Return of the Jag!

We’re thrilled to see the SS Jaguar 100 return to the Museum

A rare SS Jaguar 100 which epitomises 1930s speed and glamour has returned to the Lakeland Motor Museum after leaving the Museum at the start of the year.

The 1937 model has undergone a recent marque specialist recommissioning and is now in full working order and on display at the museum.

Fewer than 200 vehicles of this model were ever made. In its day, the SS Jaguar 100 reached speeds of 100 mph - exceptionally fast in the 1930s, when many vehicles struggled to sustain 50mph.

The car’s owner has a strong affinity to the Lake District and has kindly loaned it to the Lakeland Motor Museum in memory of her late husband who owned the car for over 60 years.

This particular car was tested by the Motor Magazine in May 1937, then by Autocar in July. It also completed the 1937 RAC rally, helping to win the manufacturer’s team prize.

Originally marketed for its ‘accurate steering and safety at speed’, the car’s very low centre of gravity meant it was less likely to overturn by cornering at high speed.

Chris Lowe, museum curator at the Lakeland Motor Museum, says, “Many people regard the SS Jaguar 100 as one of the most eye-catching Jaguar cars ever made – it is certainly one of the rarest. We’re thrilled to see it return to the Museum as it was a popular part of our display the first time around so we anticipate much excitement about its return.”

The Lakeland Motor Museum is open daily and has more than 140 classic cars and motorbikes along with thousands more exhibits of automobilia. It also has special displays honouring the historic speed record exploits of Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell. Highlights include full sized replicas of the 1935 Bluebird car and the 1967 jet hydroplane Bluebird K7.

Entry is £12.50 (adults) and £7.50 (children).