Kougar classic cars for sale

History of Kougar

Kougar was established in the late 1960s, positioning itself as a niche sports car maker focusing on exclusivity and individuality. Despite impressive results in motorsport and strong performance figures, the brand remained largely unnoticed beside more established manufacturers. The company's recent development was marked by Simon Dunford, a Jaguar-trained sportscar restorer who, after a formative experience restoring a Kougar alongside Jaguars, eventually took ownership of Kougar. Inspired by its driving character and unique looks—qualities that surprised even seasoned Jaguar mechanics—Dunford has helped continue the Kougar tradition into the present day.

Model History

Kougar has consistently kept its model range slim, focusing on individuality and driving engagement. The flagship has always been the Kougar Sports, first introduced in 1969, which is still produced in its original open-wheel, lightweight design. The Sports line expanded with variants such as the Sports Exhaust, New Sports, and a track-focused Sports Racing model. Kougar's other primary series, the Monza, blends influences of classic Jaguar aesthetics—particularly the E-Type—with the option for V6, V8, or even V12 engines, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate more subtle styling combined with potent powertrains.

Highlights

Kougar vehicles showcase traditional British craftsmanship meshed with impressive tech from donor cars like the Jaguar XJ. Notable features include original inline six-cylinder engines, availability as both factory-builds and genuine kits, and the ongoing commitment to customization—including major technical upgrades. With a design focused on low weight and minimal bodywork, handling stays sharp and rewarding, even decades after launch.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Within the Kougar Sports family, models such as the Sports Racing and one-off factory-built cars—rather than kits—stand out for their increased performance, rarity, and historic provenance. Special attention is warranted for vehicles finished to customers’ technical specifications directly by Kougar’s works in the 1970s and 1980s.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Kougar Sports, especially with the 4.2-litre Jaguar engine, delivers a lively driving experience, with performance that took even experienced engineers by surprise on period test drives. Thanks to its very low weight and open-wheel design, response and agility are exceptional. Gearboxes and drivetrains typically depend on the donor Jaguar mechanicals, which means parts availability is reasonable and maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with period Jaguars. - Kougar Sports Mk I (Jaguar 4.2L inline-six): Celebrated for its mechanical directness and powerful character—especially coveted in non-kit, works-built specification.

• Kougar Monza (available with V6, V8, V12): The Monza’s broader engine options cater to enthusiasts who demand different balances of torque and refinement, all within a handsome, long-nosed silhouette.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Kougar’s aesthetics are driven by function: the Sports features freestanding wheels, virtually no excess bodywork, and a cockpit that is pure business—solid metal, essential instrumentation, and almost no compromise for comfort. Later Monza models exploit traditional British motifs, sporting elegantly long hoods in homage to the Jaguar E-Type. Special accessories and trim, such as wire wheels and leather upholstery, are dictated by original customer orders, underlining the made-to-measure nature of Kougar vehicles.

Summary

Kougar remains one of the rarest names among British-inspired sports cars, upholding the spirit of 1960s and '70s engineering through factory-built specimens and tailored kits. Today, the Kougar Sports Mk I continues to attract purists who appreciate its authentic chassis layout, potential for technical upgrades, and distinctive design. The near-total market share of the Sports Mk I in listings and searches highlights the enduring allure of this singular machine among dedicated collectors and drivers.