Introduced in 1959 as the successor to the Mark 1, the Mark 2 combined the performance and handling characteristics of a sports car with the comfort, practicality, and sophistication of a four-door saloon. Few cars have done more to establish the idea of the true European sports sedan than the Jaguar Mark 2. Its elegant proportions, thin pillars, expansive glass, and distinctive Jaguar grille gave it an unmistakable presence, while four-wheel disc brakes, independent suspension, and the legendary XK inline-six provided the sporting credentials to match. The Mark 2's success on both the road and the racetrack helped cement its reputation as one of the definitive performance sedans of the 1960s, influencing the sports-sedan formula that remains popular today.
This 1962 Jaguar Mark 2 Sports Saloon is an especially appealing example, presented in its original factory-correct Black over Red leather interior. The exterior showcases an older, presentation-quality paint finish that embraces the character and patina of an enthusiast-owned automobile rather than attempting to appear as a freshly restored showpiece. The result is a handsome and honest presentation that suits the Mark 2 remarkably well. The contrasting Red interior adds considerable visual appeal and is complemented by a largely original cabin, except for new professionally installed floor carpeting and freshly upholstered front leather seating. Period details throughout the cabin include Smiths instrumentation with tachometer, an adjustable steering column, Motorola transistor radio, period seatbelts, a day/night rearview mirror, and the unusual and desirable flush-fitting rear seat tray tables.
Importantly, this Mark 2 retains its original, numbers-matching 3.8-liter DOHC XK inline-six engine and cylinder head, paired with its 4-speed manual transmission with overdrive and limited-slip rear axle. This combination is particularly desirable among Mark 2 enthusiasts, delivering the engaging driving experience for which these Jaguars became famous while adding the relaxed cruising capability of overdrive. Additional equipment includes rear fender skirts, Vredestein tires mounted with chrome wheel disc covers, and the aforementioned period appointments that help preserve its authentic character.
The accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate provides a wonderful piece of documentation, confirming that this Jaguar was ordered on August 28, 1961, and dispatched just three days later on September 1, 1961. Further documentation includes ownership and service records dating back to June 1996, providing a substantial paper trail covering nearly three decades of its later life. Also accompanying the car are records for the recent mechanical work performed by St. Louis Car Museum & Sales, documenting a thoughtful effort to ensure that this Jaguar is not simply attractive, but genuinely roadworthy.
Recent mechanical servicing has been extensive. The original cylinder head was removed and received a complete valve job, including ground valves and seats, installation of new valve seals, adjustment of valve lash, and resurfacing of the head. The fuel system was addressed with a cleaned and flushed fuel tank and fully rebuilt SU HD6 carburetors, while the engine received new NGK spark plugs, valve cover gaskets, engine oil, and filter. Steering and braking systems were likewise attended to, including installation of a new steering box, complete brake service with new pads and resurfaced rotors, cleaning and repacking of the front wheel bearings, and replacement of the lower ball joints and dust boots. Numerous smaller ancillary items, including a radiator cap and fuel lines, were also addressed as part of the recommissioning process.
The result is a particularly appealing Mark 2 that can be enjoyed as intended: a confident, engaging, and roadworthy sporting saloon with plenty of authentic character. Its older presentation finish and largely original interior give it a wonderful sense of patina, while its desirable 3.8-liter XK engine, 4-speed manual with overdrive, limited-slip differential, and rare Black-over-Red color combination make it a particularly compelling driver's example. With substantial documentation, a documented history reaching back to the mid-1990s, and meaningful recent mechanical attention, this 1962 Jaguar Mark 2 offers the opportunity to own one of the seminal European sports sedans in an honest, usable, and highly enjoyable form.
