Story and History

1958 Jaguar MK1 Special

This awesome MK1 was just a normal car finished in Mist Grey with Red interior - until Martin Greaves of Classic Performance Engineering was asked to upgrade this unsuspecting MKI in 2015

The enginewas built by marque expert John Pearson and apparently previously employed to power the late John Coombs' ex-Ecurie National Belge Jaguar D-Type

A vast array of engine upgrades as you would imagine - correct-type 'wide angle' cylinder head, six-branch big bore exhaust manifold, dry-sump lubrication and triple Weber DCOE 45m carburettors etc

The synchromesh gearbox is from an 'S' Type with overdrive

Jaguar MKII front and back axles allowed for the fitment of Coopercraft vented disc brakes up front, a Powr-Lok limited slip differential at the rear and Koni shock absorbers all-round

The steering box is also a MKII item but has been uprated with electronic (EZ) power assistance

Making her look more like a racing car than a road car the specially commissioned hubs allow the 16-inch Halibrand peg-drive alloy wheels sitting within Coombs-style rear arches

The twin fuel fillers are the only external signs of the MKI's considerably enhanced performance potential - one is for fuel and the other is for the dry sump lubrication system

Speaking of which the tank (hand made in alloy) is enlarged and the oil catch tank is similarly formed out of alloy

The subtle Lister-referencing green and yellow banding around the radiator grille offers another clue that this is no ordinary Jaguar and on the road she is a rocket with a howling exhaust note

The wooden fascia (in good nick) is adorned by a 'D' Type steering wheel whilst the interior with it's amazingly original Red leather upholstery is very smart, although not concours

Having said that this car is for driving not showing I suppose, whether this is for track days, a run down to the local for a Sunday luncheon and a natter with chums or just a blast down to Goodwood for the upcoming Members Meeting