Image of 1939 Jaguar Ss100, sourced from www.goodingco.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1939 Jaguar SS100 is a rolling sculpture of pre-war automotive elegance, a testament to the vision of Sir William Lyons, the founder of Swallow Sidecar Company, which would later become Jaguar. This vehicle emerged as a shining star during an era when the world was on the brink of monumental change. The SS100 was not only a symbol of luxury and performance but also a beacon of innovation in a time that demanded nothing less. A notable moment in its history is its namesake; 'SS' stood for Swallow Sidecar, and '100' signified the theoretical top speed in miles per hour – an audacious claim that captured the imagination of enthusiasts and critics alike.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1939 Jaguar SS100 was nothing short of breathtaking. Its long bonnet, sweeping fenders, and low-slung body were penned with an artistry that commanded attention. The interior was equally impressive, with rich leather upholstery and polished wood accents that spoke volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. Technologically, it featured innovations such as a pushrod overhead valve engine and Girling mechanical drum brakes. While color options were varied, the deep hues of British Racing Green and gleaming black were among the most popular choices. The roadster body style, complete with a fold-down windshield, was iconic and remains the most celebrated configuration.

Historical Significance

The 1939 Jaguar SS100's impact on automotive design was profound. It set new standards for what a sports car could be, blending performance with luxury in ways that had never been seen before. Its influence extended far beyond its own time, inspiring future generations of Jaguar models and shaping the brand's identity as a purveyor of speed and sophistication.

Performance and Handling

The SS100's 3.5-liter engine propelled it to a top speed near its namesake 100 mph mark, while acceleration from 0-60 mph could be achieved in an impressive (for its time) 10.4 seconds. On the road, it handled with grace and agility, absorbing bumps with poise while remaining composed on windy roads. Driving an SS100 was an auditory delight as well; the sonorous roar of the inline-six engine provided an exhilarating soundtrack to every journey.

Ownership Experience

While originally intended as a thoroughbred sports car capable of both grand touring and spirited driving events, today's owners often cherish their SS100s as show cars or for occasional leisurely drives. Maintenance requires a dedicated approach given its age and rarity, but many parts are surprisingly accessible due to a devoted enthusiast community. The simplicity of pre-war technology also means that repairs can often be performed by owners with some mechanical knowledge.

Fun Facts

The SS100 has graced many prestigious collections over the years, including those owned by celebrities and royalty. It has also made cameo appearances in films and television series set in its era. Despite its many accolades, some critics have pointed out that its braking system could be better matched to its powerful engine—a reminder that even legends have their quirks.

Collector's Information

Today, an original 1939 Jaguar SS100 is a rare gem with only 118 units built before World War II halted production. Values can vary widely based on provenance and condition but generally range from $300,000 to well over $1 million for pristine examples or those with significant historical relevance. The market trend for these vehicles has been appreciably upward over time, reflecting their desirability among classic car collectors.

Conclusion

The 1939 Jaguar SS100 is more than just a classic car; it's an emblematic piece of automotive history that embodies the spirit of innovation and luxury from its era. Its legacy continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world, ensuring its place in the pantheon of great automobiles for generations to come.

1939 Jaguar SS100 Windshield Post Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 6-1/8" long. Pair R&L-MP 799-AWindshield Post Pads. 3-1/4" wide X 6-1/8" long. Pair R&L

1939 Jaguar SS100 Fender Mirror Pad. 1-3/8" wide X 2-1/8" long. Each-MP 799-AAFender Mirror Pad. 1-3/8" wide X 2-1/8" long. Each

1939 Jaguar SS100 Headlight Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 5-1/8" long. Pair-MP 799-BHeadlight Pads. 2-5/8" wide X 5-1/8" long. Pair

1939 Jaguar SS100 Headlight Pads. 3" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 799-QHeadlight Pads. 3" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1939 Jaguar SS100 Tail-light pads. 3-3/4 in. W x 3-5/8 in. L. Pair.-MP 799-RTail-light pads. 3-3/4 in. W x 3-5/8 in. L. Pair.

1939 Jaguar SS100 Windshield Wiper Transmission Pad-MP 799-SWindshield Wiper Transmission Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 1-5/8" long. Each

1939 Jaguar SS100 Hood Latch Pad. 2-1/4" O.D. Each-MP 799-THood Latch Pad. 2-1/4" O.D. Each

1939 Jaguar SS100 Headlight Pads. 3-7/8" wide X 5-1/8" long. Pair-MP 799-YHeadlight Pads. 3-7/8" wide X 5-1/8" long. Pair

1939 Jaguar SS100 Spark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part-RP 1-KSpark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part. Fits on the distributor cap end. Note: looks similar to coil boot, but is physically smaller. Replaces OEM# CO 2609. Each.