Jaguar Motor Company began its journey as the **Swallow Sidecar Company** in **1922**. It was founded by **William Lyons** and **William Walmsley** in Blackpool, England¹². Initially, they focused on making motorcycle sidecars before transitioning to producing bodies for passenger cars.
Early Years
Jaguar’s origins trace back to 1922 when William Lyons and William Walmsley founded the Swallow Sidecar Company in Blackpool, England. Initially, the company focused on producing motorcycle sidecars.
Transition to Automobiles
In 1934, the company began manufacturing car bodies and was renamed SS Cars Limited. The first car to bear the Jaguar name was the SS Jaguar 2.5-litre saloon, launched in 1935.
Post-War Era
After World War II, the company changed its name to Jaguar Cars Limited in 1945 to avoid any associations with the Nazi SS. During this period, Jaguar gained a reputation for producing luxury saloons and sports cars, such as the Jaguar XK120.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Jaguar merged with the British Motor Corporation in 1966, forming British Motor Holdings. This entity later merged with Leyland Motor Corporation in 1968 to become British Leyland1. Jaguar was spun off from British Leyland in 1984 and listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Ford and Tata Ownership
In 1990, Jaguar was acquired by Ford Motor Company. Ford also acquired Land Rover in 2000, and both brands were sold to Tata Motors in 2008. Tata Motors then established Jaguar Land Rover as a subsidiary holding company.
Recent Developments
In 2013, Jaguar Cars was fully merged with Land Rover to form Jaguar Land Rover. The company has continued to innovate, announcing in 2021 that all cars made under the Jaguar brand will be fully electric by 2025.
Jaguar has a rich history of producing iconic vehicles and remains a significant player in the luxury automotive market.
POPULAR MODELS BY DECADE |
1950-59 During the 1950s, Jaguar produced several iconic models, but the Jaguar XK120 and Jaguar Mark VII were particularly popular.
Both models played a significant role in establishing Jaguar’s reputation for producing stylish and high-performance cars. |
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1960-69 During the 1960s, the Jaguar E-Type was undoubtedly the most popular and iconic model. Launched in 1961, the E-Type was celebrated for its stunning design, advanced technology, and high performance. Enzo Ferrari even called it "the most beautiful car ever made". It became an instant classic and remains one of the most recognizable sports cars in automotive history. Other notable models from the 1960s include the Jaguar Mark X, a luxurious saloon car introduced in 1961, and the Jaguar XJ6, which debuted in 1968 and was praised for its performance and refinement. |
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1970-79 During the 1970s, the Jaguar XJ6 and Jaguar XJ12 were the most popular models.
Both models were highly regarded for their combination of luxury and performance, solidifying Jaguar’s reputation in the automotive world. |
1980-89 During the 1980s, the Jaguar XJ-S and Jaguar XJ40 were the most popular models.
Both models played a significant role in maintaining Jaguar’s reputation for luxury and performance during the 1980s. |
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1990-99 During the 1990s, the Jaguar XJ (X300) and Jaguar XK8 were among the most popular models.
Both models played a significant role in maintaining Jaguar’s reputation for luxury and performance during the 1990s. |
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