Founded by
William Lyons, bringing new style
to Swallow sidecars, then manufacturing a
series of special bodies for more common vehicles
such as the Austin Seven, the Fiat Tipo 509A,
the Standard 9 and the Standard 16. Lyons
joined forces with William Walmsley, naming
their new business SS Cars, the most famous
being the 1935 SS90 and SS100. Used Jaguar
as a model designation for its saloons and
drop-head coupes.
Struggled for a time after
World War 2, never again making the famous
SS100. Released the awesome XK120 Roadster
at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the company
now opting to use the Jaguar name exclusively
given the sinister connotations of SS following
the war. Continued through the 1950's, 60's
and 70's to build some of the most desirable
and collectable sports cars and saloons around.
Also see: Jaguar
Heritage,
Swallow Sidecars - The William Lyons Story,
Jaguar - A Racing Pedigree
