Description
234 FYD was first registered on the 3rd of December 1959, supplied by Western Motors of Bristol. Having left the factory in late 1959 the Jaguar has many of the desirable features only found on early MKII’s such as the 100PSI oil pressure gauge, shallow dash top, and indicator switch on the right-hand side. This subtly uprated example has been subject of some very expensive modifications transforming the car. Upgrades include a five speed gearbox, more comfortable seats, improved brakes and suspension providing increased efficiency and improved agility for the saloon. When the car was restored, the original engine was retained but enhanced to 3. 8L specification keeping its matching numbers status while significantly improving performance. Accompanying the car is a wealth of invoices and MOT test certificates dating back to 1989 and a copy of the buff logbook.
In 1988, the MKII featured in the February 1988 issue of Thoroughbred & Classic Cars Newspaper. A Mr Roger Davison saw the advert for £6, 500 and subsequently purchased the car in Cardiff from a classic car dealership. Just two years into his ownership, a full restoration was commissioned. 234 FYD was taken back to bare metal and repainted in its original colour of Cornish Grey. The original engine was completely rebuilt in 2007 by Watjag Ltd who carried out extensive preparation and the conversion to 3. 8L specification. In 2009, the Jaguar was taken over to France where the long-term owner enjoyed using the car on the Continent for 3 years being maintained by Jaguar specialists of France, Sebastien Legret. The MKII was thoroughly enjoyed during a thirty year ownership period.
Many desirable modifications have been carried out on the MKII ensuring it provides an enhanced, improved and enjoyable driving experience. The 5-speed transmission improves usability, the RS Coachworks XJS based power steering conversion kit hugely improves the car and the agility has been enhanced by a Harvey-Bailey suspension kit. With the increased performance of the 3. 8L engine, the brakes have been equipped with four-pot Zeus brake calipers for increased stopping power. Reliability has also been improved with the fitting of an alternator charging system.
This is a Jaguar that has been owned and cared for by a meticulous owner and true Jaguar enthusiast for three decades. He clearly enjoyed European motoring and highly improved the car with a top quality restoration. Testament to the car's graceful appearance, when attending the 2001 Jaguar Drivers' Club Concours D'Elegance, it earned 2nd place. 234 FYD also appears on the front cover of Nigel Thorley's book ‘Jaguar MKI and MKII, The Complete Companion'. With its beautiful appearance and suitable upgrades it is the perfect classic saloon for long distance touring and regular use. It also has wonderful provenance, history, paperwork and of course, it drives superbly and as the appearance of a wonderfully restored car.
