1964 Jaguar Mk II '4.2 Improved' Saloon
Sold: $43,000
Specifications
Engine | In-line 6-cylinder, 4235cc (see text) |
---|---|
Gearbox | 5-speed manual (see text) |
Body Work | Saloon |
Colour | Clarendon Blue |
Interior | Cream |
Trim | Leather |
Wheels | Wire-spoked |
Brakes | Discs |
Description
Regarded as one of the finest sports saloons ever made, Jaguar's Mark II was launched in October 1959, addressing many of the shortcomings of its predecessor,
in particular criticism of the handling at higher speeds that was overcome by widening the rear track. With slimmer pillars and greater glass area, the Mark II had a lighter cabin featuring a redesigned instrument panel - still in the traditional rich timber veneer - with much improved layout. Disc brakes all round were now standard and in addition to the familiar 2.4 and 3.4-litre versions of the classic XK in-line six, there was now the option of a powerful new 3.8-litre version. For a time, the Mark II equipped with the 3.8-litre engine was the fastest four-door car available and achieved some success in touring car racing both in England and here in Australia. A sales success, with nearly 90,000 built over ten years of production and numerous derivatives like the Daimler V8 and later 420 Compacts, the Mark II is today revered by Jaguar enthusiasts as perhaps the finest saloon ever to wear the leaping cat. No model epitomizes the Jaguar slogan of ?Grace, Pace and Space? better than the Mark II and it remains an eminently useable classic saloon today, with excellent support provided by the many clubs and specialists around Australia.