Lot 601: Jaguar MkII

The Jaguar Mk VII saloon and the XK sports car dominated two sectors of the high performance car market in the early 1950s. In order to increase this share further, Jaguar developed a sporting medium-sized saloon. The resultant design was to be one of Jaguar's most successful cars, the Mk I of 1955, which was subsequently updated to the Mk II in 1959. This car, with the optional 3.8 litre 220 bhp engine was to be the ultimate Jaguar saloon. The Mk II range encompassed many important changes; larger windows enhanced the car's appearance, the interior was vastly improved, the rear axle was widened and disc brakes were a welcome addition. There was a warning badge on the rear bumper denoting the exceptional stopping power these offered. Described by the vendor as being in "outstanding condition, chassis 157907 was first registered in 1962 and has recently been the subject of a major refurbishment. This included a full reconditioning of the engine (using new or reconditioned parts throughout), and new wiring loom, new fuel system, new braking system and new heating and cooling systems all installed. A new Borg-Warner Type 35 gearbox and a Vicarage rack-and-pinion power steering system have also been fitted, helping the car to hold its own in modern road conditions. Cosmetically, it has benefitted from new outer panels and a bare-metal re-spray in Jaguar opalescent blue. The interior has also been thoroughly refurbished, and is described by the vendor as being in excellent order. In addition, the majority of the chrome has been restored or replaced as appropriate. The car has also been fitted with front and rear seatbelts. Supplied with a V5 document and a current MoT test certificate valid until April 2010, this iconic British car is sits on chrome wire wheels and is ready to be enjoyed.