1951 Jaguar Mk V 3.5 litre Drophead Coupe

1951 Jaguar MK V 3.5 Litre Drophead Coupe

First registered in 1951 and one of just eight examples originally exported to New Zealand, this impeccably restored Mk V was first registered to a Mrs Hope. It spent the following years in the northern region before being ‘barn’ discovered in 1994, in Taupo central North Island. A restoration was commenced by stripping the car to the last nut and bolt.

The 3 1/2 -litre engine was extensively reconditioned and balanced. The gearbox was overhauled with new seals to prevent oil leaks whilst new bearings were fitted to the differential. The body was then subjected to the dipping process; all panels were metal finished and body solder was used as per original specification. All chrome parts were triple plated. This process took many months, carried out by Steve Roberts of Wanganui, one of the most respected of New Zealand constructors.

Just 108 right hand drive 3.5lt drophead coupes were produced as most were for the left hand drive export market. Imported to the UK in 2011, this car formed part of a private collection in Surrey, where it was exercised occasionally and regularly maintained.

Finished in arguably the most appealing colour combination of black with a beautiful deep red leather interior, this car joined The Private Collection in April 2017.