In 1951, a breakthrough from Jaguar Car happened when they launched the XK120 sports car with the new XK twin overhead cam, 3.5L and a 6-cylinder designed engine, which Mr William Heynes and Claude Bailey contributed. It was initially intended as a short production of two hundred vehicles as a bed test for the new engine until it produced the new Mark 7 Jaguar saloon.
In 1951, the first Mark 7 Jaguar saloon model was launched and was introduced in the market. A Jaguar car was intended for the American market. It was at this time Jaguar Company was overwhelmed with orders. Mark 7 Jaguar saloon gathered excellent reviews from Road & Track and Motor magazine. It was in 1956 when Mark 7 Jaguar model won the prestigious “Monte Carlo Rally” award.

Mathew and Julie Bennets 1955 Mark 7 Jaguar. Rockhampton, Queensland, The engine for this car (the original) was found in a shed in Mt Morgan and is safely tucked away in Matthew’s shed. The Mark 7 is presently running around with a Holden 202 motor installed. The original motor will return to its rightful place one day. The colour is Old English White. Mark and Julie purchased this beauty in Dec 1996. And this vehicle is another one that is gradually being restored, although the significant work the Bennets have done (before Feb 97). |