Steadman TS100 Classic Cars for Sale

Introduction and History of the Steadman TS100

The Steadman TS100 was crafted in Cornwall by Ottercraft during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Unlike many attempts to recreate pre-war designs, the TS100 was never intended to be a mere replica of the 1930s SS100. Instead, it stands as an exclusive, hand-assembled sports car that merges classic aesthetics with modern engineering. The TS100 incorporates advanced construction techniques for its time, with an aluminium body—a nod to British coachbuilding traditions—mounted onto a robust steel tube frame. Its production run was brutally short: only 28 cars were assembled before the company’s insolvency in 1991, cementing its position as one of the rarest entries in British automotive history.

Model History

The Steadman TS100 has no direct predecessor or successor. While it draws inspiration from 1930s vehicles like the SS Jaguar 100, its construction and engineering are firmly rooted in late-20th-century solutions. Other projects aimed at capturing the SS100’s style typically relied on kit car solutions and fibreglass bodies, often forgoing Jaguar parts. By contrast, Steadman focused on delivering a complete, road-ready car with full Jaguar XJ6 mechanical integration and an exclusive, aluminium body. The build was limited and ceased with the company's closure in 1991.

Highlights of the Steadman TS100

The TS100’s unique appeal lies in its painstaking craftsmanship, rarity, and faithful yet distinctive homage to classic British sports cars. The aluminium body is mounted on a modernised steel frame, featuring a robust passenger cell and a heavy alloy firewall for safety. Underneath, it uses Jaguar XJ6 running gear—engines, axles, brakes, and steering—offering reliability and proven performance. Unlike typical period replicas, the Steadman is fully turn-key and homologated, not a DIY kit, embodying both exclusivity and usability.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Given the total production of just 28 cars, each Steadman TS100 is effectively a special edition. No further sub-variants or limited-run models were officially documented.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With Jaguar XJ6 drivetrains under the bonnet, the TS100 features robust inline-six engines, available in three displacements, and benefits from both manual and automatic options. Thanks to its chassis configuration—a twin-rail design with cross-bracing and Jaguar-sourced independent suspension—the TS100 delivers handling and comfort comparable to late-20th-century Jaguar saloons. This combination makes it uniquely driveable compared to kit-based rivals. The TS100 was only available as a single, highly bespoke model during its short production life. The most desirable specifications often include the larger 4.2-litre engine with manual transmission, replicating the classic sports car experience while maximizing Jaguar performance.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The TS100 takes styling cues from 1930s British roadsters but stands apart with its meticulously hand-shaped aluminium panels. The internal framework uses steel round and square tubing for rigidity, rather than the traditional ash wood, and a heavy aluminium firewall separates the engine from the cockpit. Details such as the hand-assembled cockpit and aluminium exterior give the car a uniquely artisan character. While special accessory packages or colour schemes are not widely documented, the base configuration reflects Ottercraft’s focus on authentic craftsmanship over mass production.

Summary

The Steadman TS100 epitomises the union of 1930s British sports car aesthetics and late-20th-century Jaguar technology. With only 28 handcrafted cars produced, each example embodies exclusivity and high build quality. Technical foundation on Jaguar XJ6 components ensures reliability and modern dynamics, while the hand-formed aluminium body pays homage to classic coachbuilding without imitating any single predecessor. This combination distinguishes the TS100 in the classic car world, making it a rare highlight for collectors and driving enthusiasts focused on distinctive British engineering.