The 1934 SS Jaguar 2 Tourer represents a fascinating chapter in the early history of one of Britain’s most celebrated sporting marques. Produced by the Swallow Coachbuilding Company under the direction of William Lyons, these elegant pre-war motor cars helped establish the design philosophy that would eventually define Jaguar: striking styling, sporting character and exceptional value for money. With its long, sweeping bonnet, low-slung profile and beautifully proportioned open coachwork, the SS Jaguar 2 Tourer captures the glamour and sophistication of British motoring during the 1930s.

At a time when many manufacturers concentrated on conventional and conservative designs, William Lyons recognised the appeal of a motor car that looked considerably more expensive than its asking price. The SS models combined distinctive coachwork with established mechanical components, delivering an attractive balance of style, performance and affordability. The open Tourer, in particular, offered an exhilarating motoring experience, combining the elegance of traditional British craftsmanship with the freedom and sporting appeal of open-air driving. These early SS motor cars would ultimately lay the foundations for the legendary Jaguar name and the remarkable sporting machines that followed.

Today, surviving examples of these early SS Tourers are highly prized for their rarity, historical importance and unmistakable presence. Representing the formative years of the Jaguar story, they offer collectors and enthusiasts a tangible connection to the vision and ambition of William Lyons, whose influence would shape British automotive design for decades. With their graceful lines, distinctive period detailing and undeniable pre-war charm, these remarkable motor cars remain highly desirable examples of Britain’s rich motoring heritage, particularly appealing to collectors who appreciate the origins of the Jaguar marque.

An Exceptionally Rare Piece of Jaguar Heritage – Rarity, Provenance & Historical Significance

The 1934 SS Jaguar 2 Tourer presented here is an exceptionally rare and historically significant example of early British sporting motoring. During the late 1960s, when collectors began recognising the importance of early SS motor cars, attention was largely directed towards the more glamorous six-cylinder models, whose values subsequently increased dramatically. The smaller four-cylinder Tourers were frequently overlooked, regarded by some as the lesser members of the SS family. Time, however, has brought a greater appreciation of their beautifully balanced proportions, distinctive styling and remarkable scarcity.

Today, these early four-cylinder Tourers are regarded by knowledgeable enthusiasts as particularly desirable examples of William Lyons’ developing design philosophy. Their elegant contours, lighter proportions and unmistakable sporting character give them a distinctive appeal within the pre-war SS family. Research supplied with this vehicle suggests that approximately twelve examples are known to survive worldwide, with this particular car believed to be the only surviving example in the Southern Hemisphere. The remaining known examples are understood to be located in Europe and the United States. While these figures warrant confirmation against current marque records, they highlight the extraordinary rarity and collector significance of this motor car.

New Zealand History & Restoration

The history of this particular SS is as fascinating as the motor car itself. First registered in New Zealand on 17 January 1939, it had reportedly passed through at least forty owners by the time it was acquired by its previous long-term custodian in 1968. Unfortunately, by then the car was in very poor condition, having suffered extensive modifications to its original bodywork, damage to its chassis, incorrect instrumentation and an engine considered beyond economical repair.

An initial complete strip-down revealed the enormous scale of the restoration required, and the project was subsequently placed in storage. It was not until approximately 1985 that a serious programme of reconstruction commenced. With the chassis carefully realigned, the body framework renewed and a replacement engine installed, the project gradually began to take shape. Countless hours of dedicated workmanship eventually resulted in the remarkable motor car presented today.

Importantly, the restoration was undertaken with the intention of preserving the original character, appearance and engineering philosophy of the vehicle while incorporating selected mechanical improvements to enhance its usability. The result is a beautifully proportioned and characterful pre-war Tourer that has subsequently demonstrated its reliability and roadworthiness, providing its custodians with many years of enjoyable vintage motoring.

Vehicle Highlights

• 1934 SS Jaguar 2 Tourer – exceptionally rare four-cylinder open Tourer.
• Outstanding historical significance – an early example of the SS marque and William Lyons’ distinctive design philosophy.
• Extremely limited survival – approximately twelve examples believed to remain worldwide, according to research accompanying the vehicle.
• Potentially unique in the Southern Hemisphere – believed to be the only surviving example in this region.
• Established New Zealand history – first registered on 17 January 1939.
• Remarkable ownership history – reportedly passed through at least forty New Zealand owners before its acquisition in 1968.
• Long-term restoration project – extensive reconstruction commenced around 1985 following an earlier strip-down.
• Chassis and body restoration – chassis realigned and body framework renewed.
• Original chassis and running gear retained – preserving important elements of the vehicle’s original engineering.
• Period-appropriate mechanical improvements – selected modifications made to improve performance and touring usability.
• Proven roadworthiness – reported to have performed reliably following its restoration.
• Award-winning presentation – multiple concours achievements at recognised vintage and Jaguar events.
• Distinctive open coachwork – beautifully balanced proportions and classic pre-war sporting elegance.

Mechanical Specifications & Modifications

While the vehicle retains its original chassis and principal running gear, certain mechanical modifications were incorporated during restoration to improve performance, reliability and practical usability. These changes are worth detailing, particularly for collectors who value transparency regarding originality.

• Engine: Later Standard 14hp four-cylinder engine block replacing the original 10hp unit.
• Engine Capacity: Enlarged to approximately 1,820cc through overboring.
• Engine Accessories: Original 10hp accessories retained and fitted to the replacement engine, with the exception of the carburettor arrangement.
• Carburettors: Twin SU carburettors, identified as Type D3 in the supplied information.
• Engine Breathing: Modified breathing system fitted.
• Harmonic Balancer: Installed on the front crankshaft pulley.
• Engine Performance: Modifications intended to extend the usable engine speed range to approximately 4,500rpm.
• Rear Axle: Final-drive ratio altered to take advantage of the additional torque produced by the larger-capacity engine.
• Braking System: Original cable-operated braking system retained.
• Electrical System: 12-volt battery.
• Distributor: Lucas DKH4.0, Type V49.
• Tyres: Goodrich 4.75/5.00-18.
• Recommended Fuel: 95-octane petrol.

These modifications were undertaken with the objective of retaining the authentic appearance and character of the original SS while making the motor car more accommodating for modern vintage touring. They should be regarded as sympathetic mechanical upgrades rather than factory-original specifications.

Period Features & Touring Equipment

The SS Tourer was designed to offer an appealing combination of sporting elegance, practicality and open-air motoring enjoyment. Its distinctive coachwork and thoughtful period detailing reflect the attention given to both appearance and functionality.

Particular features include:

• Leather-grained luggage trunk with substantial chromium-plated hinged security catches and generous luggage accommodation.
• Removable side curtains, designed to be rigidly secured and provide effective protection against draughts and inclement weather.
• Independent side-curtain installation, allowing the curtains to be erected without necessarily raising the folding hood.
• Elegant open Tourer bodywork, combining sporting proportions with practical touring accommodation.
• Distinctive pre-war styling, reflecting the individuality and craftsmanship for which early SS motor cars became renowned.

Concours & Award History

The quality of the restoration and presentation has been recognised through several notable concours achievements:

• 5 March 2000 – 1st Place: South Canterbury Vintage Car Club Concours, Class Winner, on its first competitive outing.
• 2000 – Equal 3rd Place: National Jaguar Rally, Queenstown, Early SS or Jaguar Concours.
• 2009 – 1st Place: South Canterbury Vintage Car Club PV/PWV/P60V Rally Concours.

These results provide valuable evidence of the car’s presentation and the considerable effort invested in its reconstruction.

The SS Philosophy – Individuality, Quality & Sporting Character

From the outset, SS motor cars were promoted as something distinctly different from the conventional automobiles of their era. Whether buyers preferred enclosed luxury or the freedom of open touring, the marque offered a combination of elegance, individuality and sporting appeal that set it apart from many of its contemporaries.

William Lyons understood that discerning motorists wanted more than simply transportation. They sought a motor car that reflected their individuality, offered genuine engineering quality and delivered a rewarding driving experience. At a time when price was increasingly becoming the dominant consideration in the motor industry, SS placed considerable emphasis on style, craftsmanship and the relationship between appearance and performance.

The company’s early promotional philosophy celebrated the experienced motorist who appreciated responsive acceleration, effortless control and the ability to undertake long journeys in comfort. Although the performance claims associated with the broader SS range varied considerably between models, the underlying message was unmistakable: SS motor cars were designed for individuals who appreciated something out of the ordinary.

A Remarkable Collector’s Opportunity

Few surviving pre-war motor cars combine such rarity, fascinating provenance, distinctive coachwork and historical importance. This 1934 SS Jaguar 2 Tourer represents an extraordinary connection to the formative years of William Lyons’ automotive ambitions, long before Jaguar became one of the world’s most celebrated sporting marques.

Its extensive New Zealand history, decades-long restoration journey, documented concours achievements and sympathetic mechanical improvements make it a particularly interesting proposition for the serious enthusiast. While the replacement engine and associated modifications should be considered when assessing originality, they also contribute to the vehicle’s practical touring character.

Believed to be one of only approximately twelve surviving examples worldwide, and potentially the only example in the Southern Hemisphere, this remarkable SS Tourer offers a rare opportunity to acquire a genuinely distinctive piece of British motoring heritage.

A beautiful, historically important and exceptionally uncommon pre-war motor car, deserving of a knowledgeable and appreciative next custodian.

Pre-war SS motor cars occupy a particularly distinguished position within the international collector car market, representing the origins of what would become one of Britain’s most celebrated luxury and sporting marques, Jaguar. Produced in relatively limited numbers during the 1930s, these elegant automobiles embody the design philosophy of William Lyons, combining striking coachwork, sporting character and an unmistakable sense of British sophistication. Today, their appeal extends well beyond conventional vintage motoring enthusiasts, attracting established Jaguar collectors, motoring historians and discerning buyers seeking historically significant automobiles. Their association with the formative years of Jaguar gives them an enduring heritage value, while their rarity, distinctive Art Deco styling and craftsmanship place them firmly within the prestigious international pre-war collector market.

International demand for early SS motor cars is particularly evident in the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand, where established Jaguar enthusiast communities and specialist collectors recognise their historical significance. Values vary considerably according to model, body style, originality, condition and provenance, with open Tourers and Drophead Coupés generally commanding stronger prices than conventional saloons. The market is specialised, and buyers increasingly place a premium on documented history, authentic coachwork, matching mechanical components and quality restoration. Unlike more commonplace pre-war automobiles, early SS cars benefit from their direct connection to Jaguar’s internationally recognised heritage, giving them a distinctive position within the luxury collector market.

The 1934 SS Jaguar 2 Tourer is especially appealing within this context, combining elegant open coachwork, genuine pre-war rarity and considerable historical significance. As an early expression of William Lyons’ design ambitions, it represents far more than an attractive antique motor car; it is a tangible link to the beginnings of a marque that would later achieve worldwide recognition through its legendary sporting and luxury automobiles. With surviving examples becoming increasingly difficult to source, well-preserved and correctly presented cars offer strong long-term collector interest, although appreciation in value can never be guaranteed. For the discerning enthusiast, ownership provides a rare combination of international collectibility, exclusivity, British motoring heritage and the pleasure of preserving an important chapter in Jaguar history. It is precisely this combination of rarity, historical importance and enduring desirability that makes early SS motor cars such fascinating and potentially rewarding additions to a serious classic car collection.

New Zealand Sales
Unless otherwise stated, vehicles sold for use in New Zealand will be supplied with a new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and 12 months New Zealand registration at the time of sale.

Transport & Shipping
New Zealand transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged on the Buyer’s behalf and at the Buyer’s cost and risk. Any freight, shipping, insurance, customs charges, duties, taxes, import costs, certification or compliance costs are the responsibility of the Buyer unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Export Sales
For vehicles purchased for export, the Buyer is responsible for determining and satisfying all import, registration, certification, compliance, tax and regulatory requirements applicable in the destination country.

Viewing
All vehicle inspections and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

Applicable Law
All sales are subject to applicable New Zealand law. Nothing in these Conditions of Sale excludes or limits any statutory rights or obligations that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.

For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime, or contact us through the form below.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.

NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993

Waimak Group Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”. Waimak Group Ltd is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Group Ltd does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Group Ltd.

The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.