Jaguar S-Type 3.8 Manual Overdrive

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In 1963 Jaguar decided to introduce a new variant of its popular MkII model, the luxurious S-Type saloon, aimed at Jaguar drivers looking for slightly more sophistication than the Mk II could offer. 

The S-Type came with either a 3.4 or 3.8-litre XK engine, with a modified version of the MkII bodyshell with unique front and rear ends added. The front had its own distinctive grille, shrouded headlamps and a slim-line bumper. The rear looked very similar to the large MkX saloon and had similar independent suspension which gave much superior ride and handling characteristics to the outgoing MkII – although at the expense of the latter's raw-edged sporting appeal.

In 3.8-litre manual overdrive form, the S-Type provided sparkling performance, sprinting from 0 to 60mph in under 10 seconds with a top speed of 127mph. Production ceased in 1968 when the XJ6 arrived.

In overall very sound condition, this 1966 3.8-litre S-Type needs some love and care to bring it back to its full glory. The Jaguar has spent the last 10 years of its life in the warm, dry climate of Andalucía, where it has been garaged and used infrequently. The car reportedly starts and runs, but does not drive due to a clutch problem – the fluid pipes have split.

The body is straight with good panel gaps, but there is some bubbling in small areas, including the bottom of the nearside door. The red leather interior is as sumptuous as you could wish for and is set off beautifully against the dark blue paintwork

The car retains its original hand book and manuals, and carries a significant history file. This includes a photographic record of a restoration within the last 10 years. Only reluctantly being sold to help settle the affairs of its late ex-policeman owner (who had owned it for 14 years), it will make a smart and swift sports saloon once treated to the modest remedial works now required.