Image of 1937 Jaguar Ss100, sourced from www.connorsmotorcar.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1937 Jaguar SS100 emerges from the annals of automotive history as a paragon of pre-war design and engineering. Crafted by the illustrious Jaguar Cars, then known as SS Cars Ltd., this classic roadster was the brainchild of company founder Sir William Lyons. Its nomenclature, 'SS100', was a direct nod to its ability to break the 100 mph barrier—a feat that was nothing short of remarkable for its era. The SS100 not only captivated the affluent with its performance but also with its striking aesthetics, which have since become emblematic of vintage British motoring.

Design and Innovation

The SS100's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of art and aerodynamics. With its long, sweeping bonnet, upright grille, and large, flaring wheel arches, the car exuded a sense of speed even at a standstill. Inside, the cockpit was an intimate affair, featuring leather seats that cradled occupants in luxury and a dashboard adorned with an array of gauges set in polished wood or engine-turned aluminum. While not brimming with technological gadgets by today's standards, the SS100 boasted innovations like hydraulic brakes—a significant advancement at the time. Color options were typically British, with deep greens, blues, and blacks being popular choices among the discerning clientele. The roadster body style was most iconic, though a few coupé variants were also produced.

Historical Significance

The Jaguar SS100's influence on automotive design is undeniable. It set a new benchmark for sports cars in terms of both performance and aesthetics. Its introduction marked a turning point where automobiles transitioned from mere transportation to symbols of status and passion. The SS100's legacy is evident in the design language of subsequent Jaguars and continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its sculpted bonnet lay a robust 3.5-liter engine capable of propelling the SS100 from 0-60 mph in a respectable 10.4 seconds—a commendable feat for its time. The top speed was an impressive 101 mph. On the road, the SS100 handled with grace and agility, its rigid chassis and fine-tuned suspension system absorbing imperfections while maintaining composure through winding paths. Driving an SS100 was an auditory delight; the engine's throaty roar was music to any petrolhead's ears.

Ownership Experience

The 1937 Jaguar SS100 was not just another car; it was an experience—an indulgence reserved for those who appreciated its blend of performance and elegance. While some owners enjoyed it as a daily driver or weekend cruiser, others showcased its beauty in concours events or tested its mettle in racing competitions. Maintenance required a knowledgeable hand, but many owners found joy in tinkering with their mechanical steeds.

Fun Facts

This classic has seen its share of limelight with rare editions fetching high auction prices and celebrity ownerships adding to its allure. While not known for breaking endurance records, the SS100 did hold its own in competitive racing during its heyday. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its relatively basic amenities when compared to luxury contemporaries.

Collector's Information

Today, an original 1937 Jaguar SS100 is a coveted prize within the collector car community. With only approximately 198 units produced for the 3.5-liter model, rarity adds to their desirability. Current value ranges can be quite broad but expect figures well into seven digits for pristine examples. As with many classics of this caliber, values have generally appreciated over time as collectors vie to add this jewel to their collections.

Conclusion

The 1937 Jaguar SS100 stands as a testament to pre-war automotive excellence—an icon that captures the imagination of classic car aficionados around the globe. Its combination of beauty, performance, and rarity has cemented its place in automotive history books as well as in the hearts of those lucky enough to have experienced it firsthand.

1937 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

1937 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

1937 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

1937 Jaguar SS100 Headlight Pads. 3" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 799-QHeadlight Pads. 3" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1937 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.

1937 Jaguar SS100 Windshield Wiper Transmission Pad-MP 799-SWindshield Wiper Transmission Pad. 1-1/4" wide X 1-5/8" long. Each

1937 Jaguar SS100 Windshield Post Pads. 3-1/2" wide X 5" long. Pair-MP 799-SSWindshield Post Pads. 3-1/2" wide X 5" long. Pair

1937 Jaguar SS100 Hood Latch Pad. 2-1/4" O.D. Each-MP 799-THood Latch Pad. 2-1/4" O.D. Each

1937 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

1937 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.