1948 Jaguar Mk4 Highway Cruiser

This project is the 'resto-mod' (restoration-modification) of a 1948 Jaguar 3½ Litre ‘Mark IV’ saloon. The owner in Victoria is looking for a comfortable and reliable daily driver and highway cruiser to complement his collection of authentic Jaguar vehicles.

The Ford V8-powered cruiser will deliver greater reliability and maintainability for a daily-drive, while still offering the enjoyment of the classic post-war elegance and graceful styling of Jaguar.

The 'resto-mod' will include upgraded driveline, brakes and suspension as we resurrect the post-WWII Jaguar and bring it into the twenty-first century.

The original 'matching numbers' engine will be retained in the car's garage in case a future custodian wishes to reinstate the original pushrod engine.

Originally painted in 'Suede Green' with a green interior, the Mk4 was delivered new to South Australia on 29 January 1948. Along with all the trappings of the era, the saloon originally includes a 3485cc straight six, four-speed transmission and mechanical brakes.

Project Timeline

The timeline below provides a structured breakdown of the resto-mod project. Please click on each section to read more details and see a related gallery of images.

FR18003 Stage 1 - Transport and Receival

Upon arrival at Finch Restorations, the 1959 Jaguar Mk2 underwent a first assessment to survey externally visibile issues, and catalogue loose parts. Molly was assigned as the project manager.

FR18003 Stage 4 - Stripping and Priming

The rusted sills have been opened up, grime and body Schutz removed, and the paint stripped from the body by hand (not shown) and by low pressure blasting. This reveals the extent of rust, and in ...