Lot 760: 1963 Jaguar MkII 3.4 Automatic Saloon

The 1956 launched Jaguar 2.4, quickly followed by a 3.4-litre version, marked the first of a new generation of smaller, sports saloons from Jaguar to employ unitary construction for their body-shells. By 1959, however, a MkII version incorporating many revisions, most notably a wider rear track, thinner pillars and disc brakes, and with three engine options, was to make an even bigger impression with car buyers and owner-drivers in motor sport, particularly in touring car racing. The rousing weekend exploits of the Tommy Sopwith Equipe Endeavour and John Coombes Team Jaguars will still be remembered to this day by all who witnessed them at Silverstone and here at Goodwood. Having such a racy image ensured that the MkII became the wheels of choice of both screen villains and heroes during the 1960s, while the model’s iconic status has become even more enduring thanks to even more international exposure in the hands of the late Inspector Morse.

Produced at the Browns Lane factory in 1963, this home market MkII Saloon with legendary 3.4-litre XK 6-cylinder engine, variable-type power-assisted steering and Borg Warner 3-speed automatic transmission, was first registered for the road on the 14th of March of that year. Changes from standard specification include chrome wire wheels and Reutter reclining front seats with picnic tables in wood on the backs of both. An added steering lock and the radio would also appear to be period items. We are advised that the 4-door bodywork has been in recent receipt of a bare metal repaint in Jaguar Racing Green. Particularly pleasing inside is the tan leather, which is likely to be original and is remarkably good order. The wood veneers have benefited from some re-finishing and the headlining, fur-flex and carpets have been renewed.

Various invoices from Jaguar parts specialists give details of many items purchased for the most recent refurbishment work carried out during the last two years by a previous owner. Among recent servicing, the automatic transmission fluid has been renewed, while the exhaust is in stainless steel. Chassis and engine numbers as well as the 146 FJJ registration are all confirmed by a V5C, while current Historic Vehicle Tax Disc and 17 May 2007 dated MOT Test Certificate at 87,038 miles will both be valid until 2008. The 89,173 mileage displayed when catalogued is most probably the genuine total from new for a well presented example of a relatively early MkII, which, with auto-shift, is best equipped to provide a stress-free and labour-saving driving experience in modern traffic.