1960 Jaguar Mk.II 3.8

The Jaguar Mk.II was a medium size saloon built from 1959 to 1967 as a successor to the 2.4 and 3.4 models, manufactured between 1957 and 1959. The Mk.II was handsome, powerful and a good handling saloon which was offered with a choice of three six-cylinder twin cam engines, 2.4, 3.4 or 3.8 litre. The 3.8 unit used for the Mk.II was similar to the 3.8 E-type unit having the same block, crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons but different inlet manifold and carburetion, twin SU's instead of three on the European specification E-Type with 30bhp less as a result. The head of the six cylinder engine in the Mk.II had curved ports compared to the straight ports of the E-Type.

The Mk.II 3.8 litre is a quick car even by today's standards. The engine produced 220bhp and was capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and could reach a top speed of 125mph. Therefore, when the car was new, it was unquestionably one of, if not the fastest saloon car on the planet.

The Mk.II has enjoyed great success on track and can still be a very competitive historic race car. Campaigned by all the top drivers of the day including Graham Hill, Roy Salvadori and Michael Parkes, the Mk.II scored victories throughout saloon car races in the sixties and was also raced across Europe in the Tour De France and Monte Carlo rally. Furthermore, Mk.IIs gained an infamous reputation as a capable "getaway car' among the criminal underworld and the police also used them as motorway patrol cars. These capable and robust Jaguars had seating for five adults and in 3.8Litre specification could outrun almost any other car on the road.

The car on offer today is an early 1960 built car offered in the preferred colour scheme of Opalescent Gunmetal body with contrasting Red hide interior. The overall impression of the car which is shod on radial tyres with wire wheels, Jaguar spinners and flawless brightwork is very pleasing to the eye. From the comfortable cockpit, this original righthand drive and matching numbers car further benefits from a four speed manual transmission delivering a spritely and accurate drive further aided by enhanced braking care of the upgraded front and rear callipers.

"HSS 807' is the subject of a recent full body and mechanical restoration to original specification by its last owner of 25 years. The replacement of the original leather and carpets means this car retains a wonderful patina unrepeatable in many restored examples.

All factors measured, this is a truly fine and original example of an iconic 60's saloon and with low mileage is one with a long life ahead. Offering perhaps the best value in the marketplace, "HSS 807' with UK V5C registration certificate, represents the best opportunity you're likely to have to own the most desirable 3.8litre Mk.II before the rest of the market catches on! Don't miss your chance to be driving her away...