The SS 1 (the top of its radiator says 'SS One') is a British two-door sports saloon and tourer built by Swallow Coachbuilding Company in Foleshill, Coventry, England. It was first presented to the public at the 1931 London Motor Show. In slightly modified form, it went on to be manufactured between 1932 and 1936,1934 Jaguar SS1 Bonhams- The December sale 2015 www.classicdriver.com, accessed 5 October 2019 Cliff Chambers/ Ellen Dewar: SS1 Saloon Review 08.10.2017 www.tradeuniquecars.com.au,, accessed 5 October 2019 during which time 148 cars were built.
The Company William Lyons and Co, as SS Cars Limited, purchased Swallow at the end of July 1934. In 1945 SS Cars changed its name to Jaguar Cars Limited.
The Car The SS 1 was noted for its apparent value for money and its attractive appearance, rather than its performance. From 1932 until 1934 it used either a 15HP six-cylinder side-valve Standard engine of 2,054 cc with or a 20HP, 2,552 cc version. The two engines were enlarged to 2,143 cc and or 2,663 cc and respectively for the 1934 to 1936 models. The chassis was also made by Standard and was changed to underslung suspension in 1933. With a top speed of , the cars were remarkable for their styling and low cost rather than their performance. In 1932 the basic coupé cost £310. Just over 4,200 cars were made.
Developments The car was initially supplied as a four-seater fixed head coupé. In 1933 a tourer was launched. For 1934 the chassis was modified to give a wider track and better front footwells. The gearbox also gained synchromesh. In 1934 a saloon version and in 1935 an Airline coupé and drophead coupé were added to the range.
Specifications The car was long and wide and typically weighed around . The width increased to in 1934.
Pictures
References
External links SS 1 fixed head coupé sales brochure instruction leaflet for the R.A.G. carburetter as used on all SS cars with the original side valve Standard engines