Work on Jaguar's advanced new saloon had been interrupted by the war, and in 1948 elements of the proposed newcomer made their first appearance in other models: the twin-overhead-camshaft engine in the XK120 sports car, and the chassis design in the interim Mark V saloon. It was not until 1950 that the two were combined in the Mark VII, which would be the first of a family of high-performance luxury saloons that would culminate with the Mark IX. A considerable improvement on what had gone before, the Mark VII's cruciform-braced chassis featured torsion-bar independent front suspension and all-round hydraulic brakes. The 3.4-litre six had already demonstrated its prowess in the XK120 and proved capable of propelling the Mark VII comfortably past 100mph as, despite its size, it weighed just 1,676kg. Available at first only for export, the Mark VII was a big hit in the USA, that market's demands prompting the introduction of an automatic transmission option in 1953. Priced competitively to its Bentley Mark VI rival but 200kg lighter and 30% more powerful than the Bentley, it was arguably the leading sports saloon of its day. Although the Mark VII was a big car by European standards it handled very well in period and proved an able competitor, winning both on the circuit in saloon car racing and in long distance rallies, consequently the model is both Mille Miglia and Tour Auto eligible.

Originally supplied to New Zealand, YVL 312 is a rare, very early right-hand drive manual gearbox car. It was purchased in 2014 by its current owner who imported it to the UK. Having lived for the first 62 years of its life in a salt free environment, the big Jaguar's condition was outstanding and it remains largely original to this very day. Finished in Opalescent Silver with a fabulous dark red interior, this is one Gentleman’s carriage that is sure to please the most pedantic. The car drives well, and keeps up with modern traffic due in part to the five-speed gearbox fitted in New Zealand (original Moss box is with the car). In recent years, it has benefitted from extensive mechanical works and receipts are with the car. These  works included all four drum brakes professionally rebuilt, new suspension bushes fitted all round, fitment of a new clutch, master and slave cylinders replaced, and a re-cored high performance radiator with a switchable electric fan fitted. The fuel system has also benefitted from expert attention including refurbished fuel pumps, fully rebuilt twin SU carburettors, fuel tank and fuel lines. The car also has its owner’s manual in the original Jaguar sleeve and various period part books and service receipts etc. along with some period advertising and road test articles. This matching numbers, four owners from new 50s Jaguar provides both luxury, and an enjoyable driving experience and its striking road presence and rarity give this particular Mk VII an air of exclusivity that is not about to be replicated in the near future. As a regular Concours D ’Elegance attendee, including being invited to be part of the HM The Queen 95th Birthday display staged at the Hampton Court Palace Concours, this is one Jaguar that will please most marque aficionados and is more than worthy of your early inspection.