In 1955, Jaguar introduced their new 2.4 Litre saloon, soon followed by the 3.4 Litre in early 1957. These cars were the first Jaguars with unitary body and chassis construction, employing the already famous XK twin-cam six-cylinder engine. As such, they introduced a more modern style and new level of performance to the company’s products. In 1959, Jaguar introduced a modified and improved model, the Mark 2 – available with 2.4, 3.4, and 3.8 litre versions of the XK engine – after which the earlier vehicles were (unofficially) referred to as Mark 1 Jaguars.  

Whilst the new Mark 2 looked very similar to the outgoing 2.4 and 3.4 models, it was revised substantially above the waistline, providing a much larger glass area and better visibility. There were a number of internal and external changes – mostly cosmetic - new interior instrument layout; new heating system; larger and re-positioned lamps and more chrome fixtures. Mechanically, the rear track was widened and the front suspension geometry was altered to improve handling. Disc brakes became standard on all 4 wheels and options such as power steering, overdrive or automatic transmission became available.

The 3.8 litre-engined car in particular, emphasised the performance credentials of the Mark 2, earning the accolade of being the fastest production saloon car in the world at the time. It could just top 120 mph and cover 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds. The last Mark 2 models were built in 1967, with over 83,000 cars (of all engine sizes) produced.

This car was manufactured in 1963 as a home market 2.4 litre model. We know nothing of its early life, other than that by 1990, when it was purchased by a Jersey-based owner, the original engine had been replaced with a 3.8 litre unit, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The new owner embarked upon a professional “total restoration” (a spend of nearly £39K) carried out by Autech Classic Cars Ltd, Worcestershire. The car has since remained in the Channel Islands, receiving appropriate maintenance and additional works as required.