Sporty 1930s Jaguar brings vintage glamour to the Lakes

A rare SS Jaguar 100 which epitomises 1930s speed and glamour has gone on show at the Lakeland Motor Museum.

The sporty two-seater was first manufactured in 1937 and fewer than 200 vehicles were ever made. In its day, the SS Jaguar 100 reached speeds of 100 mph - exceptionally fast in the 1930s, when many vehicles struggled to sustain 50mph.

The car has been loaned to the Motor Museum by a Manchester couple with a strong affinity to the Lake District, after more than 60 years in continuous ownership.

This particular car was tested by the Motor Magazine in May 1937, then by Autocar in July. It also completed the 1937 RAC rally, helping to win the manufacturer’s team prize.

Originally marketed for its ‘accurate steering and safety at speed’, the car’s very low centre of gravity meant it was less likely to overturn by cornering at high speed.

Chris Lowe, Manager at the Lakeland Motor Museum, says, “Many people regard the SS Jaguar 100 as one of the most eye-catching Jaguar cars ever made – it is certainly one of the rarest. It’s always a pleasure to receive such prestigious cars on long-term loan, helping us to continuously refresh the vehicles on show at the Museum.”