Description
Although the Mk I was a great success, selling four times as many as the larger Jaguar saloons, Jaguar boss William Lyons was not content. He knew it could be improved.
Happily, virtually every aspect that had been criticised received attention in the new MkII range introduced in October 1959. These cars were to rank among the best loved Jaguars ever made and are today regarded as classics. There were some detail changes, including a redesigned interior that was more modern but retained the traditional Jaguar image.
Jaguar saloons led the field in production and touring car races during much of the 1960’s. Not surprisingly the quickest and most successful private entries came from John Coombs’ Jaguar dealership in Guilford. John Coombs had significant race experience and his dealership simply got it right for a fortunate few racing enthusiasts. Very early on that included Hill, Salvadori and Salmon.
Exported to Cape Town in May 1961, this wonderful Mark II saw service by the Argentinian Embassy before being re-imported to the UK in 1998. In 2001 this car was taken to marque specialists where it was treated to sensible and sensitive upgrades including power steering, uprated braking system and a 5-speed gearbox conversion. More recent work includes a high-torque starter motor, aluminium radiator, kelowe fan and a new water pump. Supplied with a large history file, current MOT and V5C, we believe this to be an excellent example worthy of a closer inspection.
