1966 Jaguar MkII 3.4 Manual Saloon

Few sports saloons are as revered as the Jaguar Mark II, the combination of style and performance unmatched by any other four-door car of the period. Introduced late in 1959, the Mark II was more than just a simple restyling of the existing compact range - the greater glass area being a welcome modification nonetheless - with significant changes under the skin.

The front suspension was improved and the rear axle increased by 3.75-inches in track to give much better handling characteristics. The classic XK engines were carried over, although the 2.4 received a new cylinder head and the 3.4 a new twin exhaust system. Also new was the option of the 3.8-litre engine lifted from the Mark IX. Apart from the bigger windows on all sides, other external changes included partially recessed fog lamps, a modified grille and new tail light assemblies.

Inside, the Mark II was redesigned with a new and comprehensively equipped dashboard facia finished in rich timber veneer, an adjustable steering column, centre console and new front seats with deeper squabs and folding picnic tables recessed in their backs. The Mark II found favour with the criminal element and the law alike, not to mention numerous racing drivers and motoring personalities and today demand for the model continues unabated.