Some of you are thinking “that’s a Mark 2, not a 240, what’s he talking about?” Actually, it is a Jaguar 240, the last offshoot of the Mark 2 line, produced from 1967 to 1969. This example has been in this garage in Chester, New Jersey for 25 years, and is being offered here on eBay with a buy-it-now of $5,500 or best offer accepted.
The Mark 2 evolved from the successful Mark 1 in 1959 to become the definitive Jaguar saloon of the early 1960’s. It was available in several displacements over its lifetime, with the 2.4 liter version of the famous “XK” dual overhead cam inline six being the smallest, mainly for UK road tax reasons. While this particular example has been motionless for a quarter-century, the seller assures us it received regular “sponge baths” during that time period.
The engine, like most of the rest of the car, looks remarkably original. In 1967, the 240 was treated to an engine upgrade with larger SU H6 carburetors and a new intake manifold. The changes raised the output of the smooth-running engine to 133 horsepower. In this car’s case, a four-speed manual with Laycock electric overdrive is attached behind. The ad even states that the engine is free, although it doesn’t sound like there was an attempt to start it. I think the air cleaner intake is pretty cool looking; I’ve seen a lot of period Jaguars without them. The 240 didn’t get power steering, so one weak system on period Jaguars isn’t there to cause problems.
Yes, this is a right-hand-drive car imported in 1981 when it had just over 40,000 miles showing; there are now 53,262 on the odometer. The upholstery looks remarkably intact in both the front and rear seats; this is interesting as the 1967 240 and 340 were the first Mk 2 models to get Ambla (vinyl) seats versus the usual leather. There were a few other cost-cutting measures, such as less expensive carpet and a lack of standard fog lamps. Sales did increase slightly, with 4,446 240’s eventually finding homes by the time the model was discontinued in 1969; by then the new XJ6 had everyone’s attention!
So what’s not to like about this kitty? The seller explains that there are some minor rust issues. There’s rust in a few spots in the floor and the boot (trunk) floor, and obviously the bottom of the doors are going to require some attention. Overall, though, this is a relatively inexpensive entry into classic Jaguar ownership. I’m certainly tempted—are you?
Nice Jag – still got the UK number plates on it !
” I’m certainly tempted—are you? ” Not In my wildest dreams. It`s full of rust everywhere.
I love the style of this car. So much classier than the e types
This one might be a better choice if you don’t mind it being a Daimler with the 2.5 V8…
http://www.ebay.com/itm/121621219383
Did some repairs on one of these a few years back, they are really great riding cars and draw a crowd wherever parked. Love the classic Mark II and all the derivatives.
Hello. We used a Jaguar 240 as our everyday car in the early 1990s. Just loved it and despite being fitted with the smaller engine, it was a 100mph motor car. Two of the real bonus points with the 240 and 340 is that it was equipped with the straight port cylinder head as fitted to the E-type and the four-speed manual was the Jaguar all-synchro box and not the Moss gearbox plus the Laycock de Normanville overdrive was a delight. Would be happy to have another one in my garage.
Best wishes
Patrick Quinn
Blue Mountains, Australia