Vehicle Description
The 1948 London Motor Show was a momentous occasion for Sir William
Lyons and his newly re-named Jaguar Cars. The London show was
famously the event where the world first saw the sensational new
XK120 sports car, with its sublime feline styling and exotic
twin-cam engine. Sharing the stand, and the limelight, was Jaguar's
latest saloon model, the Mark V. While it was somewhat in the
shadow of the XK120 at the Motor Show, the new Mark V had its own
distinctions. The Mark V was the first all-new Jaguar model since
the end of World War II. Since it beat the XK120 to production, it
was also the first Jaguar to feature hydraulic brakes, independent
front suspension, and pressed steel wheels. For the anoraks among
us, the Mk V was the first production car to use sealed ball-joints
in the front end, a design featured in virtually every mass-market
vehicle since. The elegantly styled Mark V retained a touch of
traditional English formality inspired by the pre-war models, and
buyers had the choice of either a closed four-door saloon or the
equally handsome open two-door drophead-coupe. Power came from
either a 2 �-litre or 3 �-litre single-cam pushrod inline
six-cylinder engine, derived from a Standard unit used in the Mk IV
and pre-war SS models. Despite all of its milestones, the Mark V
was produced for just 28 months, barely topping 10,000 units before
the XK-powered Mk VII replaced it (Jaguar skipped over "Mk VI"
because of its use by Bentley). Collectors covet these rare and
beautiful Jaguars for their elegant baroque styling, luxurious
accommodations, and delicate balance of sporting performance with
long-distance touring comfort. In powerful 3 �-litre form, the
luxurious Mark V Drophead was akin to an XK120 for the family man.
This lovely Mark V 3-position drophead is a desirable 3 �-litre
model, presented with a well-maintained older restoration, finished
in its original color scheme of black over red upholstery.
According to the Jaguar Heritage Certificate, this car left the
Jaguar works in Coventry on October 10, 1950, destined for James L
Cooke Motors of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In 1959, Mr. Harold
Allsop of Willowdale, Ontario, purchased this car to accompany his
two-seat Cord. Later, he began to restore the Jaguar, but when it
took time away from his Cord, he set the MkV aside. Finally, when
he retired at age 70, Harold revived the Jaguar project, and poured
a great deal of time and energy into its restoration. The drophead
since changed hands since the Allsops restored it, and as offered
today, it is nicely presented with good black paintwork displaying
some minor imperfections from age and occasional use. Black rear
wheel spats and the low, wide stance give it a distinctly sporting
and purposeful appearance. Body fit is very good, and the car is
detailed with a mix of restored and excellent original chrome, with
period-correct touches, including a leaper mascot and twin fog
lamps. Opening the bottom-hinged boot lid reveals a capacious
luggage compartment and the extensive factory tool kit, which is
complete minus one wrench. The cabin is restored to original
specification, using high quality red hides and wool carpet sourced
from England. The leather remains quite supple and attractive with
just a touch of broken-in character on the seating surfaces. Wilton
wool carpets are similarly excellent, and the only deviation from
standard is the tan canvas soft top in place of the original black.
Restored Smiths gauges sit in the central instrument panel, which
is finished in a burl walnut veneer. The lacquer finish on the wood
shows some lifting and patina in places, but is in good condition
otherwise. Under the bonnet is a correct specification 3 �-litre
OHV inline-six with twin SU carburetors. It features the correct
air cleaner and aluminum plenum, and the presentation is tidy, with
authentic detailing and many period-correct fittings. The engine
pairs with a four-speed manual gearbox with floor-mounted
gearshift, enhancing the sporting, purposeful character. This is an
appealing example of the most desirable Mark V Jaguar variant,
restored for the personal enjoyment of the family that loved it for
54 years, and now offered with an inviting character that
encourages continued use. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6901-1951-jaguar-mkv-drophead-coupe/