LAKELAND Motor Museum has been showing off their most beloved vehicles this week which both pre-date 1940 and reached speeds that were thought outlandish in their day.

Two of the most popular vintage vehicles at the Lakeland Motor Museum epitomise 1930s speed and glamour; a rare SS Jaguar 100 and a 1935 Singer 9Hp Le Mans that once wowed the crowds on the race track.

The sporty SS Jaguar 100 was first manufactured in 1937 and fewer than 200 vehicles were ever made. In its day, this slick two-seater reached speeds of 100 mph - exceptionally fast in the 1930s, when many vehicles struggled to sustain 50mph.

The car was loaned to the Motor Museum by a Manchester couple with a strong affinity to the Lake District, after more than 60 years in continuous ownership.

This particular car was tested by the Motor Magazine in May 1937, then by Autocar in July. It also completed the 1937 RAC rally, helping to win the manufacturer’s team prize.

Originally marketed for its ‘accurate steering and safety at speed’, the car’s very low centre of gravity meant it was less likely to overturn by cornering at high speed.

Meanwhile, the 1935 Singer 9Hp Le Mans was named in honour of the famous racing venue, after the previous model - known as a Bantam - did well at the 1933 Le Mans 24-hour race.

This Special Speed version included sporty modifications such as twin SU carburettors and was a favourite with the really serious competitors tackling long distance trials.

The racing sensation which makes its home at the Lakeland Motor Museum was part of a trio known as the ‘Ruddy Trials Team’ which won a series of competition medals during the 1935 racing season.

Originally patriotically painted in red, white and blue, the vehicle has been restored with a gleaming red exterior.

Manager of the Lakeland Motor Museum, Chris Lowe, said: “This Singer was one of the key high-performance cars of the inter-war period and its real racing forte came in long distance trials.

"At the same time, many people regard the SS Jaguar 100 as one of the most eye-catching Jaguar cars ever made – it is certainly one of the rarest.

“Both are prestigious cars on long-term loan and we’re looking forward to welcoming people back to see them very soon.”

Online bookings for the Lakeland Motor Museum are currently available from May 17 to August 312021 at: www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk