Market Position:
Luxury Grand Tourer; positioned as a flagship model offering exceptional comfort, performance, and build quality.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other high-end luxury sedans of the era, such as Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, Bentley S-Series, and Mercedes-Benz W112 models.
Key Features:
Powerful XK straight-six engine, sophisticated suspension, luxurious interior appointments, available automatic transmission, spacious cabin.
Systems Covered:
Detailed schematics for the Lucas P100 headlamps and ancillary lighting systems.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step guide for gearbox removal and reinstallation, including clutch replacement. Detailed brake caliper overhaul instructions.
Technical Depth:
Includes torque specifications for critical engine and chassis fasteners, bearing clearances, and piston ring gap specifications.
Primary Engine:
Jaguar XK 3.8 Litre Straight-Six (XK3.8)
Engine Code:
XK 3.8 (various prefixes depending on specification and market)
Displacement:
3781 cc (230.7 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 102.5 mm (3.42 in x 4.04 in)
Compression Ratio:
7.5:1 or 8:1 (depending on market and specific tune)
Horsepower:
Approx. 220 bhp (164 kW) at 5500 rpm (Net)
Torque:
Approx. 240 lb-ft (325 Nm) at 2500 rpm (Net)
Fuel System:
Twin SU HD6 Carburettors or Stromberg CD carburetters
Ignition System:
Coil and Distributor with Lucas ignition components
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, pressurized, with thermostatic control and engine-driven fan.
Performance:
Top speed estimated around 115-120 mph (185-193 km/h). Acceleration 0-60 mph in approximately 10-12 seconds.
Standard Transmission:
3-speed Borg-Warner DG Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Moss Manual Gearbox with Overdrive (less common on Mk IX)
Transmission Features:
Torque converter (automatic), synchromesh on top three gears (manual).
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm type (for manual transmission models)
Exterior Length:
Approx. 196.5 inches (4991 mm)
Exterior Width:
Approx. 72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Exterior Height:
Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 120.0 inches (3048 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 56.0 inches (1422 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,850 - 4,000 lbs (1746 - 1814 kg)
Cargo Capacity:
N/A (Sedan styling, rear trunk space)
Wheel Type:
15-inch steel wheels with Jaguar hubcaps or wire wheels (optional).
Tire Size:
Typically 6.70 x 15 or 7.00 x 15 bias-ply tires, with radial tire upgrades such as 185 R15 or 205/70 R15 being common modern replacements.
Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies due to era of production.
Active Features:
Four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes with hydraulic assistance, power-assisted steering.
Passive Features:
Robust steel body construction, safety glass throughout, padded dashboard (later models).
Service Intervals:
Engine oil and filter: 3,000 miles or 6 months. Lubrication points: 1,000 miles. Valve clearance: 12,000 miles. Spark plug replacement: 12,000 miles (typical for era).
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 12-24 months due to hygroscopic nature.
Engine Oil Type:
API SE/SF rated multigrade oil, SAE 20W-50 recommended in temperate climates. (Modern equivalent for classic cars).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with water (50/50 mix recommended). Specific anti-corrosion additives beneficial.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. (Mineral oil was used in some original systems, but modern fluid is generally compatible and preferred for performance).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Borg-Warner Type 'A' or equivalent Dexron-III (for automatic transmission). Gear oil for manual gearbox (e.g., SAE 90 EP).
Rear Axle Fluid Type:
Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 90 EP.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 10 pints (4.7 litres) with filter change.
Cooling System Capacity:
Approx. 20 pints (9.5 litres).
Known Issues:
Rust prone in sills and wheel arches, potential for oil leaks from engine and gearbox seals, cooling system efficiency can degrade over time, electrical wiring insulation can become brittle, carburetor synchronization issues. Crankshaft bearing wear is also a possibility in high-mileage engines.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Various aftermarket equivalents available, e.g., Fram PH13, Wix 51515 (verify compatibility with XK engine configuration).
Air Filter Part Number:
Specific to SU HD6 or Stromberg CD carburetters, often a conical element.
Brand Heritage:
Jaguar Cars is renowned for its legacy of producing luxurious, high-performance sports cars and sedans, often blending elegant styling with racing-derived engineering.
Model Evolution:
The Mark IX was the final iteration of Jaguar's large saloon line that began with the Mark VII. It represented an evolution of the Mark VIII, featuring the more powerful 3.8L XK engine and a lengthened wheelbase for improved rear passenger space.
Production Years:
1958 - 1961
Manufacturing Locations:
Coventry, England
Production Numbers:
Approximately 5,694 units produced.