2023, it was immediately pushed into service. From attending the Hawthorn MK1 day at Goodwood, to a track day in Anglesey, to a rally in France. We did 1000s of shake down miles. All of the restoration and the events are photographically documented.

We were approached by the current owner at the beginning of 2024, looking for the best MK1 or MK2 he could find. A friend of ours had suggested this MK1 to him, and we reluctantly parted with it knowing it was going to a good home. Sadly (and also fortunately) his circumstances have changed, and this fantastic MK1, which is very dear to our hearts, is available again. By no means the cheapest MK1 available, it is however unquestionably the best specification and coolest. Come and have a drive. You’ll love it.