Lot 030: 1963 JAGUAR MK2 3.8 LITRE

For many the definitive Jaguar sports saloon, the MKII was introduced in October 1959. A peerless blend of elegance and muscularity, its super sleek shape clothed an evolution of the Coventry marque's first monocoque design. Powered by derivatives of the same XK DOHC straight-six engine that had swept Jaguar to five Le Mans victories, the MKII was quick to dominate contemporary saloon car racing. Equipped with coil-and-wishbone independent front suspension, a leaf-sprung Salisbury rear axle and servo-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, the range-topping 3.8 boasted nearly seven times the horsepower of a Mini 850 and a 126mph top speed! Blessed with one of the all time great automotive interiors, its stylish instrumentation, rich wood veneers and sumptuous leather upholstery all conspired to cosset and cocoon occupants. According to its quoted chassis and engine numbers, 'JAS 956' began life as a Jaguar MK2 3.8 Litre Automatic saloon but has since been converted to four-speed manual plus overdrive transmission and fitted with a later Jaguar S-Type 3.8 Litre powerplant. Finished in blue with cream leather upholstery, it is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis) or "very good" (3.8 litre engine, interior trim, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) condition. Apparently benefiting from an engine overhaul, replacement wiring loom, fresh shock absorbers, sealed petrol tank, stainless steel exhaust and complete new brake system (utilising copper and stainless steel brake pipes) as part of "an extensive restoration over the last two years", the Jaguar is also understood to have been treated to a complete respray, cream hide retrim, re-veneered / re-polished woodwork and all new rubbers. Riding on steel wheels shod with fresh tyres, 'JAS 956' is said to have covered just 150 miles since work was completed. A well specified car, this smart MK2 is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 26th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax valid until October 2007.