Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2025 on Saturday the 8th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. Regarded by many as the definitive Jaguar sports saloon, the Mk2, was introduced in October 1959. A peerless blend of elegance and muscularity, its sleek lines clothed an evolution of the Coventry marque's first monocoque design. Powered by derivatives of the same XK DOHC straight-six engine that had swept Jaguar to five Le Mans victories, the Mk2 was quick to dominate contemporary saloon car racing. Equipped with coil and wishbone independent front suspension, a leaf-sprung Salisbury rear axle and servo-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, the range-topping 3. 8 boasted nearly seven times the bhp of a Mini 850 and a 126mph top speed! Blessed with one of the all time great automotive interiors, its stylish instrumentation, rich wood veneers and sumptuous leather upholstery all conspired to cosset and cocoon its lucky occupants.
However, despite its undoubted cachet and elegant lines, the Mk2's design is over 60 years old and certain mechanical aspects are a little 'agricultural'. For years now there have been owners who, whilst enjoying their classic Jaguar saloons, have decided to upgrade their cars and companies like Beacham and Vicarage have assisted owners restore, update and even re-imagine their cars.
Offered here is a Jaguar Mk2 and, according to documents within the history file, it was reimagined by the renowned Vicarage Classic Car Company, one of the leading names in upgraded and modernised Mk2 Jaguars. This particular Vicarage was originally commissioned by Mr Sue of Hong Kong in 1988/ 1989, with the full conversion costing £43, 557, approximately £140, 000 in today’s money.
Vicarage’s detailed schedule of works lists a host of enhancements over the standard specification for the 3. 8-litre Mk2. These include an oil cooler, Kenlowe electric cooling ***, XJ-S type power-assisted rack and pinion steering, improved suspension, electric sunroof, air-conditioning, electric windows, central locking, Daimler Vanden Plas front seats, and a fully trimmed luggage compartment. Mr Sue also specified a top of the range Nakamichi sound system.
In 2008, the car was upgraded further with the installation of a 5-speed Getrag manual gearbox by marque specialists Classic Motor Cars Ltd of Bridgnorth, Shropshire and today, this Mk2 ‘Vicarage’ still presents well, having been part of a private collection of landmark classics, professionally stored since our vendor secured it several years ago.
A thoughtfully upgraded and tastefully specified Mk2 Jaguar by one of the most respected names in the field, combining classic British design with refined comfort and performance enhancements, this exciting Vicarage-converted example offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the timeless charm of the Mk2 with the usability of a modern grand tourer.
