About Jaguar Mark VIII

By 1956, the Jaguar management decided to modernize the Jaguar Mk VII M sedan. As a result of the improvements, a new sedan—the Jaguar Mk VIII—was introduced, resembling its predecessor but with a number of differences. The first full-fledged model was assembled in September 1956, while the official release took place in October 1956 at the popular Earls Court Motor Show. The new car featured numerous visual changes compared to the previous model: 

- A curved windshield without a dividing strip; 

- Larger rear lights; 

- A smooth chrome line on each side, allowing for a two-tone body paint design; 

- Rear wheel arches without spats; 

- An enlarged and redesigned radiator grille; 

- Fog lights moved to the bumper area; 

- A more luxurious interior trim; 

- The return of the leaping Jaguar mascot. 

Technical changes were also introduced, focusing primarily on the engine. While the chassis was retained from the Jaguar Mk VII, the engine was made more powerful and taken from the standard version of the Jaguar XK140 (with a B-Head cylinder head and 190 hp). Later, it was replaced with an even more advanced version featuring a C-Head cylinder head and 210 hp.

Jaguar Mark VIII Overview

Introduced in 1956, the Jaguar Mark VIII was an evolution of the Mk VII M, featuring refined styling, enhanced luxury, and improved performance. Key updates included a curved windshield, larger rear lights, two-tone paint options, and a more powerful engine, initially offering 190 hp and later 210 hp. Debuting at the Earls Court Motor Show, the Mk VIII combined elegance with innovation, solidifying its place in Jaguar's legacy.

Jaguar Mark VIII Technical Specification

Engine:

3.5-Liter Inline-6:

Displacement: 3442 cc.

Power: 190 hp.

Bore: 83 mm, Stroke: 106 mm.

Dual exhaust system.

Lightweight connecting rods and aluminum pistons.

Twin horizontal S.U. H.D.6 carburetors with electric choke control.

Balanced crankshaft with seven bearings.

Compression ratio: 8:1.

Chassis:

High-strength steel frame with cross members for torsional rigidity.

Transmission:

4-Speed Manual Gearbox:

Gear ratios: Top: 4.27, 3rd: 5.84, 2nd: 8.46, 1st+Rev: 14.41.

Optional overdrive with gear ratios: Overdrive: 3.54, Top: 4.55, 3rd: 6.21, 2nd: 9.01, 1st+Rev: 15.35.

Automatic Transmission (Borg Warner): Gear ratios: Low: 21.2-9.86, Intermediate: 13.2-6.14, Top: 4.27.

Suspension:

Independent front suspension with torsion bars and transverse arms.

Rear suspension with semi-elliptical leaf springs made of manganese steel.

Telescopic shock absorbers at the front and rear.

Brakes:

Girling Dewandre brakes with vacuum assist.

12-inch drum brakes with an adjustable handbrake.

Total friction area: 179 square inches.

Wheels and Tires:

Steel wheels with chrome decorative rims.

Tires: Dunlop Super Comfort 6.70×16.

Spare tire stored with tools in a dedicated compartment.

Interior:

Luxurious 5- or 6-seat layout with four-door metal body and opening roof hatch.

Ventilation windows at the front, with secure rear door locks for child safety.

Seats upholstered in Vaumol leather with Dunlopillo foam cushioning.

Wooden trim crafted from walnut, with folding trays and ashtrays for rear passengers.

Two lockable glove compartments.

Thick wool carpets with a nylon rear mat.

Heating and Air Conditioning:

Heater with airflow control and windshield defroster.

Fuel System:

Two fuel tanks (8 and 9 gallons) with dashboard selector and twin S.U. fuel pumps.

Dimensions:

Length: 16’ 4 1/2”.

Wheelbase: 10’.

Width: 6’ 1”.

Height: 5’ 3”.

Ground clearance: 7 1/2”.

Turning circle: 36’.

Cargo Space:

Spacious 17 cubic-foot trunk with tool compartments.

Paint and Options:

Two-tone paint available in 12 combinations.

Production and Pricing:

Last model produced in December 1959.

Total produced: 6,312 (Right-hand drive: 4,644; Left-hand drive: 1,668).

Price: Approximately £1800.

Jaguar Mark VIII Photogallery