*Vendor Supplied Images*
Highlights
- Beautifully crafted two-door drophead coupé
- One of a kind build
- Hydraulically operated convertible hood
- Expertly crafted, extremely clean inside and out
- All European import tax has already been paid
The Appeal
Jaguar never produced a two-door drophead coupé version of the Mk VII, but that didn’t stop one man who wanted one. He decided that this omission really ought to be put right, so he set about designing, crafting, sculpting and engineering the utterly intoxicating motorcar we see here.
But do not be put off by the fact that this car was created by an ‘enthusiast’. The chap who built this stunning drophead coupé has really done the world a disservice by not devoting more of his time to creating beautiful machines such as this one. The lines flow as naturally as if they had been drawn by William Lyons himself, and the finish of the bodywork, fittings and paint is truly delectable.
So if you’re in the market for a unique example of a capable Jaguar, which could easily be used for touring continents, or simply admired on your driveway — or preferably in your own personal art gallery — then you won’t want to miss this Mk VII.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 15th December 1952
- Road Tax and MOT exempt
- UK V5C
- Non transferable registration mark
- First registered in the UK in June 2022
- Heritage certificate on file
- Originally sold via a dealer in Los Angeles
- One of the first Jaguar Mk VIIs to be fitted with the Borg Warner automatic gearbox
- Operating, Maintenance and Service Handbook
- MK7 CHASSIS book
The Interior
- Elegantly fitted interior
- Front seat adapted for rear passenger access
- Hydraulically operated convertible roof
The defining feature of this Jaguar’s interior is its front seat, or rather ‘seats’, as it was originally a bench seat which has been cloven in twain in order to allow rear passengers easy entry and exit. The finish is superb, having been reupholstered in the car’s original shade of Suede Green leather, using high quality hides.
The extended doors feature elongated cappings, crafted by a skilled cabinet maker, and the carpets have been replaced with new fitted pieces. To the rear, the boot is spaciously proportioned, even with space set aside for the hood when lowered. It is fully fitted and features a full size spare wheel under the boot floor.
The driver is presented with a highly polished burr walnut veneer dashboard, which bristles with switches, dials and instruments. We particularly like the discreetly hidden compartments in bottoms of the doors containing neatly stowed tools and spares.
The Exterior
- Body-off-chassis restoration completed
- Unique, beautifully crafted body fitted
- Carefully crafted to give the impression of a ‘period correct’ conversion
The sweeping lines of this one-off Jaguar’s silhouette flow effortlessly from front to rear as it glides along the road. Its proportions are just right, and certainly look like they could have been penned on the drawing boards of the Jaguar works.
During the car’s restoration, the body was removed from the chassis, which was then sandblasted and repainted. As such, it is presented in excellent condition, with no corrosion or damage to be seen.
The body was hand built to exacting standards, and the end result is an artful symphony of flowing steel, chrome and glass. Of course, its pièce de resistance is the drophead roof, which is hydraulically operated. It stows neatly when lowered and provides excellent weather protection when raised, and the fabric itself appears to be very smartly presented.
In order to produce correctly proportioned doors, parts of a set of Mk VII rear doors were grafted onto the front doors, allowing a wider opening for rear passengers to enter easily.
The paintwork is beautifully finished in Aston Martin Racing green, and this is accentuated by highly polished chrome plated trim pieces throughout.
The Mechanics
- 3.4-litre straight-six XK engine
- Original three-speed automatic transmission replaced with a four-speed
- Beautifully presented engine bay and running gear
Nestled under the bonnet of this Mk VII is its superbly engineered 3.4-litre XK engine. It glistens as the light dances on its polished aluminium camshaft covers, and there is hardly a spec of dirt to be seen anywhere.
The car benefits from a ZF four-speed automatic transmission being fitted in place of its original three-speed Borg Warner unit. The ZF ‘box is said to kick down sooner, making more of the engines 160bhp.
Clearly this Jaguar has been very well prepared, and it’s a real pleasure to look at such a clean car. This is especially true underneath where all the running gear is spotless, the leather spring gaiters are neatly stitched, and the nuts, bolts and fastenings are free from any hint of corrosion.
Summary
Here we have a rare beast, not only because it is a one-off, but because it is an example of the absolute pinnacle of amateur craftsmanship. The gentleman who built this motorcar is clearly a rare combination of extremely talented artist and supremely competent engineer. The next custodian of this Mk VII will certainly be acquiring an unrepeatable piece of automotive ‘what could have been’.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Shipping and transfer
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].
