Jaguar MK IX

A little while ago, I was lucky enough to be offered a job working for Jack Welch. 'Neutron Jack' they called him, for his ability to wipe out large numbers of staff but leave the offices standing. Some would say he's the prototype modern CEO, ruling with an iron rod, but managing to engage the affections of those who matter. Some tough old sods can also be visionaries, and Sir William Lyons was also cast from the same mould.

He was always the ultimate authority when it came to Jaguar, save for allowing his wife Greta an approving final look on a finishing design. There are those who worked with him who would shiver when he walked past, but he goes down as the guy who brought out some truly fabulous cars. From motorbikes to Swall Sidecars to rebodying Austin Sevens, like all the top guys he had immense drive, making Jaguar a relevant company.

Right now, the car industry could do with more effective leadership and management it seems. There seems to be fewer of the visionaries in the industry and more chumps elevated into positions until the Peter Principle kicks in. However......

The Mk IX is not a hugely significant car in the Jaguar Lexicon. It's not irrelevant, not by a long shot, but it's no E-Type, XK or XJ6. It is however, another example of the great cars this country used to produce....

10003 made. 3.8 litre, 220 bhp. Production was finished in September '61. Burl wood, Connolly hides, Wilton carpets. Art Deco inspired body panels. 'Grace, Space and Pace......'