1963 Jaguar Mk10

This long, streamlined vessel silently swallows the asphalt, waddling along on its supple suspension. Under the endless hood, the muffled murmur of the long in-line 6-cylinder engine is barely heard in the cocoon of the cabin.           

All is delicacy in this powerful sedan, whose shapes already symbolized the future XJ6 launched in 1968. The successor to the big MK 9, the MK X was intended to be a top-of-the-range model above the sportier MK2 3.8-liter models. It was aimed primarily at the American market, where the Coventry-based brand had been successful since the launch of the Jaguar Xk120. In view of the recent success of the Jaguar E in the USA, the feline brand was so hard pressed to supply that it refused to lend one to the TV series "The Saint" starring Roger Moore. To do so, this top-of-the-range model was fitted at the rear with the Jaguar E's independent wheel suspension and, above all, with the sharpest version of its mechanics (Straight Port), with 3 carburetors delivering 265 hp SAE. Power capable of propelling this magisterial vessel weighing almost two tonnes at almost 200 km/h. In 1961, this speed was surreal for this type of car. Not only was the MK X as luxurious as a Bentley, particularly in terms of its leather- and wood-lined interior, but it also boasted far superior dynamic qualities, with powerful Dunlop four-disc brakes, good independent suspension and, above all, exceptional performance. The icing on the cake was that it was offered at half the price of a Bentley. Well, almost, at nearly 40,000 francs at the time, with the optional automatic gearbox as on this version. This splendid Jaguar Mk10 benefits from a full appraisal report. A must-see.