1969 Jaguar 240 Saloon                          Registrati...

Hammer

£7,000

1969 Jaguar 240 Saloon                         

Registration Number: VVB 769G
Chassis Number: 1J4050BW
Recorded Mileage: TBA

- Subject of sympatheic restoration in current ownership

Although the Mk I was a great success, selling four times as many as the larger Jaguar saloons, Jaguar boss William Lyons was not content. He knew it could be improved. Happily, virtually every aspect that had been criticised received attention in the new MkII range of October 1959. Similar in appearance but with a much larger glass area, the Mark II boasted a wider rear track to improve road holding, together with minor front suspension changes to reduce body roll and all round discs rather than drum brakes. Engine options included the 120bhp 2.4 litre, the 210bhp 3.4 litre and, for the first time the 220bhp 3,781cc unit of the Mk IX.

Jaguar saloons led the field in production and touring car racing during much of the 1960s. Not surprisingly the quickest and most successful private entries came from John Coombs’ Jaguar dealership in Guildford. John Coombs had significant race experience and his dealership simply got it right for a fortunate few racing enthusiasts. Very early on that included Hill, Salvadori and Salmon. Production of the 3.8ltr engined cars ceased in 1967 but production of the 240 and 340 continued using the same platform and instantly recognisable body shape.

Offered today is an exceptionally well presented example of the 240, having been the subject of an 8-year rolling sympathetic restoration. An Automatic model, the 240 is currently fitted with ‘sports’ spats to the rear (a pair of more conventional spats are included in the sale).

Finished in a beautiful shade of Aston Martin Silver Birch, with blue leather trim and nicely preserved interior fittings and veneers, the vendor informs us the 240 drives very well, representing an economical and practical entry into classic Jaguar ownership.