Jaguar 340

History

The Jaguar 240 and 340 models are often unfavourably compared to their earlier Mk2 siblings because they are perceived as cost-cutting models due to their slimmer bumpers, lack of front fog lights and Ambla, rather than leather, interiors. However they more than compensate for these 'shortcomings' by virtue of their sweeter and more powerful engines. Thanks to a new straight port cylinder head and twin SU carbs, a 240 is noticeably quicker than a 2.4 and a 340 has at least the performance of the old 3.8.

First registered in October 1967, this 340 has always lived in the local area since it was supplied new by Steels of Hereford. The engine and gearbox are said to have been rebuilt by Forward Engineering about 12 years ago, but the invoices for this work have long since been lost. The odometer was reset to zero when the rebuild was carried out and is now reading just 5,880 miles.

The engine certainly fired up readily on the occasion of our visit and sounded very healthy. Due to have a fresh MOT before the sale, the car is said to drive very well and comes with its original owner's handbook and service log from Steels.