Jaguar: The Complete Illustrated History

by Philip Porter

The Jaguar story is an exciting one. This comprehensive and entertaining history traces the development of the company from its humble beginnings in Blackpool, where it made Swallow sidecars, through to the latest XJ6 models. Much has happened to Jaguar since the first edition of this work was published, not least, its controversial takeover by Ford. This is the full story covering the early days, the production models, competition activities and the personalities behind the success of the company. It places on record some fascinating recollections of people and events. The recent turbulent times of world recession and fluctuating currency markets which nearly brought Jaguar to its knees are also recalled.

191 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2002

About the author

Philip Porter is the author of around 30 motoring books. In an action-packed life, he started competing in hillclimbs and sprints while still at school, winning 10 of his 12 events in 1970 in his full-race Sprite. Bitten by the classic car bug, he bought five Jaguar XKs in 1973 (four of which he still has) and his historic E-types (9600 HP, the oldest E-type which was the development, launch, press car, and 848 CRY, the '61 racer and roadster in the film The Italian Job) in 1976. He began writing articles and books in the mid-'80s. In parallel he began flying hot air balloons and airships competitively (European Airship Championships Silver Medallist) and was the first person ever to fly an airship in Africa. He has twice been Chairman of the Sherlock Holmes Society and in 1997 he and his wife Julie formed the International Jaguar XK Club, the Jaguar E-type Club following in 2004. In 2005, he created Porter Press International, which is now one of the world's leading motoring publishers thanks to the amazing team with which Philip is immensely proud to work.