When asked what special features he’d like added to his personal, custom 1961 Mk X, Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons didn’t request a souped-up engine, custom color or horn that played “God Save the Queen.”
What Lyons asked for first was one thing: electric rear windows, so he could have a cigarette while riding in the backseat — a custom Mrs. Lyons did not approve of.
That’s not to say Lyons’ signature sedan was without bells and whistles. Far from it.
His Mk X — one of the very first “Zenith” cars ever produced — was outfitted with a 3.8-liter, six-cylinder engine capable of hitting speeds of up to 120 MPH, a luxurious interior with leather trim, carpeted foot wells and walnut woodwork, flashy chrome bumpers and a vaned grill.
Lyons also asked that the backseat be equipped with airplane-style walnut seatback tables featuring angled mirrors that would “allow lady passengers to adjust their makeup.”
Can’t imagine Mrs. Lyons was too pleased with that part, either.
The special Mk X is hitting the block at the Silverstone Auctions’ Salon Privé Sale at Blenheim Palace in September, and is expected to fetch between $100,000 to $130,000.
They really don’t make ‘em like this one anymore.
Luckily, they do still make these.
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