In 1951 Jaguar discontinued the Mk V and started production on its first new post-war sedan. The Mk VII starred at the fall, 1950 Earls Court Motor Show in London. To British motorists not used to the large scale, the car seemed enormous. At a shade over 16 feet long, it was just right for the US. The new car was built on the sturdy, modern chassis developed for the Mk V. The MK VII is a full five passenger car with a large trunk and a smooth ride. Well padded leather seats, walnut dash and other interior trim plus high quality wool carpet gave it a standard of luxury not found even in American limousines. It was perfectly suited for highway cruising but the handling and power was sufficient to make it a very successful racing and rally car.