1938 SS Cars SS 100 Roadster

The Jaguar SS100 is a two-seat sports car built between 1936 and 1940 by SS Cars Ltd. of Coventry, England. The Model 100 name reflected the 3.5-liter Model's ability to exceed 100 mph, an unheard of speed for a production vehicle at that time. Because of this performance, an animal name was suggested; once approved by founder Sir William Lyons, the name 'Jaguar' was given to their new sedan in 1936, and from that point forward to all their cars.

The chassis has a wheelbase of 8 feet, 8 inches, a shortened version of their more common 2.5-liter sedan. Suspension is semi-elliptical leaf springs all round with rigid axles; tires are 5.5 inches on 18-inch wheels and brakes are Girling. The engine is a straight six-cylinder model developed from an older 2.5-liter unit, featuring a modern cylinder head with overhead valves and an output of 100 horsepower. Twin SU carburetors were bolted directly to the cylinder head. In 1938 the displacement increased to 3.5-liters and power to 125 horsepower. The four-speed gearbox has synchromesh on the top three ratios.

Widely considered one of the most beautiful Jaguars, it is also quite rare, with just 198 of the 2.5-liter and 112 of the 3.5-liter models made. Only 49 were exported. This particular car made its way to the United States in 1960 and saw a variety of owners until its current owner acquired it in 1988. Originally delivered in Gunmetal Gray, it was refinished in British Racing Green. It has taken first place in a number of notable Concours d'Elegance.