Jaguar MkII 2.4 MOD

Introduced in 1959, the MkII 2.4-litre provided the entry level for Jaguar's newly revised range of compact saloons. In production until 1967, over 25,000 were to be sold before the later 240 appeared, an interim model which was supplanted by the superb XJ6 within a year.

Although its bodyshell was very similar to the outgoing 2.4 and 3.4 models (now known as the MkI), the MkII had many styling improvements. Most significant was a comprehensive re-engineering above the waist-line. The front and rear screens were widened, whilst thinner pillars helped to increase the glass area by 18%. Other improvements included new lamps, a revised grille whilst inside a more effective heating system and dash layout completed the revamp.

Although the 2.4 is often unkindly thought of as being a trifle sluggish, in reality it performed well for the period and was only shown up against its brawnier 3.4 and 3.8 siblings. It shared the same magnificent twin cam, straight-six XK engine fitted with twin Solex carburetors, producing a healthy 120bhp and was capable of a genuine 100mph.

This superb 1964 example was purchased by the vendor five years ago after a long search for the right car, with just 48,000 miles on the odometer (a total which has now only risen by some 2,000 miles). Its previous owner, an engineer from Cheltenham, had purchased it in 1972 having covered just 25,000 miles. A copy of a letter on file dated 1993 states that he maintained and serviced the car himself and that it was completely original, unmodified and unrestored.  

The original log book shows that it was purchased new via Jones Garage in Llangollen, who in turn sourced it from Henlys in Manchester. The first owner was a well known butcher in the town, who kept it until July 1971, passing it to another Llangollen resident, who in turn passed it on to a gentleman from Church Stretton just 11 months later.  An original copy of an advertisement from this period states that it was well maintained and in excellent condition and was on offer for £545.  Just 7 months after that, the Cheltenham engineer, Mr Smith, purchased it in October 1972.

The Heritage Certificate confirms that it is a matching numbers example, dispatched from the factory on 25th November 1964. It was fitted with an over-drive and picnic tables and still retains its original warranty document, handbook, radio handbook as well as a collection of fascinating literature including an original spiral bound sales brochure, a full Jaguar service manual,  spare parts manual, an Autopress manual, Paul Skilleter’s excellent book on the Mk II Jaguar and a super fold-out lubrication chart. It even has its complete tool kit.

A comprehensive history file accompanies the car, including no less than 37 old MOT certificates and just about all of its tax discs. Its previous owner certainly had an eye for detail, with a large number of invoices, magazine cuttings, road tests and detailed correspondence with Jaguar Cars about a variety of small issues.

Certainly one of the nicest MkIIs that we have had the pleasure to offer, the vendor describes the panel fit as “excellent”, its lovely red leather interior and excellent woodwork complementing the Opalescent Grey paintwork which has just a few minor paint blemishes. A potential concours contender and regular prize winner at national level, this example has clearly been loved for a very long time indeed and will be driven some 70 miles to the sale.