Lot 116: 1961 Jaguar Mk II Saloon

Although the Mk I was a great success, selling four times as many as the larger Jaguar saloons, Jaguar boss William Lyons was not content. He knew it could be improved. Happily, virtually every aspect that had been criticised received attention in the new MkII range introduced in October 1959. These cars were to rank among the best loved Jaguars ever made and are today regarded as classics. The changes that were most obvious were in the car's appearance. The windows were made larger, mainly by using slender roof supports now that it had become evident that those on the MkI were thicker than necessary. The rear axle was also made much wider to remove the crab-tracked appearance, with the result that the new car's stability margin was greater. There were other detail changes, including a redesigned interior that was more modern but retained the traditional Jaguar image.Today's example is presented complete with stainless steel twin exhausts as well as new brakes and refurbished wire wheels all round. Other recent works include a new water pump and complete carburation system overhaul. Used daily, this eminently affordable classic represents extremely good value.