Description
1948 Jaguar Mark IV Dropped Coupe
Like its American and European counterparts, the only thing Jaguar could put into production immediately after the War was a pre-war model. Therefore, when Jaguar released its postwar “Drophead” models in 1948, it drew upon designs made popular more than a decade prior. With their big wire wheels, separated fenders with running boards slung between them, chromed vertical radiator shells and monstrous freestanding Lucas P100 headlights, they were instantly recognizable as elegant, expensive and antiquated. Often unofficially referred to as the “Mark IV” (because the Mark V was its direct predecessor), Jaguar only ever produced 104 2 ½ Litre Drophead coupes with 73 of those cars intended for the right hand drive market. Consequently, only a handful of 2 ½ litre cars have survived and ended up in the United States. Needless to say, this 1948 Jaguar Mark IV is exceedingly rare.
The car has only had two owners and has never been in an accident. It is perfectly straight and rust-free, the gaps and fit of the panels correct. Since purchasing it in 1970, the current owner has meticulously cared for and maintained the car while making many beautiful and understated upgrades. The interior seating has been completely recovered with exceptional fine grain Italian Cabretta Cape leather, much more comfortable, durable and expensive than the original factory leather. A completely hidden custom air conditioning system has been added for touring comfort and works as well as any contemporary system – a wonderful upgrade that can be removed should the new owner wish to return the car to its original state. The conventional canvas top has been replaced with high quality Rolls Royce Landau vinyl, which compliments the custom two tone exterior perfectly. The primary color replacing the original flat black finish is desert sand, accented magnificently with a deep fawn color which has been carried over to the powder-coated original wire wheels. The massive brake drums have been chrome-plated to further accent the beautiful wire wheels, which have been freshly wrapped in new white wall tires.
The interior is flawless, the seats, headliner and carpets free of wear or fading. The solid wood dash is glossy and complete without any warping. The original vinyl door panels and lining in the boot have been replaced with high quality patterned vinyl to complement the exterior and interior color scheme. The exterior is also in exceptional condition. The elegant two tone finish is of high quality and has few imperfections (i.e. negligible chips, wear, etc.). The chrome is in outstanding condition, the headlights, accents and massive radiator shell free of pitting or flaking. The Jaguar hood ornament is cast silver; an appropriate finishing touch to a car of this caliber.
The original, numbers matching engine has been completely rebuilt within 2,800 miles. Needless to say, it performs flawlessly, maintaining excellent compression and moving smoothly through each gear. The brakes have less than 500 miles on them and the car drives and brakes straight as an arrow. Absolutely no mechanical concerns – the current owner has taken care of everything at significant cost.
The pictures truly tell the tale of this incredible automobile. It is utterly stunning, drawing the attention and enthusiastic interest of pedestrians and other motorists wherever it goes. This auction offers a rare and unique opportunity to own a true classic that can actually be driven and enjoyed by its new owner. Recent auction sale prices for Mark IV Drophead Coupes have exceeded $130,000 U.S. and they will only continue to appreciate. Take this chance to own a beautiful part of British motoring history at an exceptional price.
