How Jaguar Became a Symbol of British Luxury & Performance
The Birth of a British Automotive Icon
Jaguar started life in 1922 as the Swallow Sidecar Company, founded by William Lyons and William Walmsley in Blackpool. The company first built motorcycle sidecars before moving to car bodies. It was in 1935 that the Jaguar name first appeared on a sports saloon built by SS Cars Ltd, with the company changing its name to Jaguar Cars Ltd in 1945 after World War II.
From these modest beginnings, Jaguar grew into one of the most successful British car makers. The combination of outstanding design, high-performance engines and craftsmanship helped build a brand known worldwide for luxury and sporting credentials.
The Post-War Success
The post-war period saw Jaguar rise to international fame. The XK120, launched at the 1948 London Motor Show, was the fastest production car of its time. With its stunning looks and 120 mph top speed (hence the name), it caught the attention of wealthy buyers and motorsport fans alike.
William Lyons had a clear vision: to create cars with 'grace, pace and space' at prices that undercut similar cars from other makers. This philosophy guided Jaguar through decades of growth and success.
Racing Glory Builds the Performance Legacy
Jaguar's racing success cemented its reputation for performance. The company won the Le Mans 24 Hours race five times between 1951 and 1957, with the C Type and D Type racing cars. These victories proved Jaguar could compete with and beat established names like Ferrari, Alfa Romeo and Mercedes Benz.
The racing technology filtered down to road cars, giving owners a taste of that winning performance. This racing heritage remains part of Jaguar's DNA today and helped establish the marque as more than just another luxury car maker.
Iconic Models That Defined an Era
The E Type: A Design Masterpiece
The E Type was launched in 1961, and Enzo Ferrari described it as 'the most beautiful car ever made'. Its stunning looks, 150 mph performance and reasonable price made it an instant success. The E Type showed that Jaguar could make cars that were both beautiful and advanced.
The XJ6: Setting New Standards for Luxury
The XJ6, introduced in 1968, set new standards for refinement and comfort. With its silky smooth engines and outstanding ride quality, it became the benchmark for luxury saloons. The XJ6 and its successors continued as the flagship of the Jaguar range for decades.
The Modern Era: XF, XJ, F Type
Modern Jaguars like the XF, XJ and F Type continue to offer the distinctive blend of performance, luxury and style that made the brand famous. Even as technology advances, these cars maintain the essential Jaguar character that appeals to buyers worldwide.
Jaguar Timeline: A History of British Excellence
- 1922: Swallow Sidecar Company founded
- 1935: First use of the Jaguar name on the SS Jaguar 2.5L Saloon
- 1945: Company renamed Jaguar Cars Limited
- 1948: XK120 sports car launched
- 1951: C Type wins Le Mans 24 Hours
- 1954: D Type racing car introduced
- 1955, 1956, 1957: D Type wins Le Mans
- 1961: E Type launched at Geneva Motor Show
- 1968: XJ6 saloon introduced
- 1975: XJS replaces the E Type
- 1989: XJ220 supercar revealed
- 1996: XK8 sports car launched
- 2008: Tata Motors acquires Jaguar from Ford
- 2013: F Type sports car launched
- 2018: I PACE all-electric SUV introduced
Why Choose Rimmer Bros for Parts for Jaguar
Since adding Jaguar to our range in 2012, Rimmer Bros has built a reputation for quality parts and outstanding service for Jaguar owners. With over 40 years of British motor parts experience, we understand what matters to Jaguar owners.
Our 105,000-square-foot warehouse in Lincoln houses thousands of parts for Jaguars, across multiple models. You benefit from our fast mail-order service, supplying the UK, Europe and 195 worldwide destinations.
The Rimmer Bros Advantage
Extensive Stock Range
We stock parts for a wide range of Jaguar models. Our computerised stock control system ensures we rarely run low on stock, meaning you can get the parts you need when you need them.
Quality You Can Trust
We offer genuine Jaguar parts alongside quality aftermarket alternatives. This gives you options to suit your needs and budget while maintaining the quality your Jaguar deserves.
Knowledge and Experience
Our sales advisors have over 1,000 years of combined experience. They know Jaguars inside and out, offering guidance and advice to help you find the right part for your car.
Fast, Worldwide Delivery
Whether you live in the UK or anywhere around the world, we provide the same high levels of service. Our efficient ordering and 'wireless warehouse' stock control systems allow for same-day despatch whenever possible.
Dedicated to British Motoring Heritage
As a company with British Motor Heritage Approval for many marques, we are committed to keeping classic British cars on the road. Our support for Jaguar cars continues this tradition of preserving British automotive history.
The Jaguar story is one of vision, design excellence and engineering innovation. From its humble beginnings to global recognition as a symbol of British automotive achievement, Jaguar continues to capture the imagination of car lovers worldwide.
At Rimmer Bros, we are proud to play our part in keeping these magnificent cars running. With our extensive parts range, knowledge and fast service, we help Jaguar owners maintain the performance, luxury and character that make these cars so special.