The Jaguar Mark V debuted at the London Motor Show in 1948. It was seriously upstaged by the dramatic new XK120, but as Jaguar’s bread-and-butter offering, actually outsold the XK120 by more than two to one during its short lifespan. While the XK120 stole the headlines with its stunning looks and fabulous twin-cam inline six, the Mark V had a few tricks up its sleeve as well. Since it beat the XK120 to production, it was the first Jaguar with hydraulic brakes, independent front suspension, pressed steel wheels and the first production car ever to use ball-joint mechanisms in the front end. The Mark V was available as a closed saloon or open drophead-coupe bodywork with either 2 ½ liter or 3 ½ liter single cam pushrod six-cylinder engines. Curiously, the Mark V only remained in production for 28 months and just over 10,000 were built before it was replaced by the more modern XK-powered Mark VII.

This charming 1950 3 ½ liter Mark V saloon presents very nicely thanks to a high quality and sympathetic restoration. The two tone English white over light blue paintwork is very attractive and is complemented by color-keyed steel wheels with wide-whitewall tires. Body, paint and panel fit are all excellent along with very nice exterior bright work and rubber weatherstripping. The interior has been fully restored and is trimmed in beautiful dark tan leather with matching carpets and dark wood trim. It has since been driven sparingly and has taken on a very appealing broken-in look that suits the car perfectly. The familiar XK120 steering wheel has a nice, original feel and patina to it and the original instruments have been fully restored and refaced by Nisonger Instrument with correct, phosphorescent markings. A period Motorola radio resides in the dash and a sunroof adds to the atmosphere of relaxed elegance this car exudes. Under the bonnet, the desirable 3 ½ liter Jaguar six-cylinder engine is very strong and the car is a sheer delight to drive. Engine bay detailing is nice and tidy, but not over-restored. The original tool kit is largely complete and the large boot is properly trimmed in blue, ready for your picnic basket. This gorgeous Mark V is a wonderful family touring car that would be equally at home on the show field or your favorite country lanes.

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