Vehicle Description
In 1959, Jaguar updated the 2.4/3.4 range of mid-sized sports
saloons and renamed it "Mark II." The distinct styling got a slight
facelift, which resulted in a larger greenhouse, and more delicate,
chrome-trimmed window frames that gave it a lighter, airier
appearance. Most important to Jaguar's enthusiastic customer base
was the addition of the XK150's 3.4-litre inline-six. In order to
suit the luxury-sports saloon character of the MkII, the engine was
slightly detuned, with twin-carburetors and the standard cylinder
head. While not quite as potent as an XK150 S, there was little
doubting the engine's effectiveness at propelling the svelte
mid-sized saloon along with vigor. While many US-spec cars came
with the proven and reliable Borg-Warner 3-speed automatic
transmission, driving enthusiasts preferred the four-speed Moss
manual gearbox with optional overdrive. Particularly when fitted
with a manual gearbox and overdrive, the Mk II has a split
personality, offering snappy acceleration and handling that could
show a sports car a clean set of heels but with superb ride quality
and luxurious space for four passengers. While it might seem
commonplace today, the notion of a high-performance luxury saloon
was quite sensational when the Jaguar Mk II was new. This 1961
Jaguar Mk II is a beautifully restored and desirable example
equipped from new with the 210 hp 3.4-litre engine, four-speed
manual gearbox, and Laycock de Normanville overdrive. Per the
accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, this car
was first delivered to Mr. Clay Bisley, who lived in Frankfurt,
Germany at the time. Documents confirm this is a genuine
manual/overdrive model, originally finished in cream over red
leather. In the 1990s, it was owned by a passionate Mk II devotee,
who had previously restored a similar car for rallying, and now
wanted a factory-correct one for JCNA shows and other concours
events. The owner performed a painstaking ground-up restoration,
carefully researching the details and utilizing rare NOS parts
wherever possible. To top it off, he selected a striking,
period-correct shade of Opalescent Dark Blue, paired with cream
Connolly leather piped in dark blue. The majority of the mechanical
work was done by the highly qualified owner, except for the
paintwork and chrome restoration, which he subcontracted to
experienced specialists. The result of all that effort is a
stunning Mk II with superb finish quality and detailing. While some
time has passed since the restoration was completed, it remains
excellent, with beautiful paint, consistent panel alignment, and
gorgeous brightwork. The chrome knock-off wire wheels and bias-ply
black wall tires balance the elegant form with sporty aggression.
The cream-colored interior trim is equally beautiful, with lovely,
properly restored seats and panels. The Connolly leather is
excellent, with just a few light creases in the seats to create an
inviting ambiance. Wilton wool carpets are in fine fettle, as are
the leather-trimmed door cards. The beautiful wood dash and window
trims are restored, with a glossy finish on the dash top and door
caps, while the instrument fascia displays a satin sheen. Smiths
and Lucas instruments keep tabs on the goings-on under the bonnet,
and the classic toggle switches on the dash recall the iconic
E-Type. There is a proper vinyl lining in the boot, which houses a
full-size spare wheel, factory tool kit, and original jack. Under
the bonnet sits a numbers-matching XK 3.4-l twin-cam engine. This
powerful and versatile unit is rated for 210 horsepower in this
configuration, providing plenty of giddy-up for the relatively
lightweight saloon. Engine bay detailing is up to the same
standards as the exterior, and authentic finishes and hardware are
seen throughout. The head is painted the correct shade of light
green and topped with a proper Coopers air cleaner. Some signs of
use are apparent, most notably on the porcelain exhaust manifolds,
but it is overall extremely tidy and well kept. The same goes for
the undercarriage, which is clean, well-detailed, and displays just
a hint of road-use. Since its restoration, the Mk II has been
driven sparingly and remains in truly exceptional condition. It is
quite rare to encounter a Mk II as well-restored as this fine
example, as they are costly and labor-intensive to restore
correctly. This gorgeous, thoroughly enjoyable Jaguar stands above
most others and is ideally suited for rallies and tours, yet
beautiful enough to turn heads at your local Cars & Coffee or
compete for honors in JCNA shows and concours events. Offers
welcome and trades considered For additional details please view
this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6789-1961-jaguar-mark-ii-sedan/