Description
The S-Type Jaguar: the thinking man’s Mk2. Everything the Mk2 has with more, better handling to boot. Not as pert as the Mk2, perhaps, but a superior car in all respects.
Launched in 1963, the S-Type was designed to plug the gap between the smooth riding and ultra-luxurious MkX and the rather antiquated live axle Mk2. Sharing the MkX’s independent rear suspension, the S-Type was a far more sophisticated car than the Mk2, the improved ride/ handling being complemented by power steering as standard and a more lavishly equipped interior.
The S-Type came with either a 3. 4 or 3. 8-litre XK engine, featuring a modified version of the Mk2 bodyshell with restyled front and rear ends. The front had its own distinctive grille, shrouded headlamps and a slim-line bumper while the rear looked very similar to the large MkX. The end result was a fine luxury sports saloon that outpaced the Mk2 it was based on. Production ceased in 1968 when the superlative XJ6 arrived by which time almost 25, 000 S-Types had been sold. This 3. 4 manual with overdrive was first registered in 1966 in California and was shipped to the Czech Republic to rest in a collection. I purchased her around 12yrs ago and drove her back to the UK. The engine was rebuilt approx. 15yrs ago, I have since fitted two new petrol tanks, new seals, and new stainless exhaust and serviced her every 12 months regardless of mileage. The oil pressure is around 55 PSI and the compression ratio is on the button. The leather is in good condition although the woodwork could do with some TLC. And the rear bumper would benefit from a re-chrome. She has a rare factory-fitted electric sunroof and is on wire wheels with a 5th gear being a factory-fitted overdrive.
Overall with a strong engine, smooth gearbox, and working overdrive, and good oil pressure. The car is a lovely solid example of an S-type with many invoices. I have recently rebuilt the carburetors and changed the filters and Crank Breather to K&N but, kept the originals. This car would look stunning in any garage and is ready to be used and enjoyed.
