Beschreibung:

3,485cc OHV Inline 6-Cylinder Engine 2 SU Carburetors 125bhp at 4,200rpm 4-Speed Manual Transmission Leaf Spring Suspension 4-Wheel Drum Brakes *Superb, Concours-quality restoration performed *Factory left-hand-drive example, delivered new to New York *Eligible for prominent Concours d'Elegance events around the world *Offered with Jaguar-issued Heritage Trust Certificate THE JAGUAR MK IV The name 'Jaguar' was first used by SS Cars Ltd in 1936 to denote its new high-performance sports model, the SS100; company founder William Lyons later recalled: 'I immediately pounced on Jaguar as it had an exciting sound to me.' 'Jaguar' would be adopted as the marque name in March 1945, 'SS' having by then acquired a somewhat tarnished reputation and when like the majority of Britain's motor manufacturers, they commenced post-war production with a range of pre-war designs, albeit with some minor improvements. Essentially stopgap models pending the arrival of an entirely new generation of Jaguars, these comprised the compact 1½-Liter and the 2½/3½-Liter model, retrospectively known as the 'Mark IV', which still enjoyed an enviable reputation for strong performance, good road manners and well-appointed interiors. Built on a generous 120" (3,048mm) wheelbase, the Mark IV retained a separate chassis featuring beam front and live rear axle suspension on semi-elliptic springs, lever-arm dampers, Burman worm-and-nut steering and Girling mechanical brakes. The stylish all-steel coachwork was available in saloon or drophead coupé forms and featured the kind of luxurious and well-appointed interior that would become a Jaguar hallmark. Used by SS Cars since 1934, the engine was Standard's rugged seven-bearing six which in Jaguar specification was fitted with a Weslake overhead-valve cylinder head and coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox; in 3½-liter form capable of propelling the sturdy Mark IV to over 95mph. At the top of the Mark IV range was the decidedly voluptuous 3½-Liter Drophead Coupe, a full five-seater that boasted an ingenious three-position hood giving occupants the choice of open, closed or Coupe de ville motoring. Utilizing the same all-steel body construction as its late 1930s SS Jaguar forebear, the newcomer appeared even more svelte thanks to a revised hypoid bevel rear axle that allowed the floor to be lowered by two inches. THE MOTORCAR OFFERED According to the Jaguar-issued Heritage Trust Certificate on file, this top-of-the-line 3 ½ Liter Mk IV Drophead Coupe was completed at the Jaguar Works on May 21, 1948, and sent directly to the USA in June of 1948, as a factory left hand drive example. As with many Jaguars arriving on our shores, it was retailed through Hoffman of New York to its original purchaser, a Mr. Harvey Kent. The exterior was painted black, interior trimmed in a Pigskin color and convertible top finished in French Grey. The Mk IV Drophead Coupe would go on to live in the United States for decades, ending up back in the U.K. around the mid-2000s, where it would undergo an impressive nut-and-bolt restoration. During the restoration, the charming and very suitable Grey Metallic exterior color was chosen, with stunning Burgundy leather trim and rugs, and a black convertible top. Superb chrome and brightwork, and a detailed engine compartment reveal the high level of restoration work performed. Although of the original type, it should be noted that the engine appears to have been replaced in the past. So many elegant styling treatments catch one's eye during a close inspection - from the hand crank adjustable windscreen, ornately finished boot/trunk area with boot lid enclosed tool chest, each handle and latch throughout including the adjustable driver's seat lift, and the stunningly finished cockpit with wood grain from the glove boxes to the dash fascia. Photos on file of the undercarriage reveals an equally well-detailed chassis and running gear. Now back in the States as of a few years ago, the Mk IV has seen litt