1965 JAGUAR MKII 3.8 - MANUAL

This 1965 Jaguar MkII is an eye-catching example of the classic luxury saloon, which has been customised with a number of exterior and interior upgrades. It is powered by the venerable 3.8-litre XK straight-six engine, which drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. Its engine dates to the correct year, so it is probably the original motor. The odometer displays 96,250km.

Registered in 1965 and originally a right-hand drive example, the car was later converted to left-hand drive and modified for use in road rallies, with the addition of an alloy fuel tank, extra spotlights, and with seats and trim taken from a later Jaguar XJ40 for increased comfort. Having been enjoyed by its most recent private owner for four years, the car is now offered for sale on behalf of its private owner.

Overall, the bodywork of this handsome British classic is in good order, with no significant dents or panel damage. Louvres have been added to the bonnet, to provide additional cooling while also giving this elder statesman a slightly sportier look, while Cibie spot lamps on the front bumper help to illuminate the road ahead during night drives.

Further setting this MkII apart from standard classics, its two-tone silver and dark green metallic paintwork has been applied to a good standard, and has a smooth appearance across the entire body. It is also enhanced with Jaguar ‘leaper’ graphics on the front wings. While there is some bubbling beneath the rear bumper, the car’s underbody presents well, as evidenced by the photos displayed in the gallery below.

This Jaguar rides on a set of 15-inch wire wheels with two-eared Jaguar knock-off hub nuts, which are in good order and show few signs of wear beyond some minor surface corrosion. The car is equipped with a stainless steel exhaust system.

In the cabin, this Jaguar MkII arguably offers greater comfort than it did in 1965, with the original seats having been replaced by items taken from a later Jaguar XJ40 – including electric adjustment for the driver and front-seat passenger.

New black carpeting has also been added and the door cards appear to have been re-trimmed; however, a correct MkII wooden dashboard is still fitted, which presents extremely well and adds a real sense of occasion to the car. Given this Jaguar’s use and the age of some of its interior elements, there are some general wear marks to the interior, including creasing on the front and rear seats, but no damage or heavy discolouration.

Its last routine maintenance was a minor oil service, which was carried out by the previous owner in 2020. Prior to this, refurbishment work was carried out in 2017 and 2018, when the front shock absorbers, front and rear springs, heater valve and brake pads were replaced, while the alternator and steering box were both reconditioned.

An alloy fuel tank has been mounted in the boot, providing additional safety both while on the road and during motorsport events. All four wheels are fitted with Petlas Explero Winter W671 tyres, with around 6mm of tread remaining on the fronts and 3.5mm at the rear.

The car will be supplied with a workshop manual, invoices for parts replaced, and some photos of work to the body. The seller has requested a heritage certificate, which will also be provided on handover – or sent on to the new owner if delayed in the post.

This Jaguar MkII 3.8 is a uniquely prepared manual example of the classic British saloon, which stands apart from the crowd while still offering its trademark grace, space and pace. Fitted with an alloy fuel tank, rally-style spotlights and XJ40 seats, it will no doubt be a great companion for road rallies or fun weekend jaunts alike.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

As this vehicle is not UK-registered, it cannot be run through Collecting Cars’ standard online HPI check process.