Only 24 1935 SS Cars LTD SS 90  exceedingly rare cars were built from March to November 1935, before being replaced by the SS Jaguar 100 with its bigger motor.

Bugatti Blue is the original color as shown on its Jaguar Heritage Certificate, the car also retains its original UK registration, BUF 965 issued July 22, 1935. Called the “90” because it could achieve that speed, the early history of BUF 965 is unknown until the 1950’s when it was raced in hill climbs in England.

The present owner purchased the vehicle in 1994, disassembled in a horse barn in Wales. The car came to the US in 2007 after a 13 year restoration in England.
This car has won 23 Best in Class, including several perfect scores in JCNA Events, 8 Best in Show and 4 People’s Choice Awards at Keels n Wheels, ACCA and other classic car events.

Overview

• Production Year: 1935
• Manufacturer: SS Cars Ltd (later Jaguar Cars)
• Model: SS 90

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The SS 90 is powered by a 2.7-liter (2663 cc) straight-six engine.
  • This engine produces approximately 68 horsepower at 4,000 rpm.
  • It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and twin SU carburetors, which were advanced for its time.
• Transmission:
  • The car features a 4-speed manual transmission.
  • The gearbox is known for its smooth shifting and durability, contributing to the car's overall performance.
• Chassis:
  • The SS 90 is built on a robust ladder-frame chassis, providing a strong foundation for the car's performance and handling.
  • The wheelbase measures 104 inches, offering a balance between stability and agility.
• Suspension:
  • The front suspension consists of an independent setup with a transverse leaf spring.
  • The rear suspension features a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
  • This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and sporty handling.
• Brakes:
  • The SS 90 is equipped with mechanically operated drum brakes on all four wheels.
  • These brakes offer adequate stopping power for the car's performance capabilities.

Performance

• Top Speed: The SS 90 can achieve a top speed of approximately 90 mph (145 km/h), which is how it got its name.
• Acceleration: The car's straight-six engine provides strong acceleration, making it competitive in the sports car market of its time.
• Handling: The SS 90 offers responsive and balanced handling, making it enjoyable to drive on both straight roads and winding routes.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The SS 90 features a stylish and elegant body with an open-top roadster design.
  • The car has a long hood, sweeping fenders, and a low-slung profile, giving it a dynamic and sporty appearance.
  • Chrome accents, a prominent radiator grille, and wire-spoke wheels add to its luxurious look.
• Interior:
  • The interior of the SS 90 is simple yet functional, with seating for two passengers.
  • The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, providing comfort for long drives.
  • The dashboard features essential gauges and controls, emphasizing practicality and ease of use.
• Styling:
  • The styling of the SS 90 is a blend of classic British sports car elements and modern touches, reflecting the design trends of the mid-1930s.
  • The car's design emphasizes both aerodynamics and aesthetics, contributing to its enduring appeal and status as a design icon.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The 1935 SS 90 represents an important period in the history of SS Cars Ltd, showcasing the company's early efforts in producing high-performance sports cars.
  • It was one of the precursors to the legendary Jaguar sports cars that would follow, including the SS 100 and the iconic XK120.
• Cultural Impact:
  • The SS 90 is a symbol of pre-war British automotive design and engineering, representing the elegance and performance of the era.
  • It was favored by enthusiasts who appreciated its combination of style, performance, and affordability compared to other sports cars of the time. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1935 SS Cars LTD SS 90 in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.

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