1966 Jaguar MK II 3.8 Litre

Lot details
Registration No: MPD 4D
Chassis No: 234917DN
Mot Expiry: Feb 2011

Synonymous with the swinging '60s, the MKII has, at least until very recently, been Jaguar's most widely admired saloon. Featuring notably slimmer roof pillars than its MKI forebear, the newcomer was as airy on the inside as it was elegant on the outside. Comprising a monocoque bodyshell equipped with independent coil-sprung front suspension, a well located live rear axle and disc brakes all round, it could be specified with a 2.4, 3.4 or 3.8-litre version of Jaguar's race-proved XK engine.

A sporting drive, the model enjoyed considerable success on the track, vanquishing everything from Mini Coopers to Ford Galaxies. Boasting some 220bhp and 240lb ft of torque, the 3.8-litre variants were capable of some 126mph and vivid acceleration (especially when fitted with the desirable four speed manual gearbox plus overdrive).

However, for some owners, even the spirited performance of the 3.8 was insufficient and, while various tuners sprang up to cater for the demand, the Guildford-based Coombs concern is the name most associated with the quick cats of the period. Coombs Jaguars were honed on the racetrack in the hands of such top drivers as Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori. To own a Coombs modified road car was to have something very special indeed.

The splendid Signal red Jaguar offered is reportedly one of 19 MKII 3.8 saloons modified by John Coombs' eponymous company and possibly the last to be converted for fast road/competition use. The original modifications included an uprated engine, close ratio gearbox with overdrive, modified suspension and steering, the removal of the rear wheel spats and a straight through twin-pipe exhaust. The full length Webasto sunroof and sun visor were fitted from new, while the power assisted steering was added at a later date.

The car is understood to be one of a pair that were supplied new to JE Baty & Co of London and road registered as 'MPD 3D' and 'MPD 4D'. Passing to a Mr Wilson of Yorkshire circa 1966, 'MPD 4D' was retained by his wife until 1989 when it was purchased by Robin Colvill of the Grumbleweed comic band as a restoration project. The body was then repainted and a mechanical rejuvenation carried out. It was during this period that the bonnet acquired its Coombs-style louvres (including water traps), the chrome was replaced and the sunroof refurbished.

The interior also received sympathetic attention and the very rare Zebrano woodwork was restored (the vendor believes 'MPD 4D' to be one of only ten cars fitted with this Central African wood imported from the Cameroon). The standard seats were replaced with four specially-adapted Jaguar XJ12 VDP bucket chairs trimmed in black hide with red piping. Contrasting carpets were also installed.

In 1998, the engine was treated to an overhaul to a higher fast road/rally specification by renowned Jaguar specialist Don Law. The work included gas flowing the cylinder head, the fitting of stainless inlet and tuftrided exhaust valves, upgraded valve springs and the machining of the inlet ports to match those of the carburettors. Later the same year, the block and bottom end of the unit were attended to, an AP Racing triple plate clutch fitted and the suspension renewed. The total cost of this work was a cool £11,000 - since when the car has apparently covered a mere 4,000 miles.

A set of brand new 6J 72-spoke competition wire wheels and spinners are a recent fitment; as is central door locking and an alarm. The Jaguar also now benefits from a Panasonic four-speaker remote control sound system.

Good, high-spec MKII 3.8s have long been highly sought-after. A genuine Coombs version in this condition is a rare find indeed, and represents a unique opportunity for the discerning classic Jaguar enthusiast.

PLEASE NOTE: The MOT for this vehicle expires February 2011.