Jaguar SS100 3.5

• Dispatched on 1st February 1938 via Henlys of London and exported to Australia
• Period competition history, including the 1949 Australian Grand Prix at Leyburn
• Owned by one custodian for 57 years, with meticulous maintenance records
• Matching-numbers 3.5-litre engine – one of only 116 built
• Highly original and unrestored, authenticated by SS Jaguar authority David Davenport

The Jaguar SS100 holds a special place in motoring history. Built between 1936 and 1940, it was the first model to bear the Jaguar name and quickly became one of the most admired British sports cars of its era. Just 116 examples of the 3½-litre version were produced, making any surviving car a rare and desirable machine.

Chassis 39029 was dispatched on 1st February 1938 and sent to Australia, where it would embark on a colourful early life. By 1948 it had been acquired by Keith Thallon, President of the Light Car Club of Australia, who wasted no time putting the SS100 to work in competition. At its hillclimb debut, the car stormed to a class win and a course record — proof of both its speed and Thallon’s intent.

The car’s most famous outing came at the 1949 Australian Grand Prix in Leyburn, Queensland. Entered as car number 15 and starting from the front row, it ran without rear wheel arches to protect against the rough circuit surface. Unfortunately, a mechanical issue forced its retirement on lap ten, but its place in Australia’s motorsport story was already assured.

Later that same year, the SS100 was sold, eventually passing to Greg Berkman in May 1961. Berkman’s extraordinary 57-year custodianship is a story of care and respect. He maintained the car diligently, recording every detail in a handwritten log and preserving all supporting invoices and receipts — a remarkable history file in its own right.

Following its return to the UK, the car was inspected by the late David Davenport, the foremost authority on SS Jaguars. His verdict was unequivocal:

“This is in my opinion the most original 3½ Litre SS100 in unrestored condition. The car is very usable in this condition and is a pleasure to see such originality.”

Today, 39029 stands as an exceptionally original, unrestored, and matching-numbers SS100 — a car with authentic period competition history, long-term single ownership, and expert verification. A truly significant example of Jaguar’s first great sports car.

Now available for viewing at the DD Classics Dealership in London, please call to book an appointment.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above information but errors may occur. Please check with a salesperson.