At DRIVESHARE, we love to celebrate the unique stories behind every classic car and its passionate owner. This week, we are excited to feature Mark Wherrett and his magnificent 1960 Jaguar Mk9, affectionately known as Gordon. This beautiful car is listed on BookAclassic, part of the DRIVESHARE family, and is located in Manchester, England, UK.
How did you come to own your 1960 Jaguar Mk9?
I purchased the car in 2018 for occasional use as a wedding car. Originally registered in May 1960 to James Thomson & Son, which was the oldest clothing business existent in the city of Glasgow, its history dating back to the third decade of the eighteenth century. The car was originally registered along with the reissued Glasgow mark G2770 (for which a £5 fee was paid at the time).
What do you enjoy most about your Jaguar Mk9?
I’ve hire Gordon out as a wedding car in the Greater Manchester, Liverpool and Cheshire areas of England, although we did drive him up to Fife, Scotland for a family wedding. I think Gordon typifies the 'Space, Grace and Pace' epithet often attributed to Jaguars.
Can you share some memorable experiences you've had with your car?
The most memorable experience was driving up to Fife from Manchester to use the car at my sister-in-law's wedding. They got some lovely pictures taken along with Gordon. We also travelled with him to Blackpool in 2022 where he was displayed in the Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club's Centenary event at the bottom of Blackpool Tower. I regularly display Gordon at car shows in the Manchester and Cheshire area as an active member of the Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club's Cheshire Region.
How do you maintain your Jaguar Mk9?
The car is stored and is mostly maintained by me at home. As with any classic car of Gordon's age, there's always something that requires attention or maintenance.
What upgrades have been made to the car?
The car has been upgraded with a modern ZF automatic gearbox, this was done prior to my ownership. I like the fact that a previous owner of the car added a drinks cabinet in the back.
How do you feel about using your car for weddings?
I find it really enjoyable using this car for weddings as it makes a great visual impact and provides plenty of room in the back for the brides' dresses. It's great to be part of a happy couple's most special day.
Mark’s story is a testament to the passion that our owners have for their classic cars. Gordon the Jaguar Mk9 is not just a car; it is a piece of history, lovingly maintained and shared with others to create new memories. For more details, check out Mark's BookAclassic listing here.
Stay tuned for more owner spotlights, where we continue to celebrate the amazing people and cars that make the DRIVESHARE community.