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Welcome to Xclusively Jaguar For all things Jaguar - Across the globe |
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January 2011
Volume 3 - Issue 6
Cover picture: Kenneth and Annika Andersson's XK8
dealing with "proper" snow in Sweden !!!
JOINT HONORARY PATRONS
Norman Dewis & Win Percy
Welcome to the January 2011 issue of Xclusively Jaguar News, and a Happy New Year to everybody reading this!........... With preparations for the busy holiday season in full swing during December, I had expected Jaguar related news to be fairly scant and a "lightweight" edition of Xclusively Jaguar News to start off the new year, to be the consequence of this. How wrong I was! First of all, heavy snow resulted in a spate of pictures of snow covered Jaguars being sent to me, followed by Nick Caves unfortunate confrontation with a speed camera, then the very sad news of the death of Tom Walkinshaw, and finally, news of the 50th anniversary E-type tour, to lift the spirits and give us something to plan for in the new year!
The cover picture this month, is one of those which was sent to me, for consideration as a Christmas card. Last year, I concentrated on introducing a yearly calendar and this year I hope to start a Christmas card collection using the pictures I have been sent of Jaguars in the snow. If you have any nice pictures of your Jaguar in the snow, I am still collecting them for cards and inclusion in the newsletter.
Here is a selection of the pictures sent in this year, and last year
Some of these I hope to use as Christmas cards, and yet more, still unseen,
may be featured as cards or in a future issue of Xclusively Jaguar News.
 Brucie had to brave the snow, while Swallow had the garage! (He was not impressed!) |
 One of Barry Wilkinsons X300s got caught out in the bad weather - but which one? |
 Callum Pattullo's XJS in Scotland |
 Tiggy ventured out in last winters snow! |
 Esta-jane took these pictures of KUH last year |
 Chistopher Dixon's XJR |
 Keith Bakers XJS with the hood down - is he mad? |
 Mick Beans XJ40 3.2S in last winters snow |
 These two both belong to Paul Moffat .....taken last |
 Winter in Richmond, Virginia, USA |
 The Jenner Jaguar Collection, Cumbria 1 |
 The Jenner Jaguar Collection - Cumbria 2 |
 From Danil, XF's outside a Russian dealership! |
 Ronald Sandeman took this picture of his XJ-SC in Scotland, last winter. |
Obituary - Tom Walkinshaw
Monday 13th December 2010 brought the very sad news that Tom Walkinshaw had passed away the day before, after a 3 year battle with cancer. Tom's funeral was held in private and a Memorial Service will take place on 4th February 2011 at 12 noon in Gloucester Cathedral.
Tom Walkinshaw will be remembered for many things, but I feel that it is the Jaguars bearing the TWR, and later, Jaguarsport badges which will be the continuing living tribute to him, as these are the descendents of his racing cars and the lessons he learned from racing. Keeping them alive, is the best tribute we can pay him!
Win Percy said of Tom Walkinshaw -
......... yesterday's news of Tom Walkinshaw's passing away has really knocked me, I knew he was very unwell but really did not expect to receive such bad news. He was a friend, a boss and my longest racing co/driver totally responsible for getting me my Works Jaguar Drives, something I treasure!
Nick Cave and the Speed Camera!
Nick Cave is apparently famous for his hit single with Kylie Minogue - to me he is famous for successfully demolishing a speed camera with an XJ saloon! Although, like everyone else, I am pleased to see the end of the camera, I cannot condone the use of an XJ for such actions! It does however, add substantial credence to the item included in a previous issue of Xclusively Jaguar News, which stated that the X300 range is one of the safest cars on our roads - apparently, the X300 in question had hardly a scratch on it after demolishing the speed camera, and the driver walked away unharmed!
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Jaguar E-type 50th Anniversary TourIn March 2011, the iconic Jaguar E-type will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of its launch at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. In recognition of this momentous occasion, Jaguar Heritage has invited 50 E-type owners to participate in this exciting tour. |
Sunday 27th February 2011
The event starts at the historic Coombe Abbey Hotel with registration from 9.00am to 5.00pm. During the day there will be the opportunity to attend Race Retro at nearby Stoneleigh, the opening historic motor event of the year, or visit the Jaguar Heritage Museum at Browns Lane. In the evening, participants will have the chance to relax and get to know each other at a wonderful Civic Reception at the Coventry Transport Museum, home of one of the UK's finest collections of motor vehicles.
* If participants wish to arrive early we can arrange accommodation at the Coombe Abbey Hotel at participants' expense for the night of Saturday 26th February.
Monday 28th February 2011
The cars will depart from Coventry on the first leg of the route to the famous Castle Combe race circuit where there will be a chance to drive a few laps of the circuit before enjoying lunch. From Castle Combe the route will continue south over Salisbury Plain to Goodwood for a night at the Goodwood Park Hotel and dinner in Goodwood House, home of Lord March.
Tuesday 1st March 2011
A great start to the day, driving up the Goodwood Hillclimb and then on to the Goodwood Circuit for a few laps. The route then travels east across the beautiful South Downs to Folkestone to cross the Channel using Eurotunnel. From Calais the route will continue south to Reims, where there will be a Champagne reception and dinner at the famous Taittinger Champagne House.
Wednesday 2nd March 2011
The day will start with a lap of the historic Circuit de Gueux in Reims. Travelling at a more leisurely pace, the journey will follow a scenic route south towards Dijon, stopping off at the Dijon-Prenois Circuit. Here, there will be the opportunity for light refreshments and laps of the circuit, before continuing on to the beautiful Château de Chailly estate for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Thursday 3rd March 2011
The final leg of the journey to Geneva crosses the spectacular Haut-Jura mountain range on some very dramatic roads. On arrival at Geneva, lunch will be hosted at the Parc des Eaux-Vives - the location of the original Press Launch of the E-type. For the next two nights, participants will be able to relax and enjoy accommodation in the luxurious 5-star Hotel InterContinental. In the evening there will be the opportunity to visit the Geneva Motor Show providing a chance to see the very latest Jaguar products on the Jaguar stand. The rest of the evening will be free for participants to explore Geneva at their leisure.
Friday 4th March 2011
A change of transportation with a boat trip along Lake Geneva with lunch included. The finale of the event will be a spectacular Gala Dinner at the Hotel InterContinental. The dinner will be attended by a host of Jaguar personalities representing both the company's long and distinguished history and its bright and exciting future.
Saturday 5th March 2011
Participants will be free to return to the UK at leisure with their own flexible return booking with Eurotunnel. There will be an option to break the journey with an overnight stay at Reims at participants' own expense.
What is included:
- 6 nights bed and breakfast accommodation (double or twin rooms) in luxury hotels or private chateaux.
Note: a supplement will apply for single occupancy – please contact Jaguar Heritage for details. - Dinner for 5 nights (February 27th - Coventry Transport Museum, February 28th – Goodwood House ballroom, March 1st – Taittinger Champagne House, March 2nd – Château Chailly, March 4th – Hotel InterContinental Gala Dinner).
- Lunch on 3 days (February 28th – Castle Combe, March 3rd – Parc des Eaux-Vives, March 4th – On board during the Lake cruise).
- All circuit costs at Castle Combe, Goodwood and Dijon-Prenois (the circuit at Reims is on public roads).
- Route book, commemorative plaque and car decals (3 per car).
- Flexible return Channel crossing from Folkestone to Calais using Eurotunnel.
- Souvenir Jaguar jacket (for driver and passenger).
- All coach transfers to/from evening functions remote from hotels.
- Geneva Lake cruise on March 4th.
- Car parking at Hotel InterContinental in Geneva.
- Entry to the Geneva Motor Show on March 3rd.
- The services of a full technical support team.
- The services of a professional team at all the venues to assist with check-in/out, parking, luggage handling, concierge services and general support.
- Transportation of luggage (optional) between overnight stops.
What is not included:
- Motorway/Autoroute tolls.
- Equipment required for driving in Europe (Warning triangles, beam converters, high visibility jackets etc).
- Vehicle insurance - which needs to cover laps of private race circuits (Castle Combe, Goodwood and Dijon-Prenois). European vehicle recovery is also strongly recommended.
- Medical insurance.
- Incidental hotel expenses.
- All expenses incurred outside the core tour dates (February 27th – March 5th am).
- Any speeding or other fines incurred during the trip.
Cost per car (2 people): £4,550 - limited availability
For more information, please contact Tony O'keeffe at tokeeffe@jaguarlandrover.com
Download application form
Disclaimer:
Jaguar Heritage will make every endeavour to deliver the Tour programme as outlined above and on the Itinerary. However, we reserve the right to make changes to the Itinerary and activities if necessitated by circumstances beyond our control.
BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
The Concept
DESIGN PURITY– A celebration of 75 years of beautiful, fast Jaguars which points the way to a new design language. Entirely forward looking, the C-X75 marks three-quarters of a century of iconic Jaguar design. The simple tubular fuselage exterior shape of the C-X75 has been achieved without sacrificing aerodynamic efficiency
FUTURE FOCUS – The current XF, XK and XJ have already won plaudits for their design and the C-X75 points the way to an evolving future style language.
DESIGN-LED SOLUTIONS – An elegant demonstration of how Jaguar's core values – performance, design, luxury – will be delivered in the future.
| "Performance through innovation has always been a Jaguar hallmark. From the beginning, cars such as the C-Type and D-Type pioneered aluminium construction, aerodynamic design, racing monocoques and disc brakes. The C-X75 demonstrates that the company is still leading the field in automotive design and technology." |
Dr Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover
The C-X75 concept is both a celebration of 75 years of iconic Jaguar design and a look into the future of automotive technology. Designed as a range-extended electric two-seater supercar, it explores the outer limits of both performance and sustainability. With plug-in capability the car can achieve a zero tailpipe emissions range of 110km (68 miles) – three times round Paris's Péripherique – when running under battery power alone, plus a potential top speed of 330km/h (205mph) and blistering acceleration. The car demonstrates that it is possible to retain Jaguar's core values of performance, design and luxury using technology that will make environmentally responsible performance and electric vehicles a practical proposition.
The aim was to produce not only the most innovative but also one of the most beautiful Jaguars ever; one which hints at an exciting evolution of the marque's award-winning design language while paying homage to some of its most admired cars of years gone by. Advanced design features such as a ground-breaking propulsion system and active aerodynamics allow for an elegantly simple fuselage section that remains stable at very high speeds.
| "The C-X75 is a tribute to the people who shaped the iconic Jaguars that are revered to this day. By making it an innovative test-bed for the technologies of tomorrow, it also ensures that our reputation for engineering excellence will continue for another 75 years and beyond." |
Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars
75 Years of Jaguar Design
For 75 years, Jaguar has been responsible for some of the most iconic road and racing car designs ever seen. The roll call of names will be familiar to all: XK120, C-Type, D-Type, XJ13, E-Type, XJ220. To that list can now be added the C-X75, which celebrates three-quarters of a century of beautiful, fast Jaguars by being the fastest and perhaps most beautiful concept of them all.
Jaguar has an award-winning portfolio of designs in its current range of XK, XF and XJ models and the C-X75 reinforces the marque's design-led approach to product development. Created under the guidance of Design Director Ian Callum and Advanced Design Director Julian Thomson, the concept points the way towards an even more emotive design language which combines beautiful contemporary styling with world-class research and engineering.
| "The C-X75 is everything a Jaguar should be. It possesses remarkable poise and grace yet at the same time has the excitement and potency of a true supercar. You could argue this is as close to a pure art form as a concept car can get and we believe it is a worthy homage to 75 years of iconic Jaguar design." |
Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars
Aficionados will identify elements from Jaguars of the past in the C-X75 but the intention was not to look back but forward. The C-X75's designers stayed true to the long-held Jaguar design philosophy of natural, flowing lines and simple, elegant forms. Where inspiration from the past was found is in the innovative engineering and functional design elements of cars like the 1950s C-Type and D-Type racers and unique 1966 XJ13 Le Mans prototype – a car described by Callum as, "possibly the most beautiful Jaguar ever made".
Just as the XJ13 acted as a test-bed for a new engine, the C-X75 offers similarly positive and inspiring potential solutions to the challenges posed by environmental concerns. Performance cars have always aimed for efficiencies in terms of weight, agility and dynamics, all of which also benefit economy. Using previously unseen combinations of technology, the C-X75 supercar provides a glimpse into the future of Jaguar and its commitment to producing beautiful, fast cars powered by sustainable means.
C-X75 Technical Data
C-X75 Video
Another Jaguar app!
Launched on 23 November 2010
75 Years of Jaguar history goes live!
To mark the presentation of the stunning C-X75 at the Los Angeles Motor Show, Jaguar has launched an all-new iPad app that, like the supercar, celebrates three-quarters of a century of beautiful, fast cars.
Fittingly, the story begins with the fastest and possibly most beautiful Jaguar concept car ever, the 205mph hybrid C-X75. This latest in a long line of iconic Jaguars is brought to life in the app through the use of exclusive imagery, videos of it in action and interviews with the men behind it including Design Director Ian Callum and Head of Research Tony Harper.
Entirely forward-looking, the C-X75 has been informed by Jaguar's rich history of groundbreaking road and racing cars. The app leads users through the iconic designs behind the Jaguar legend and the passionate people that created them.
Beautiful newly commissioned photography of such famous cars as the C and D-Type racers, mighty Mk II and elegant E-Type are interspersed with heritage images, archive video and the stories of the men behind the marque.
The Jaguar 75 iPad app is available for free download from the iTunes store by searching for 'Jaguar 75 HD'. iPhone users can download their own version of the app exclusively designed for the smaller device.
courtesy of Jaguar Cars
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR TRAVEL RUGS
We have all been reminded of late, in the UK at least, of the harshness of Winter, and the prudence of going out properly prepared! One of the essentials to carry in your Jaguar during the cold Winter months, is a car rug, which may prove invaluable!
While any old blanket will do in any other car, you would expect to find something a bit more special resting on the back seat of a Jaguar, ready for use!
Xclusively Jaguar can now offer this beautiful 100% pure lambswool rug from Glen Prince, the UK's premiere supplier of wool and tartan. Measuring 190cm x 140cm with a 20cm Xclusively Jaguar logo embroidered in the top corner, it is a very worthwhile investment, which will give years of good service - just like a well kept Jaguar!
We have carefully chosen three colours to suit all body/trim combinations, and full purchasing details can be found by following the link from the image of the item.
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Here are other items currently available in the Xclusively Jaguar Collection. Full details by following the link from the image of the item.
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MORE FROM The Xclusively Jaguar Collection..........
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR CALENDAR 2011
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Limited Edition of 100 numbered copies! - A4 size
NOW HALF PRICE - £5 GBP inc P&P worldwide
A few remaining - first come first served!
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR MINIATURE E-TYPE!
| A half size model built as a tribute to the E-type! Designed for children but will fit 1 lucky adult! A fantastic toy for use under adult supervision! Each car takes in excess of 450 hours to lovingly hand-craft! Powered by 110cc petrol or electric motors, and capable of speeds up to 46mph! Built to your exact specification with any combination of interior and exterior colour. Not road legal Demonstration available by arrangement Only 4 available for April delivery - order now! |
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JAGUAR E-TYPE |
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Jaguar XJ is Top Gear Luxury Car of the Year 2010
Top Gear has named the Jaguar XJ as its Luxury Car of the Year 2010, placing the British firm's flagship model above rivals from BMW and Audi.
Writing in the most recent Awards Issue of Top Gear Magazine, Editor at Large Jason Barlow described the XJ as a "Blast from the future," adding "rarely has a new car slackened so many jaws."
The XJ is a landmark vehicle from a revitalised and more confident Jaguar. Since its launch in 2010, it has been extremely well received by customers and media alike and is fast becoming a multi-awarding winning model, having already scooped the Scottish Luxury Car of the Year and What Car? Luxury Green Car of the Year accolades.
"The Jaguar XJ brought a bold new approach to the luxury car market in the UK with its distinctive design, generous accommodation, exceptional performance and strong economy credentials," said Geoff Cousins, Managing Director, Jaguar UK.
"We're delighted that the Top Gear team - definitely one of the toughest judging panels anywhere in the motoring world - have recognised what makes the XJ so special with this award."
With its lightweight aluminum architecture, the XJ is the most efficient luxury car in its class. It has attained a 29 percent segment share during its first six months on sale, establishing itself as the British car of choice with customers ranging from company CEOs to high-end hotel chains.
Priced from £53,900 on the road, the Jaguar XJ is on-sale now at Jaguar dealerships throughout the UK.
"In the words of Ian Callum..........
 LOOK AT ME.... |
 ADMIRE ME..... |
 REMEMBER ME....!" |
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courtesy of Jaguar Cars
JEC Spring 2011 Seminar Programme
The JEC Spring 2011 Seminars will be held at Jaguar Cars Visitor Centre, Chester Road, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, from 9am to 5pm. Costs include handouts, morning coffee, comprehensive buffet lunch and afternoon tea.
For more information, or to book a place,
please contact Nigel Thorley on 01302 771818 or nigel.thorley@jec.org.uk
19th February 2011 - Jaguar E-type Seminar
Covers all models and variants from Series 1 3.8 through to Series 3 V12
Applicable to all owners, or prospective purchasers of E-types. The seminar will cover model development, buying, servicing, other care and maintenance, plus more in-depth body and mechanical issues.
| Costs: | £60 each (current JEC members) |
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| £80 each (non-members - £20 refund for joining on the day) | |
| £20 each (non-participating partners/drivers, refreshments only) |
28th February 2011 - Jaguar Interior Trim Seminar
Covers all Jaguars with hide upholstery
Applicable to anyone with an interest in car interior refurbishment. The seminar will cover cleaning, repairs and refurbishment with "hands on" experience and expert tuition from Furniture Clinic on your own upholstery. Minor repairs can also be carried out by them on the day, by prior arrangement.
| Costs: | £60 each (current JEC members) |
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| £80 each (non-members - £20 refund for joining on the day) | |
| £20 each (non-participating partners/drivers, refreshments only) |
19th March 2011 - Jaguar X350 Seminar
Covers all X350 (XJ6 and XJ8 saloons) from 2003 to 2009
Applicable to all owners, or prospective purchasers of petrol or diesel X350 aluminium saloons. The seminar will cover model development, buying, servicing, other care and maintenance, plus more in-depth body and mechanical issues.
| Costs: | £60 each (current JEC members) |
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| £80 each (non-members - £20 refund for joining on the day) | |
| £20 each (non-participating partners/drivers, refreshments only) |
Portsmouth Region Update
by Mike Kennedy, S-type Forum Co-ordinator and Hon Secretary of JEC Portsmouth Region,
The December meeting and all subsequent meetings will be held at The Churchillian, Portsdown Hill, Portsmouth, again on the second Monday of the month at 8.00pm.
Further details from Mike Kennedy 07974 131127 eagmarine@hotmail.co.uk
Designed in Faults!
Written and illustrated by Paul Hands
What I am about say is my opinion of what people should do, but they do not. That is, to think ahead when they are putting something together or designing a product like a kit car or new car. The main manufacturers design and build for the assembly line, to streamline production, but not with the mechanics and technicians who will have to work on the cars, in mind! Point in question is the air filter on the S-type diesel - it takes two to change it!
Another example is the way that kit car designers fit the rear diff unit from the Jaguar but do not think how you remove the brakes etc later down the road. This came home to me when we were asked to look at a Ronart kit car based on Jaguar components. The son of the builder asked us to sort out the rear brakes and an oil leak from the engine.
In order to rectify the oil leak we had to remove the sump, which meant you either remove the engine, or like us, take the decision to cut the chassis tube under the sump. Locically, the designer should have made this part bolt on, which would not have altered the strength of the chassis, but I think that it was easier and cheaper for them to make the chassis using welds!
The other job was the rear brakes, which were seized and had cracked the pads etc. To remove these parts we would have to take the rear of the car apart or try removing the diff unit. The cost for us to to do this every time the brakes needed attention would be crippling for the customer, so I suggested that we fit outboard brakes, as per the later cars and like we use on the race cars etc. I phoned Ronart and asked if they had done this type of conversion before. They said they had not and if we did it, could we please send them the details etc!
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Old drive shafts and brake parts removed |
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Closer inspection shows the poor state of the brake pads etc |
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N/S/R caliper after assembly of the new unit |
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N/S/R brake disc after assembly of the new unit |
We managed to remove the rear brakes by stripping out the drive shafts and splitting the calipers and then removing the output drive stub axle (allowing us to put on the bolts holding the calipers to it. We then fitted the later drive shafts and hubs, and made up brackets to which to attach the cables.
So to end my little soap box letter if you are considering building a kit car or any other project, try thinking about the future and don't forget to put grease etc on the nuts and bolts so that they won't go rusty and seize on!
If you are one of Pauls customers and would like to see your Jaguar in this space,
please send us a picture and details of work done.
Need help with a Jaguar problem? Then phone Paul outside normal working hours on 01494-711531, referring to Xclusively Jaguar, as he has very kindly offered his advice to anyone who reads Xclusively Jaguar News.
Hyper Register – do you own one or know someone who does?
Send a picture and lets see how many we can find!
View Hyper Register
Just a hint of what's on offer at SNG Barratt this Christmas!
E-type Front Wishbone
| SNG Barratt have reproduced the 'hard to find' E-type series one and two upper suspension wishbone arms. |  |
| These are brand new items made using Jaguar's original drawings, and are sold 'outright' so no exchange wishbones are required. |  |
| The arm comes complete with a newly developed top ball joint assembly which needs no adjustment throughout its life, |  |
| .......thus dispensing with the fiddly spring and shims of the original. |  |
Carbon Fibre Trim Kit
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Now available from SNG Barratt; replacement veneer kits for all first generation XK8 models up to 2006. These are available in three different finishes – burr walnut (as fitted to the majority of UK cars), piano black or carbon fibre (pictured, left), and are available for cars with or without SATNAV. They are also offered in LHD or RHD versions. The kits are very competitively priced at £475 each + VAT on an exchange basis (or outright at £625 + VAT), and give the XK8 owner the chance to either refresh tired looking veneer OR dramatically change the appearance of the car with a carbon fibre or piano black dash-board. The kits are straight-forward to fit, and most variants are kept in stock for immediate despatch. Part numbers: DASH/31 to DASH/42. |
Contact our Sales team near you for more information, or to order.
| Sales Office UK Phone: 01746 765 432 Email: sales.uk@sngbarratt.com |
Sales Office USA Phone: +1 800 452 4787 (toll free) Email: sales.usa@sngbarratt.com |
| Sales Office France Phone: +33 (0) 3 85 20 14 20 Email: sales.fr@sngbarratt.com |
Sales Office Holland Phone: +31 (0) 13 52 11 552 Email: sales.nl@sngbarratt.com |
Check out SNG Barratts own website for details of some exceptional offers!
Repros, Reprints, Forgeries and Fakes!
Ian Cooling flags up some of the dangers for the unwary collector
It is a sad reflection on human nature that the moment collectible items acquire any monetary value, there will be those who will find ways of copying them more cheaply and passing off the copies as the real thing.
Such individuals will knowingly be acting fraudulently. However, someone may buy one of those copies and, in all good faith, give or sell their purchase on to someone else. In time, that fraudulent item will acquire a "provenance" built on sand and will start to circulate as the genuine article.
I have visited this topic elsewhere before but I make no apologies for returning to it, not least because although there will be some overlap, the readership of Letitia's Xclusively Jaguar newsletter is significantly different to those who read earlier articles of mine on this topic. It is also clear to me that we shall always need to be on our guard, so occasional reminders are certainly worthwhile.
Indeed, the trigger for this article is that I have had a number of dud items submitted to my auction this year, especially high-value brochures. It has been one of my less-pleasant tasks gently telling a customer that the D-Type brochure he probably bought for several hundred pounds, is a modern copy and worth, at best, £25.
Reactions to such news vary. Some will accept my opinion, albeit ruefully; others will (quite reasonably) ask for a second opinion. Others blow their top!
Of the copies, some are honest copies and are clearly marked as such. Others give no indication at all that they are anything other than genuine. While it is impossible to judge the motives of the originators of the "undeclared" copies, there is certainly scope for shady business down the line.
I have accepted copies into my auction in the past, but only on the clear understanding that I can clearly mark those items as copies or reproductions. If the seller is not prepared for me to do so, then I do not accept the item - not least because my own reputation is on the line here.
So what are the dodgy items? They fall into four basic categories: first, copies of the real thing, such as the D Type brochure I mention above; Desmo mascots have also been particularly widely copied. Secondly, items that have nothing to do with SS Cars or Jaguars, but are doctored to look as if they are, such as the phony SS Cars ashtray and switch I illustrate here. Thirdly, genuine items that are "enhanced" to increase their value, such as a genuine SS Car Club badge with the addition of a replica "Founder" plaque.
The fourth group is genuine items (like a cigarette case), with a genuine badge (for example) stuck on to it. These never appeared together like this but do turn up variously described as a genuine Jaguar item or an item "created with the Jaguar owner in mind". The latter is almost certainly a 100% correct description of the creator's intent. But it can be misleading for the buyer who may not realise they are buying a confection cooked up by the seller that has no connection with the company.
Be wary of excessively low prices too. I suspect I am not alone in having been offered rarities at "bargain" prices and on examination realising that the article was not an original. The low price, coupled with the behaviour of the seller when challenged, made it perfectly clear that he – and in once case, she – knew full well what they were doing. Others with perhaps less knowledge and experience would almost certainly have been taken in.
What to do about it? Well, as I say above, if they do not already have such markings, I always make a point of clearly marking any item that I know to be a copy that passes through my hands. I do so with the permission of the seller and if this is not forthcoming, I do not accept the item into my auction. I have actively encouraged others to do likewise, especially other auctioneers and dealers.
As collectors, let us beware of those unreal "bargains" and let us double-check the provenance of rare and unusual items that come our way. If buying on-line (particularly dangerous ground, especially for the more valuable items), ask the seller for some background to the item. If it has been claimed that it is a genuine factory item, why can they be so certain? By doing so, we shall have done our little bit to ensure that the chain is broken and the item does not continue to circulate unchallenged.
My other key suggestion is that if you are intending to spend good money in a field where you are pushing your own knowledge to the limit, do seek advice. This may come from fellow collectors or from one of the many websites devoted to the Jaguar marque (JagLovers.com has an extensive section for collectibles). And I can confirm that by-and-large there are a lot of people out there who are more than happy to share their knowledge with other enthusiasts, so don't feel shy at asking.
And don't forget the trade; automobilia dealers, particularly the specialists who have been around a while, are an exceptionally good source of sound advice. They will have handled hundreds of items over the years and can quite often spot a dud very quickly.
To close on a brighter note, I should record that many dubious top-end items such as pre-war brochures and the rarer badges have been removed from the market in the way I describe. The problem is now with middle-market collectibles such as competition pieces from the 1950s (take special care with autographs) and the "hybrid" items being sold on-line and on the autojumble circuit.
It follows from all this that if you would like me to give an opinion on any item you are thinking of buying or bidding for, please do not hesitate to mail me on ian.cooling@invictanet.co.uk. I shall need at least one photo, preferable several from different angles. If the item you want me to check is on-line please let me have a link to the site and the id number or some other identifier.
In the meantime, do keep in mind that by far the majority of the items on offer are genuine and so are by far the majority of sellers. Take care, but don't over do it.
Happy Hunting!
The accompanying photographs expand on all these themes.
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Every single brochure in this photo is a copy. Those for the XK 120, the C Type and the D Type are clearly marked as such and have a place in any collection as "space fillers" in the stamp-collecting term. In other words, to fill that gap until the real thing comes along. For rarer brochures, this might mean quite a lengthy wait! The E Type brochure on the other hand, carries no indication at all that it is anything other than the genuine article. An experienced dealer, who has handled many copies, would spot it instantly for what it is. However, the tyro collector would almost certainly have been taken in. |
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This is an example of a "hybrid" item created by putting two genuine items together to create a third item that is not what it claims to be. I shall not be giving too many trade secrets away in this article; however, to illustrate one way of spotting the oddities, this item was described as "A nice piece of memorabilia from the 1970's..." The cigarette case is probably of that era. However, the script on the badge, with the dropped "J", did not come into use until well into the John Egan era in the mid-1980s. This is the sort of item that may subsequently be sold in all good faith, with the seller giving exactly the same description as it carried when he bought it. Which is why we need to be on our guard. |
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This is another item similar to the cigarette case. The notebook is a perfectly genuine Stratton item. The badge is a perfectly genuine badge available at some stage from Jaguar dealers and Browns Lane. However, it was described as being "From the 60s". This is the first one I have ever seen. Were it genuine, it would have been made in quantity and I would certainly have seen others in the intervening years. Also, when I asked for more details my mail was ignored. Alarm bells rang loudly! |
Sadly, mascots are still an area of collecting that is particularly plagued by undeclared copies. The more valuable the genuine article, the greater the chance of someone succumbing to temptation, sometimes on a large scale. There was a gentleman active on-line two years ago who sold at least five of these "Desmo" mascots (that I was able to track) in the space of three months.
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To put this into context, that was more than everyone else combined, trade and private, over any comparable three-month period for the previous 12 months. Each sale was illustrated by the same photo (shown here); each mascot was described in virtually identical terms, with no indication whatsoever that it was anything other than a genuine Desmo. The prices realised made clear that the buyers certainly thought they were buying the real thing. At the moment, hardly a week goes by without a Desmo mascot appearing for sale on-line. Some are genuine, but many are not. Caveat emptor indeed! |
A reminder that it is not just the more obvious collectables that need care. Virtually any "branded" item, especially from the SS Cars era, is vulnerable to those from the dark side. Of course, there is a thriving and totally respectable trade in creating replicas such as badges and parts where the originals are unobtainable or would be down-right dangerous to fit. Such honest replicas are often works of art in their own right (the Maurdon Motors replica of the SS Car Club badge below, for example) and they are always sold as what they are.
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Not so these two items. They were on sale at Beaulieu on a stall with other collectibles and I am pretty certain that neither of these items has anything whatsoever to do with SS Cars. The bakelite ashtray would surely have been produced in some quantity. Yet, in getting on for 40 years of collecting and dealing, this is the only one I have seen. As for the switch, I showed it to four restoration experts with detailed knowledge of SS cars, and one long-time owner and researcher. None had seen anything like it before. |
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Another example of a "hybrid". Created in exactly the same way as the cigarette case and notebook but sold as the genuine article from Jaguar's limited range of accessories in the 1950s to 1970s and "totally correct". Again, this is the first I have seen and my suspicions were raised by the 20-year span of availability. Only a tiny number of items like these were available from the factory or dealers over such a lengthy period. I searched my collection of brochures for Jaguar's accessories down the years – nothing. I spoke with others in the automobilia trade – nothing. I e-mailed the seller asking for some background, in particular an indication of why he could be so specific about this being a factory item – had it come from a Jaguar dealer, someone with company connections, or a Jaguar car owner? Nothing was forthcoming and I was, in effect, told to take it or leave it. Any genuine seller, trade or private, of a genuine article would have been at pains to validate the item as that would help boost the price. |
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A spot of honesty to close. As you can see from the front of this fine replica of the SS Car Club members' badge, it is superbly made. There is a high-grade metal casting for the body with the twin letter "SS" and the words "Car Club" correctly raised and then chrome-plated in the one metal casting. The vitreous enamel infill has been skilfully applied with no "pooling" or intrusions of foreign matter. |
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From the front, this can easily be mistaken for the real thing at a quick glance. However, turn it over and the truth is there for all to see. Maurdon Motors Ltd. have clearly stamped the back of the badge with their name. The quality of these badges is such that they now change hands for around £100. Not cheap but better, perhaps, to have one of these on your pride and joy than risk someone walking away with an original worth £500-plus! |
Visit Ian's website for the latest news on his auction
JAGUAR BOOK REVIEWS
Paul Skilleter's Monthly Jaguar Book Review
JAGUAR COLLECTIBLES
image shows full dust jacket
This 'must-have' reference book is by well known Jaguar automobilia guru Ian Cooling who built the finest collection of Jaguar automobilia in the world.
Ian Cooling was highly privileged in being the first person ever to have full access to the Jaguar Company archives and their own collection of automobilia. The book starts with fabulous images of trophies and other awards and artifacts amassed by the company over the years, expecially from the height of its competition successes in the 1950s. Many other specialist collectors also allowed Ian full access to complement his own vast collection. The superb photography found on every page and in great detail is by James Mann.
If you have any interest at all in Jaguar and its associated memorabilia then this book is a must for you! A totally unique 192-page survey exploring a Jaguar theme never before covered. Well over 500 stunning full-colour pictures showing literally thousands of different individual items: Models, posters, badges, paintings, racing items, press packs, books, magazines, and much, much, more.
Contents include:
Introduction
The Jaguar Crown Jewels
Brochures
Racing Automobilia
Books & Magazines
Posters and Advertising
Models
Mascots
Badges
Memorabilia
Enthusiastic comments made about the book since its release 12 years ago include:
So you thought everything that could possibly be written about Jaguars was already on the shelves? Wrong, because here is a fascinating book whose only concern is Jaguar automobilia! - Classic Cars
Eagerly awaited by many, and boy, has it been worth it! - Paul Skilleter - Jaguar World
A great work that will stand the test of time - Nigel Thorley - Jaguar Enthusiast
You will be strong willed if you can put it down - Phillip Porter - Jaguar Driver
This book will surely join the Jaguar collector's collection - Mike McCarthy - Classic & Sports Car
A fascinating book - Classic Car
Looks set fair to be a best-seller - Classic Car Mart
Photography is excellent…complemented by words which prove informed - Motor Sport
192 pages. Hardback, with dustjacket and copious (500 plus) full colour illustrations! Large format, 10.5 x 10.5 inches.
To request a signed copy, please visit Ian's website, below
For more information, on this and other Jaguar books, please visit the website below
Jaguar XJ220 - The Inside Story
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Jaguar XJ220 - The Inside StoryView full details of this and other Jaguar titles by Veloce Publishing |
For more details regarding Veloce Publishing; to order a copy of "XJ220 - The Inside Story" or to view details of other automotive books on offer, please follow the link below.
View Veloce Publishing Website
We invite ALL Jaguar owners to submit their own regular or one-off diary entry, along with a link to a personal Jaguar website. We hope you will enjoy, and benefit from, reading about the experiences of other Jaguar owners.
1.
Oliver - 1988 3.6 litre Sovereign
Owned by Kamil Burczyk
Kamil Visits Oliver's Birthplace!
On our way back from Plymouth last August, I asked Mum to stop off at Browns Lane, Coventry, for a quick break at Jaguar Heritage. I'm not that much up-to-date on Jaguar factories etc. and never thought the Browns Lane factory had been demolished! Now, there isn't a mark where the factory used to stand! Also, I always thought they had ALL of their cars on display, but only a handful of the Jaguar Heritage collection is displayed in the museum at a time, and they are all worth seeing. So next time you're in that area, go to the museum, it really IS worth seeing.
View pictures of Jaguar Heritage museum
Jaguar Heritage - museum opening times
2.
Tiggy - 1993 3.2 litre Sovereign
Owned by Rob Tucker
Final fitting of an X300 dash to an XJ40
Sadly, due to our lovely British winter weather and long winter nights, work on Tiggy is starting to grind to a halt until the weekends. This month really has flown by and yet again I've spent all my money on new and exciting projects to be getting on with during the dark evenings after work, but I shall save those for another diary!
Last month in my diary I said that I was going to fit an X300 dashboard into my XJ40 - well it was a long struggle with many parts having to be modified or fabricated but I got there in the end!!
This is how I did it.....
First of all I had to find an old XJ40 dashboard to use as a donor, but it had to be a 93 onwards dash as they were changed to accept the larger steering column bracket for the airbag column. Once I found one, I cut it in half to remove the outer skin, which wasn't needed.
Then the edges where cleaned to remove the old glue and to ensure that I got a very good bond when I glued the XJ40 lower part to the X300 skin. This took a lot of messing about and modification to fit, but after a few hours work it was finally glued and sealed up.
I then replaced the XJ40 vacuum flaps and wiring harness and fitted the X300 dash vents.
Sadly I didn't get any pictures of the fitting as there was a lot of shouting and swearing involved in the process!!!
But the finished dash looks amazing!
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View full size images
For the moment my wood/leather XJ40 steering wheel, which I was going to restore, has been put on hold, mainly because I've changed my mind about fitting one............ instead I'm going to try and fit something a little more challenging!
One of these......
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An X300 steering wheel and column! I'm hoping it will be fairly simple to fit but I know it will be a challenge to try and wire up the X300 switches to the XJ40 loom! |
I shall keep you updated next month......!
3.
Swallow - 1994 3.2 litre XJ Sport
Owned by Letitia Mace
My Swallow has flown!
Well, he is not really mine anymore............he now belongs to one very happy Wayne O'connell and I am hoping to persuade Wayne to contribute to my Jaguar Diaries with regular acoounts of life with an XJ40 3.2S!
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View Part 8 as pdf file
To receive this article (and others, including all previous parts of this series, and the last) as a pdf document with full-size pictures, please contact Xclusively Jaguar
Andy offers a used parts service for older Jaguars, as well as light restoration work, welding and advice.
I can personally recommend his used parts service.
Contact Andy via Xclusively Jaguar or direct, on: 07940 998199
Mitch Verheyen presents..........
First of all I want to wish everyone a great 2011, and safe motoring to all.
Secondly a Broadspeed update:
The weather has forced me to move indoors, and work on small parts of the car. Mainly making technical drawings for special parts, that are no were to be found. The hard part of making a proper replica of a car that is so obscure, is getting the information, and exact specifications.
I was lucky enough to be able to get the opportinity to see the real car in the museum and take lots of pictures and measurements of several significant parts that are unique to the two 1977 cars. Actually only to the Number 3 car, because the Number 4 car is the dry sump car, and is different as well, but the basis is the same.
The first part on my list was the intake manifold, as I already had the exact specification for that, so that made it a lot easier. They are totally different to the stock intake manifolds, as they have a 4 throttle body set-up.
Completed manifold
The manifold also incorporates parts of the mechanical Lucas fuel injection, but that is a really big problem, because I do not have this particular injection system. The second problem is, as you can see in the picture, everything that is normally in between the intake manifolds. I have seen how they did that, and I will tackle that task later when I'll build up the engine.
The fuel injection system is a somewhat crude version of the modern systems these days, with the principle of a diesel injection system. It uses a metering unit that is driven by the camshaft, and that distributes the fuel to every cylinder seperately, through the hoses you can see in the picture. In fact it's much easier to understand because it doesn't use sensors or any electronic settings.
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The start of the manifold fabrication. |
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I then began working on the fuel tank, also lots of aluminium. I had a freind mill me the filler caps on his lathe, and I am in the lucky position to be able to weld aluminium at work, so in my spare time I can do most of the fabricaton there. The actual fuel cell is made of stainless steel, and was professionally welded by someone who does this kind of work for a living. I cut a hole in it to be able to acces the tank, to put foam in it, and do maintanace on it when needed.
| The stacks, seen here, still need some holes cut into them for easy acces and lightening. Then the bowls need to be adjusted to fit the bootlid and the filler necks need to be installed. |  |
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After it's all mounted as it should be, it will look like this! |
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| I also made the oil tank for in the boot of the car that holds the oil for the differential. The differential is cooled by one of the radiators in the rear tank covers. |  |
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That is as far as the indoor work has progressed.
Some other Broadspeed news now...........
The replica Broadspeed XJ Coupe built by Mr Dennis Robinson has been sold to the Uk again, and will be taking part in several races next year all over the country.
This, I was told by the previous owner in Belgium, who was so kind to let me have a drive in it!
Les Hughes, of Jaguar Magazine, recognised one of the pictures he had taken of a Broadspeed Racer back in the Seventies, and contacted us, so if you recognise any of these as being one of your pictures, we would love to hear from you, so that we can acknowledge your work and your contribution to the story of Broadspeed!
Latest News from Xclusively Jaguar Registers
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
Letitia Mace
We currently have no Jaguar XKR Silverstones advertised on our Car Sales page.
We currently have 1 reader looking to buy a Jaguar XKR Silverstone in the UK.
Please contact Xclusively Jaguar in the first instance, if you can help.
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
Letitia Mace
We currently have no 1996 Daimler Century's advertised on our Car Sales page.
We do, however, have a 1997 Daimler Six lwb, which is a close relative, and has been reduced by £500 for quick sale! Please refer to Ref: 59 on our car sales page.
We currently have 3 readers looking to buy a 1996 Daimler Century (or similar) on our Wanted page.
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
Letitia Mace
XJ220 Transit Van
Don Law, the acknowledged XJ220 guru contacted Xclusively Jaguar in response to this item. He confirmed that he still owns the transit van and commented thus..........
"The Joe Holliday piece on the XJ220 transit van was fine. Just one correction, it is not a re-shelled XJ220 platform. It is actually a transit van with XJ220 components grafted in. Keep up the good work!"
We currently have no Jaguar XJ220's or XJR-15's advertised on our Car Sales page.
We currently have no readers looking to buy a Jaguar XJ220 or XJR-15 on our Wanted page.
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
Letitia Mace and Paul Sinnott
Latest Entries on the Jaguar XJ-SC Register
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VIN: SAJJNACW3CA 144837 Date of Manu: 08/09/87 Date of 1st Reg: 28/10/87 Description: 5.3 rhd automatic Colour: Solent Blue/Saville Grey Market: UK Location: UK (12/10) |
Further information by request |
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VIN: SAJJNVCW4JP 145339 Date of Manu: 02/10/87 Date of 1st Reg: tba Description: 5.3 lhd automatic Colour: Bordeaux Red Market: USA Location: Netherlands |
Information updated to include picture. Further information by request. |
We currently have 3 Jaguar XJ-S Cabriolets advertised on our Car Sales page, plus the TWR conversion listed in last months issue of Xclusively Jaguar News.
We currently have no readers looking to buy a Jaguar XJ-S Cabriolet on our Wanted page.
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
David Jobson-Scott and run in association with www.xjconvertible.com and www.xjc.com.au
Latest entries on the XJ Coupe Register
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Chassis no: 2F 1261 BW Marque: Daimler Engine: 5.3 V12 Drive: rhd auto Colour: Greensand Trim: Black hide Location: UK |
Described by its owner as "Willing, nimble & precise on the road despite its age. Stiffer Konis, an XJ-S rack & XJ-S shims below the front spring bump stops all help to make it a great touring machine bar the fuel consumption!" Further details by request |
We currently have no Series 2 XJ Coupes advertised for sale on our Car Sales page.
We currently have no readers looking to buy a Series 2 XJ Coupe on our Wanted page.
Register compiled by Steve Johns and run in association with www.jaguarsport-xjr.com
This register is run in association with Steve Johns website, of the same name. If you have an urgent enquiry, we will endeavour to deal with this on behalf of Steve, who is currently off the road! Non urgent matters will be passed onto Steve in due course. Many thanks for your patience and continued support.
Our intended report on where to have alloy wheels refurbished if the damage is already done, will appear in a future issue, due to space considerations!
We currently have 1 TWR/Jaguarsport XJR advertised on our Car Sales page.
We currently have no readers looking to buy a TWR/Jaguarsport XJR on our Wanted page.
Register compiled for Xclusively Jaguar by
Michael Scott and Martin Lamb
We currently have no TWR/Jaguarsport XJRS's advertised on our Car Sales page.
We currently have no readers looking to buy a TWR/Jaguarsport XJRS on our Wanted page.
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Last month Jack was sold on to a new owner, and next month, Esta-jane will introduce her latest Jaguar in "Jaguar Diaries" with a link to "Project Jaguar" where you can see full details of all her Jaguar projects!
Visit Esta-janes website
Xclusively Jaguar Across the Globe!
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XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR IN FRANCE
S-type rhd to lhd Conversion
I was recently contacted by Andy Booth, the owner of a rhd S-type (X200) living in France. Andy was unable to find a good lhd S-type and asked about the possibility of converting his own car to lhd. First port of call was of course, Mike Kennedy - JEC S-type Forum Co-ordinator, who confirmed my beleif that the cost would be prohibitive. Andy had not realised quite how involved changing the drive side of a car would be! After a brief discussion of other possible options, I emailed every Jaguar owner I know in France, hoping that one or two would respond! Well, I am very pleased to say that everybody rallied round and hopefully now, Andy has received a great deal of ideas, advice and support! Many thanks to everyone who responded!
Sebastian Callens, former JEC area representative offered the following, to back up his advice to Andy, and assures me that he is willing to help any Jaguar owner in France, despite stepping down from his official role as an area representative.
Websites to buy/sell cars on the Continent
The fact that I recently sold one of my cars (the XJ40) made me think that some of you may want advice about which websites to use to sell or buy your car (free or paying) and which ones have good results. Here is a selection (again, your feedback and experience are welcome):
- Le Bon Coin (http://www.leboncoin.fr/): free but very messy as people sell eveything. Good bargains sometimes if you want to buy and many offers though many local ones. If you want to sell, expect bizarre people to phone, sometimes offering some exchanges. Be careful!
- Annonce Jaunes (http://www.annoncesjaunes.fr/): free, subsidiary of PagesJaunes. I did receive a lot of requests when I posted my XJ40 for sale on this website. It didn't bring to any sale but I had good contacts. Seems to get better and better.
- Motorlegend (http://www.motorlegend.com/): free. Enthusiasts website, but not very active for the car sales. Mostly classic and sports cars.
- Petites Annonces of Ebay (http://annonces.ebay.fr/): free but not very efficient. If you buy, be sure that you look in person at the car on every detail.
- Auctions of Ebay (http://annonces.ebay.fr/): not very expensive but not very efficient if you are selling an enthusiast car. People are looking for bargains and except some of them do not understand the price difference between a well cared for car and a car sold "dans son jus". Sometimes good deals when you buy.
- La Centrale (http://www.lacentrale.fr/): the most known and used website for cars sales. Cost is less than 40 Euros depending on the options you take. Serious and efficient. I sold my X-Type through this website. Many offers, some from professionals with a one year guarantee but check what is covered.
- 321 Auto (http://www.321auto.com/): not as well-known as La Centrale but they have a "pack offer" to display your annoucement on dozens of websites. Cost is less than 40 Euros according to the options you take. I sold my XJ40 through this website. As professional as La Centrale.
In general, do not sell/buy from countries outside EU when using websites, especially when selling to Africa (Cote d'Ivoire, Gabon, ...). All these websites advise you not to, as some people will promise very quick payment transfers and will send someone to pick the car up very quickly also. You will receive the payment, the carrier will pick the car up but the payment will disappear from your account within the next few days and you will never get your money back. Don't ask me how they do that, they just manage to do it ... When you sell, ask for a Bank Cheque or a money transfer. If it is a Bank Cheque, tell the buyer that you will call his bank to check if it is not a fake one. When you buy, don't be surprised that the seller is doing the same. Cash can be a way but any cash transaction over 6000€ will have to be justified to the Bank and tax ministry if asked.
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR IN AUSTRALIA
An Australian Jaguar Mk VII Historic Racer
by Bill Hinte JP (Qual). Dip, Teaching. Dip, Engineering. (Retired)
While at a recent club day at Lakeside International Raceway in SE Queensland, I photographed a Mk VII Jaguar in full racing guise. I was very busy this day doing some urgent set up work for another Competitor and so had no time to make contact with the owner of this vehicle.
As with many competent drivers in the club scene and historic racing, with very few exceptions, the name of the owner of this car is not all that well known outside of the historic racing movement in this country. It took me some time to actually track him down, now maybe that was all my fault as I did not know where to actually look! That was solved by an email to Lloyd Anderson, who has knowledge of this competitor.
John Tupicoff has owned the 1954 Mk VII for around 4 years; he originally began restoring it with the expectation that he and his wife would enjoy this car in club events around the country.
At first this car was entered with the E type Register and subsequently competed in a few of their "Midnight to Dawn" runs.
The car went so well that they made the decision to prepare the car for more "active" competition, which included further engine work (after the original took a turn for the worse) together with an upgrade to the suspension and brakes. At this juncture the Moss gearbox was also fully overhauled as John decided that he liked the sound and slower change of this box as it was in keeping with the historical values of this form of racing.
All the usual suspension work of effectively lowering the car was performed including a set of Koni adjustable shocks and a 1 inch sway bar.
A good set of slightly wider wheels were produced to take into account the most suitable tyres that are now available to suit this somewhat heavier car than the current super touring units that today perform on our circuits. John had intended to use Yokohama tyres as these have provided very good performance for others in historic competition; however as in the best laid plans these were not available at the time, so Falken 225-50-16 were substituted and have proven to be well up to the task asked of them.
Now that this car has been log booked as a Group N Historic Race Car, it means that it must run similar to the period pre 1958 - i.e. 3.4 litre Jaguar engine, Moss gearbox, drum brakes and 15 x 5 ½ inch wheels (16 inch if tyres can be found, meanwhile Avon tyres 205/70/15) and with a full interior. The only exception is that a racing seat is allowed, this to simplify the mandated fitting of an appropriate seat belt!
The engine is a well built 3.4 block and B type head. The bottom end was carefully balanced and an upgraded oil pump fitted. Compression was set at 8.1 using solid skirt pistons, the head was ported and polished in the traditional way by noted Jaguar head man Mike Hunter, using larger valves. The camshaft was ground to a 26-66 inlet 70-22 exhaust with 0.42 lift. A lightened flywheel, 30% less in weight, was fitted with a 9.5" diaphragm clutch. The usual Twin 2" SU carburetors are fitted together with an XJ6 distributor for improved reliable spark control.
With this engine run in and operating as John had wished, he found that this new found urge was making the braking suspect, so harder linings and a larger PBR power booster were fitted and it is apparent that further work will be required to this area including drilled backing plates, etc.
One can see that even in this world of historic racing, development work will still go on to achieve better results.
The first outing as an historic racer was at Morgan Park near Warwick, up on the Darling Downs of Queensland. This is relatively high country for us in Australia, as it sits at the top of our Great Dividing Range (well maybe not the very top?) It gets cold and wet at times. This race meeting was not to miss out on that rain. So on an extremely wet Saturday morning practice, surprise, surprise, the Mk V11 handled the wet weather with great aplomb!
Since that first meeting work has continued to develop this fine older Jaguar, in particular the exhaust has been well tinkered with and together with the engine mods mentioned above now produce 180 BHP at the back wheels.
Even given that this car is big, it is well balanced and with the increased power that is now available, John is able to get it to over steer sufficiently to handle the tighter corners on some of our more challenging circuits. John said in an email to me, when I asked his permission to do this article, that the engine, brakes and suspension are more than adequate for his driving skills, before he needs to improve this car further. That is what John says! I AM WRITING THIS ARTICLE BECAUSE I SAW JUST HOW WELL THIS CAR AND DRIVER combination PERFORMS. John is no "club driver" to drive this car in the fashion that he does so well.
It is great to see one enjoying our sport in this fashion. I would be interested to hear from anyone else that runs a similar car.
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR IN SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa Club Focus
THE CAPE JAGUAR CLUB
View The Cape Jaguar Journal
XCLUSIVELY JAGUAR IN THE USA
USA Club Focus
JAGUAR CLUB OF FLORIDA
View JCOF News
View Xclusively Jaguar
Parts, Automobilia, Books etc
For sale and wanted
View Xclusively Jaguar
Cars for sale and wanted
Important Notices and Disclaimers
Please note: All images are the property of Xclusively Jaguar and its agents, unless otherwise stated, and they are not to be reproduced in any way without prior consent.
Important: Please also refer to our Disclaimer
Please contact Xclusively Jaguar if you:-
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Remember, it is exclusively JAGUAR, but this is also taken to mean SS and Daimler.
Thankyou for taking the time to read my newsletter.
Kindest Regards
Letitia Mace
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