Description
Jaguar MK I 3.4 | 1959
Highlights:
- Matching 3.4L straight-six engine rebuilt for unleaded fuel
- Original left-hand drive U.S. import with restoration history
- Waxoil-treated chassis
- Fitted with XJ disc brakes and overdrive
- Green leather interior with complete toolset
The seller offers for sale a 1959 Jaguar MK I, a classic British saloon powered by a 3.4-litre inline-six engine and paired with a manual transmission and overdrive. This example was imported from the United States and retains its left-hand drive configuration. With only around 7,500 examples produced, the MK I remains one of Jaguar’s rarer models from the post-war era. Documented odometer reading of 39,398 miles.
According to the seller, the body was stripped and rebuilt in 1999 with no welding required, a testament to its structural integrity. The chassis is in good condition, with no visible damage or corrosion, and the underside has been treated with Waxoil for long-term protection. The paintwork was also redone in 1999 using a two-component finish and is reported to be in good shape.
The chrome and polished stainless steel trim elements are complete and presentable. The car sits on black-painted 15-inch wire wheels fitted with new Radar Dimax Classic 185R15 tyres (2024). Mechanically, the engine runs well and has been adapted to run on unleaded petrol. The engine bay is described as tidy, and all instruments on the dashboard are operational.
This Jaguar has been upgraded with XJ-series brake calipers and discs, providing improved stopping power while maintaining the original feel. The car received a major service in 2024 and holds a valid technical inspection certificate.
The interior has been fully renewed and features green leather upholstery, matching green carpeting, and a beige headliner. The original Jaguar toolset is present and complete.
The Jaguar MK I was introduced in 1955 as the marque’s first unibody saloon and positioned to appeal to both luxury and sporting drivers. With input from Sir William Lyons, the MK I was styled to reflect Jaguar’s post-war design language, with a wide grille, sweeping fenders, and a fastback rear profile. It was offered with either a 2.4 or 3.4-litre engine, both derived from the famous XK inline-six.
The 3.4-litre variant, as seen here, delivered strong performance for its day, with a top speed around 120 mph and brisk acceleration thanks to twin SU carburettors. These capabilities, combined with rear-wheel drive and optional overdrive or automatic transmissions, allowed the MK I to compete with more expensive German and American rivals while offering genuine sports car DNA in a four-door package.
The car’s sporting intent was evident in its track record as well. The MK I 3.4 was successfully campaigned by drivers like Mike Hawthorn and Roy Salvadori, building Jaguar’s reputation for competitive road cars that could also perform on circuits. It laid the groundwork for the iconic MK II, but its more rounded proportions and rarity have gained renewed appreciation in recent years among collectors.
Well-preserved MK I models are now difficult to find, especially examples with complete restoration histories and tasteful mechanical upgrades. This example’s careful rebuild, factory left-hand drive setup, and subtle modern improvements make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a usable yet collectable post-war Jaguar.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in South Holland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
