Description
Jaguar MK IV 3.5 Saloon | 1946
Highlights:
- 3.5-litre straight-six engine: the top-tier MK IV version
- Dutch registered with valid inspection
- Distinctive post-war styling with original charm
- Set of documents and history folder included
- Highly presentable interior with minimal wear
The seller offers for sale this 1946 Jaguar MK IV 3.5 Saloon, finished in a classic post-war luxury configuration. Powered by a 3,486 cc inline-six engine and paired with a manual gearbox, this version was the range-topper in the MK IV series and offered superior performance and refinement.
This right-hand drive sedan presents as a full-bodied British luxury vehicle from the immediate post-war years. The 3.5-litre MK IVs were assembled with robust engineering and elegant touches throughout.
The exterior paintwork is rated as good and shows bubbling in places, indicating possible underlying surface issues. The body remains well-formed with correct panel alignment. Chrome accents and trim appear complete, and the overall shape is consistent with the original period look.
Inside, the car is in good condition. The upholstery and dashboard present well, with minimal wear visible. The seats, front and rear, are tidy, and the wood-trim elements appear intact. The entire interior gives off an authentic, period-correct feel. Some minor replacements may be considered for perfection, but it is usable and quite attractive as-is.
Mechanically, the car is classified as being in good condition. While overall reliable, it could benefit from maintenance. It is currently inspected and road-legal in the Netherlands. There are no noted technical upgrades like power steering or disc brakes, staying true to its original mechanical specification.
The Jaguar MK IV was the first post-war model produced under the Jaguar name, following the SS series. The MK IV was essentially a continuation of the pre-war SS Jaguar 1½, 2½, and 3½ Litre models, though post-war models no longer bore the SS badge due to its unfortunate wartime associations. Launched for the 1945 model year and produced until 1949, the MK IV saloons were built in modest numbers and represented the upper-middle class of British motoring.
The 3.5-litre six-cylinder engine was the most powerful variant in the MK IV range, delivering about 125 horsepower—enough to move the hefty saloon at a respectable pace for its time. Its rigid body-on-frame construction, leaf-spring suspension, and rear-wheel drive setup gave it a comfortable if traditional feel. The MK IV featured a high level of luxury with extensive use of leather, wood, and wool trim—qualities that made it a serious alternative to Bentley or Rolls-Royce at a lower price point.
Today, the Jaguar MK IV stands as a landmark in Jaguar history: it was the last of the pre-war-style designs and the bridge toward the more modern XK-era Jaguars that would follow. It remains an interesting collector’s item, especially in the rarer 3.5-litre configuration, which offers a tangible improvement in drivability and presence over the smaller-engined versions. With values appreciating and parts still available through specialist suppliers, this MK IV offers an authentic vintage British experience.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
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 North 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.
