Jaguar Mark 2

The Jaguar Mark 2 is another classic that has gained much of my interests. It is not just because of its unique look, following its predecessor mark 1, but because I own a simple replica of it. And if you look at the picture below, that’s what mine looks like. 

While the replica looks the same its in a much more smaller scale in comparison. It is also greatly underpowered. The Original mark 2 boasts varying capacities from 2.4L upto 3.8L with unto 220bhp of output. The replica I owned however had a little, and I mean a very little, Nissan engine with a capacity of 1 L. 

This by all means were not nearly as good for hauling all the weight of the car. The interior was also of a Nissan march/ micra (alternately known as K11) in a grey tone. A complete mismatch for the luxury the Jaguar offered. Regardless, I love the look of it. 

The Jaguar mark 2 saw the production of 83,976 units between 1959-1967. The 2.4L and 3.4 L versions were apparently rebadged 240 and 340 in 1967. The 3.8L was discontinued and the 240 was discontinued with the introduction of the XJ6. However, the 240 continued until April 1969 as a budget version. at a price of £1364.

The 240 produced a 133 bhp (99kW; 135PS) at 5,500 RPM. It had a straight-port type cylinder along with a twin HS6 SU carburettors. The automatic transmission was also upgraded to a Borg-Warner 35 dual drive range.  The 240 could also exceed the 100mph mark.

The mark 2, in specific the 3.8L version, also had bit of a motorsport history.

• The 1962 Australian Touring Car Championship was won by Bob Jane
• The Motor Six Hours International Saloon Car Race 1962 was won by Micheal Parkes and Jimmy Blumer
• The 1963 European touring Car Challenge was won by Peter Nöcker
• The 1963  Australian Touring Car Championship was won again by Bob Jane driving a Mark 2 (4.2L engine).
• 1963 Brands Hatch 6 hour was won by Roy Salvador and Denny Hulme