Lot 557: 1968 Jaguar 240 Saloon

‘One of the most impressive sights today is the rapid and purposeful progress of a Mark 2 Jaguar on a motorway, eating up the miles in the fast lane. Like the nose of a bullet, the rounded frontal shape looks right for high speed, and the sheer velocity attained is usually exhilarating.’ - Autocar.
One of the most readily recognised cars of the 1960s, thanks in part to countless appearances in films and on television, Jaguar’s seminal Mk2 saloon set the standard for the class throughout its entire production life and today remains highly prized by enthusiasts. Introduced in September 1967, the 2.4-litre 240 and 3.4-litre 340 were the ultimate developments of this immensely successful model. Intended as new base models, the pair were barely distinguishable from each other, and differed from the final Mk2s by virtue of their Ambla upholstery (leather was now an option), slimmer bumpers, and the absence of built-in fog lamps. Only the 240 differed significantly from its 2.4-litre Mk2 predecessor, gaining a more-powerful version of the XK six. The latter was fitted with a 4.2-litre-type straight-port cylinder head, twin SU carburettors, and a dual exhaust system. The result was an increase in maximum power from 120 to 133bhp and a big improvement in performance; top speed increasing from 96 to 106mph, and the 0-60mph time being cut to 12.5 seconds. Only the 240 lasted, albeit briefly, into the XJ6 era, the 340 having been axed on the latter’s introduction in September 1968. Although ultimately not as fast as its larger-engined siblings, the 240 possesses all the style and refinement associated with Jaguar’s classic saloon; able to cruise comfortably in present-day traffic on motorways, the ‘2.4’ is also cheaper to insure and capable of delivering superior fuel consumption.
Believed delivered new to a local builder, this Jaguar 240 was bought from his family via a local garage circa 5-6 years ago. The car has been used only sparingly since acquisition, but nevertheless has been serviced and MoT’d regularly, and comes with the relevant invoices, including one for a replacement clutch in 2007. A desirable manual/overdrive-equipped model, the car is presented in running order and in good condition throughout, and is offered with current road fund licence, MoT to 31st May 2008 and Swansea V5 registration document.