Class:
Compact Executive Sports Sedan
Target Audience:
Luxury car buyers seeking performance and style
Key Competitors:
Rover P5, Rover P6, Daimler 2.5 V8, Ford Zodiac
Design Highlights:
Elegant styling by William Lyons, spacious interior, excellent handling and ride quality
Performance Appeal:
Renowned for its powerful XK engines and sporty driving dynamics
Powertrain:
Engine (XK series), Transmission (Moss, BorgWarner), Clutch, Drive Axle
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Disc Brakes)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments, Accessories
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Heating and Ventilation
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, fluid changes, lubrication, inspections
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault finding procedures, symptom analysis
Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, brake adjustment, valve clearance
Installation And Removal:
Component removal and installation procedures for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, step-by-step procedures with detailed explanations and pictorial diagrams
Special Tools:
Reference to specific Jaguar service tool numbers and their application
Specifications:
Tightening torques, wear limits, fluid capacities, clearance specifications, electrical data
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (No formal crash test ratings available for this era)
Brakes:
Girling Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front & Rear), offering superior performance for its time
Steering:
Power-assisted Burman recirculating ball steering
Seat Belts:
Optional seat belts available, not standard fitment in early models
Body Construction:
Monocoque body-chassis construction for improved rigidity and safety
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of chassis grease points recommended (see manual)
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W50 (API SG or equivalent) recommended for XK engines
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent for older Borg-Warner DG)
Rust:
Susceptible to rust in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans due to age and original construction
Overheating:
Can be prone to overheating if cooling system is not properly maintained
Carburetor Tuning:
Requires regular adjustment of twin SU carburetors for optimal performance
Suspension Wear:
Kingpins, bushings, and shock absorbers can wear over time, affecting handling
Brand Foundation:
Jaguar Cars was founded in 1922, known for sports cars and luxury saloons
Predecessor:
Jaguar Mk 1 (XK120 derived chassis)
Mark 2 Development:
An evolution of the Mk1 with a longer wheelbase, larger windows, and improved styling
Later Variants:
Jaguar 240 and 340 (cost-reduced versions) introduced in the late 1960s
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
Total Production Approx:
~85,000 units (all variants)
Motorsport Heritage:
Successful in various motorsport events, including the 1963 Monte Carlo Rally (class win)
Critical Acclaim:
Widely praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and handling by contemporary automotive press
Historic Vehicle Status:
Eligible for historic vehicle registration and associated benefits in many regions