In 1936 SS Cars Ltd. began producing an open two-seat sports model called the SS Jaguar 100. Along with the saloon (sedan) version, this 1936 Jaguar SS100 was the first car to bear the Jaguar name, later ad-opted for the entire marque. Very much a hand built car, it was treated as a showcase model by the manufacturer and not more than 300 were produced. Its rarity makes it one of the most desired sports cars.
It has all the design features typical of and English sports car of the 1930s, sweeping curved fenders, long hood, large headlights and grille and huge wheel radius. No wonder a magazine called the SS100 “the cad’s car”. The car is powered by and overhead-valve, in-line, 2,664 cubic centimeters, six cylinder engine producing 102 horsepower. Coupled to the four-speed transmission the car has a top speed of 90 mph and sold for about $2,000 in 1936.
Overview
- Production Years: 1936-1940
- Manufacturer: SS Cars Ltd, later known as Jaguar after World War II
- Class: Sports car
- Body Style: Open two-seater roadster
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- Initially, the SS100 was equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-six engine producing about 100 horsepower.
- Later models featured a more powerful 3.5-liter inline-six engine, which produced approximately 125 horsepower.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox
- Chassis: The car featured a ladder frame chassis which was both lightweight and sturdy, contributing to its sporty handling characteristics.
- Suspension:
- Front: Beam axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.
Performance
- Top Speed: The SS100 could reach speeds of up to 95 mph (153 km/h) with the 2.5-liter engine, and up to 100 mph (161 km/h) with the 3.5-liter engine.
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in approximately 10.4 seconds for the 3.5-liter model.
Design Features
- Bodywork: The SS100 featured a long, low bonnet, sweeping fenders, and an open cockpit, giving it a classic and sporty appearance. The design was both functional and stylish, embodying the spirit of the era.
- Interior: The interior was simple yet elegant, with leather seats, a wooden dashboard, and clear, easy-to-read instrumentation.
Notable Achievements
- Racing Success: The SS100 was successful in various motorsport events, including the RAC Rally and the Alpine Rally. Its performance and handling made it a favorite among racing enthusiasts.
- Limited Production: Only 198 units of the SS100 were produced, making it a rare and highly collectible vehicle today.
Legacy
- Jaguar Name: The SS100 was one of the first cars to bear the Jaguar name, and it played a crucial role in establishing Jaguar's reputation for producing beautiful, high-performance sports cars.
- Collector's Item: Today, the SS100 is highly prized by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance and aesthetic appeal, makes it one of the most sought-after pre-war sports cars.
You may purchase a print of the 1936 Jaguar SS100 in our dElegance 2013 online gallery.
