Jaguar buys UK classic car collection

The collection, assembled over many years by British dentist and car enthusiast James Hull, includes 543 vehicles, mainly of British origin, with most fully restored, too. Jaguar was drawn to the collection for its number of significant models from the company's own back catalogue, including XK SS, C, D and E-Types.

In addition to more than 130 Jaguars, covering all eras, the collection also includes "pre-Jaguar" Swallow sidecars and Swallow-coachbuilt Austin Sevens.

Jaguar says the cars in the collection will be actively used to support brand and marketing activities in existing and emerging markets. The first 'showing' for the classics now under Jaguar ownership is expected to be the global launch of the new Jaguar XE in early September.

How much Jaguar paid for the Hull collection has not been revealed, but prior to the sale, it had been estimated to be worth _100 million (AU$170M approx.).