The 1934 SS1 Walmsley Roadster birth of the Jaguar Sports Car. The significance of the Walmsley Roadster is not to be underestimated; it was the first sports car built by the company and it style set the standard for gracefully powerful sports cars for years to come. It also ushered in the beginning of the aluminum sports car production for SS Cars LTD, later renamed Jaguar Cars and established the company as an industry leader in the use of the material.
This beautiful car was likely among Walmsley’s last designs under the SS roof. In 1935 Walmsley retired as Chairman and managing director leaving William Lyons in charge and essentially vanished for a number of years until Walmsley sold it to a US Army Office who brought it to America in 1956.
Background and History
- Manufacturer: The SS1 was produced by SS Cars Ltd, which later became Jaguar.
- Designer: The design of the SS1 was a collaboration between William Lyons and William Walmsley.
- Production Years: The SS1 was produced from 1931 to 1936.
Specifications
- Engine: The 1934 SS1 Roadster was typically equipped with a 2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine. Earlier models had smaller engines, but by 1934, the larger engine was more common.
- Power Output: The 2.5-liter engine produced around 68 horsepower.
- Transmission: The car came with a 4-speed manual transmission.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The SS1 Roadster featured a two-door, open-top design, emphasizing sporty and luxurious aesthetics.
- Coachwork: William Walmsley, a co-founder of SS Cars Ltd, was particularly involved in the coachbuilding aspect, which gave the car its elegant and distinctive look.
- Interior: The interior was designed with a focus on luxury, featuring leather seats and wooden trim.
Performance
- Top Speed: The SS1 Roadster had a top speed of around 75 mph (121 km/h), which was impressive for its time.
- Handling: The car was known for its good handling and ride quality, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of the era.
Legacy
- Significance: The SS1 Roadster is considered an important predecessor to the later Jaguar models, which would become renowned for their performance and style.
- Collectibility: Today, the 1934 SS1 Walmsley Roadster is highly sought after by classic car collectors and enthusiasts, valued for its historical significance and classic design.
You may purchase a print of the 1934 SS1 Walmsley Roadster in our dElegance 2016 online gallery.
