Jaguar Century: 100 Years of Automotive Excellence

‘Jaguar Century: 100 Years of Automotive Excellence’ is written by Giles Chapman, a highly respected motor journalist and automotive historian. It is a detailed history of the Jaguar marque from the founding of the Swallow Sidecar Company by William Lyons and William Walmsley in 1922 through to its transformation into one of the auto industries most revered brands - a vehicle that combined high performance and luxury.‘JaguarCentury’ is packed full of photos and images of the development of the marque including the earliest Jaguars through to today’s. It also looks to the future as the company moves to producing all-electric Jaguars. Along the way Chapman provides in-depth analyses of each model.More mundane concerns linked to the history of the company’s finances and the various changes in ownership and locations are also detailed. While less exciting than its racing cars and the development of its various models, these aspects give an indication of why certain decisions were taken.I gained a lot of knowledge from reading this book, including that a Jaguar E-type had been acquired for MOMA’s permanent collection as ‘sculpture in movement’.Jaguars are by far my favourite motor vehicle; even though well outside of my means. I recall my first trip in one and the smoothness of the ride like nothing I had experienced. I commented to the driver that it was like being driven about on a cloud.Overall, a fascinating read. I expect that it is the kind of nonfiction book that will appeal to librarians as well as those interested in the history of the motor vehicle industry.This beautifully presented hardback edition would make a perfect gift for a motor vehicle enthusiast.