Jaguar MkII 240 Manual Overdrive

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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 while 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. Some would argue that the lighter engine gave it better handling and in later 240 form, as here, it also gained a straight port head which raised the power to 133bhp.

According to a letter from Jaguar dating from 1991, this MkII 240 left the works on 12th November 1968 destined for Henlys in London. Ordered in light blue with dark blue interior its history picks up in 1977 when it was purchased by a gentleman from Colchester. A Jaguar Enthusiasts Club member, he kept it until 1996 when it travelled north to reside in Redcar.

Its history file contains 11 old MOTs, the oldest of which dates from 1993 at which time the odometer read 30,105 miles. There are also several service bills from Hofmann’s of Henley for service work and a copy of the old V5. The current MOT expires in July 2015 and shows that it has covered 7,000 miles since 2011, the vendor advising us that the engine has been removed to attend to the front and rear gearbox seals. At the same time the clutch was replaced and while the engine was out, new rings, upper timing chain and big-end shells were fitted. The head was also converted for unleaded petrol.

It has recently had a thorough rustproofing and has been used regularly for short journeys on high days and holidays. Fitted with the desirable manual overdrive gearbox, this car is said to have a strong, lively performance from its 2.4-litre engine.