Rolls-Royce (1931) Ltd took umbrage. Even though SS Jaguars were about a third of their price, any resemblance to a Bentley was irksome. More so once they began earning respect from bespoke coachbuilders. Chief development engineer WA Robotham decided to look more closely, since following Bentley Motors’ failure atCricklewood, they were now made at Derby. In 1937 Robotham had a £445 3½ Litre SS Jaguar purchased. Examination revealed the engine was just like one Rolls-Royce was about to use in its next Bentley. “The crankshaft has 2½in (6.35cm) journals and 2in (5.08cm) pins, exactly the dimensions we have in the Wraith.” It was also more compact, lighter, smoother and Robotham was even surprised to find two entirely independent exhausts. A Park Ward Bentley at the first newly opened Earls Court Motor Show was £1524.
What Robotham could not know was that he was laying the groundwork for Jaguars’ greatest asset, -refinement. Exemplary on the 1950s Mark VII, through to the unitaryannounced the flotation of SS Cars Ltd, with Lyons the majority shareholder, and he decided at once to have a self-contained technical department. After four interviews he engaged William Munger Heynes (1904-1989) on designing cars over which would report, “A distinguished appearance, outstanding performance and attractive price. They represent an achievement of which Mr Lyons, and his technical staff may feel proud.”
