Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Rare early Mk V DHC
- Retrimmed tan leather interior
- Well presented black coachwork
- Desirable 3.5L 125bhp model with Moss box
- Enthusiast owned USA car, now UK registered
The Appeal
Visitors to Jaguar’s 1948 London Motor Show stand must have been at least slightly confused. Alongside the sleek, modern and thoroughly aerodynamic new XK120 was the firm’s new 4 seat sports saloon and convertible: the Mark Five. Where the XK was long and low, the MK V was much more conventional, exuding a reassuring pre-war style with a typical touch of Jaguar class.
History will subsequently favour the XK120 in our memories, but at the time it was the Mk V that was much more popular. After all, here was a luxury car at a decent price that offered a sense of solidity and timelessness in an era of uncertainty. Where the XK used Jaguar’s new XK engine, the MK V continued the Standard-sourced OHV straight six in 2.5litre and 125bhp 3.5litre displacements.
The saloon sold well but only 577 LHD DHCs were built. Chassis records indicate that this is car number 68, built in 1950. It has clearly spent much time in the USA - there are some enthusiast badge bars to peruse in the photographs - and arrives here in smart, presentable condition with a retrimmed interior.
The MK V DHC is rare and statesmanlike. This one is a timely reminder why we should revere these lovely vintage cars.
The History and Paperwork
- Chassis records show the car was factory built in 1950
- This appears to be car number 68 of the 577 LDH DHC 3.5litre cars built
- Chassis 6 prefix indicates it left the factory as a genuine 3.5litre model
- Various bar badges indicate a life in North America, where it formed part of a large static collection
- Recently imported to and registered in the UK
- Reg number WXS 899
The Condition
- Tidy black paintwork in good order with only minor marks to note in photographs
- Beige DHC factory roof arrangement with two-stage roll back settings
- Chromework presents as bright and well finished with straight bumpers
- Whitewall tyres in good, clean order showing plenty of tread
- Cruciform braced factory chassis in generally good condition
- There is surface rust and some localised issues to note on underside
- Underside displays some new bolts and washers indicating recent work
- Boot area shows some scuffs to trim and inner boot trim
- Tan leather interior appears to have been retrimmed and retains protective front seat covers
- Door cards have also apparently been retrimmed
- Unmodified and well detailed interior including smart wood veneers
- Cabin shows minor deterioration to veneers but not immediately obvious
- Retrimmed carpets in good order with quality finish
- Stylised Smiths dials and factory four spoke Bakelite steering wheel
- Badge bar with decals from North American Jaguar clubs
The Mechanics
- 3,485cc ‘Standard’ OHV straight six 125bhp engine
- 4spd Moss manual gearbox
- All round hydraulic brakes
- Twin SU carburettors
- Independent front suspension
- No reported running or driving issues
- Recently imported after having formed part of a large static collection, so some recommissioning should be anticipated
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✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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