1965 Jaguar Mark 2 3.8 MOD

Highlights

• Extensive history file with documentation dating back to the 1980s
• Range-topping 3.8-litre engine with desirable manual transmission and overdrive
• Power steering fitted
• Interior retrimmed in Connolly hide leather
• Bodywork restoration carried out by RS Coachworks

The Appeal

Beloved of bank robbers for its keen turn of speed and ample interior, the Jaguar Mark 2 earned a fearsome reputation in its day. The 3.8-litre Mark 2 sits at the very top of the range: the most powerful and most sought-after variant of what many regard as the definitive sporting saloon of the 1960s.

Our car has benefited from attentive custodianship throughout its life, including a long period of single ownership from the 1980s through to the late 2000s. Its next custodian was London's Classic Car Club, who selected it for their fleet. Originally delivered as a 3.4, it was upgraded to full 3.8 specification and correctly re-registered; invoices from the late 1980s onwards already refer to it as a 3.8.
Bodywork restoration was entrusted to RS Coachworks, encompassing new front wings, re-skinned doors, a lead-loaded and butt-welded bootlid, and welded repairs to the rear suspension area. Inside, the cabin has been fully retrimmed in Connolly hide, and a recent clutch has been fitted.
Finished in British Racing Green on wire wheels with Blockley tyres, it presents well throughout and is accompanied by a substantial file documenting decades of careful maintenance. The vendor notes that some work will be required, outlined below, but this is a great starting point in a wonderful spec.

Key Information

• Mileage: 43,317 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT/road tax exempt
• Technical specs: 3.8-litre six-cylinder petrol, manual transmission, power steering, four-wheel disc brakes
• Paperwork: extensive history file including bill of sale, maintenance records dating to the 1980s, restoration invoices, and old MOT certificates

The Detail

• Originally a 3.4, upgraded to 3.8 specification and correctly re-registered as such
• Formerly blue according to DVLA data
• Has reportedly been used as an “everyday car” since the previous owner's purchase in 2021 and presents accordingly
• Bodywork restoration by RS Coachworks including new front wings, re-skinned doors, and a lead-loaded and butt-welded boot lid
• Welded repairs to the rear suspension area with renewed bushes
• Interior retrimmed in Connolly hide leather, including seats, door cards and trim
• Replacement headlining fitted
• Mota-Lita steering wheel fitted
• Period push-button radio fitted
• Correct chrome trim and badging in place, including the 3.8 boot badge
• Wire wheels with knock-off spinners, shod with Blockley tyres

The vendor notes the following known imperfections:

• Steering has considerable play
• Oil leak
• Previous owner was in the process of changing some trim items (carpets, door sill rubbers, etc); some of these items still require fitting
• Rev counter and speedometer don’t work
• Some of the wood trim has lost its lustre
• Oil gauge is believed to be inaccurate
• Handbrake doesn’t appear to work
• Brightwork dull and pitted
• Driver's side rear door doesn’t open

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