Description:

When it was launched in 1955, the MK I was the brand's first model with self-supporting bodywork instead of a ladder frame with a pontoon body, as was common for most vehicles at the time. In 1957, the desire for a more powerful engine, especially on the part of American dealers, was fulfilled. The USA was the most important sales market for Jaguar, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. The saloon therefore received the 3.4-litre straight-six engine, which was taken over unchanged from the XK140. With 210 hp, the car was probably the fastest 4-door saloon of its time. The vehicle was also designed to be correspondingly sporty. There were Dunlop disc brakes on all 4 wheels, independent suspension with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers at the front and a modified version of the rear axle of the Le Mans winner D-Type. The latter component made the car very stable at high speeds, not least because of the track, which is narrower at the rear than at the front. On the race track, the car also established itself as the favourite in its class. Prominent drivers such as Mike Hawthorn, Stirling Moss, Roy Salvadori and Jack Sears sat behind the wheel of an MK I in touring car and saloon races.

This MK I 3.4 was delivered by Jaguar Land Rover North America in autumn 1957. It still bears its original colour and the engine number also ‘matches’ the chassis number. The vehicle was extensively rebuilt by us in 2023 in the style of the touring racing cars of the time. The engine was completely overhauled and rebuilt with various racing parts from Rob Beere Racing, including H-connecting rods, forged pistons, Piper camshafts, larger ducts, electronic 123 ignition and more. Three Weber 45 DCOE twin carburettors have been fitted for proper ventilation. There is also a Hayword & Scott chrome steel exhaust system with manifolds, WOSP starter and alternator and an aluminium radiator. Some changes were also made to the suspension and transmission to match the radically increased power. A fully synchronised XJ6 gearbox was installed. We replaced the rear axle with that of an MK 2 with a limited slip differential. Furthermore, all bushes were replaced with Superflex polyurethane parts. Koni sports shock absorbers and a rigid anti-roll bar ensure good road holding. The competition wire wheels and Avon racing tyres are also new. The car's wiring harness is new and all instruments have been extensively overhauled. This is not a complete list of the work carried out, this is just a list of the most important key data. In conclusion, it can be said that virtually the entire mechanical system has been overhauled. Of course, the documentation of the revisions and conversions is available. A very fast and classic sports saloon from the 1950s, perfect for racing/rallying and sporty trips. A one-off for enthusiasts, turn-key ready with fresh MOT.

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