Model:
Mark 1 / Mark 2 / 240 / 340 Saloon
Model Aliases:
MK1, MK2, Type 240, Type 340
Applicable Years:
1956-1969
Chassis Codes:
J72 (MK1), J94 (MK2), J73 (240/340)
Market Position:
High-end luxury and performance saloons of their era. Aimed at affluent buyers seeking comfort, style, and sporting capability. Direct competitors included Rover P5, Rover P6 (later), and contemporary Mercedes-Benz models.
Competitive Analysis:
Jaguar's offering was renowned for its performance, particularly with the XK engine variants, and its elegant styling. The MK1 was a more compact design, while the MK2 expanded on the formula with increased interior space and improved handling. The 240 and 340 were cost-reduced variants of the MK2, offering a more accessible entry into Jaguar ownership.
Key Features:
Independent front and rear suspension (IRS on MK2 and later models), powerful straight-six engines, disc brakes on all four wheels (standard on most models), luxurious interiors, distinctive styling.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Carburetor and Fuel System, Cooling System, Clutch, Gearbox, Propeller Shaft, Rear Axle, Steering, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brakes, Wheels and Tyres, Body and Exhaust System, Heating and Windscreen, Electrical Systems
Procedures Included:
General Information, Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Instructions, Component Removal and Installation, Electrical Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Component Specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to major component rebuilds and system overhauls. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts.
Engine Mk1 2.4:
Jaguar XK 2.4 litre (2,488 cc) Straight-6, Twin Overhead Camshafts (DOHC)
Engine Mk2 3.8:
Jaguar XK 3.8 litre (3,781 cc) Straight-6, DOHC
Engine Mk2 3.4:
Jaguar XK 3.4 litre (3,442 cc) Straight-6, DOHC
Engine 240:
Jaguar XK 2.4 litre (2,488 cc) Straight-6, DOHC
Engine 340:
Jaguar XK 3.4 litre (3,442 cc) Straight-6, DOHC
Horsepower 3.8:
Approx. 220-230 bhp (depending on tune)
Torque 3.8:
Approx. 240-245 lb-ft
Horsepower 3.4:
Approx. 210 bhp
Horsepower 2.4:
Approx. 164-180 bhp
Fuel System:
Typically twin SU Carburetors (e.g., HD6 for larger engines, H6 for 2.4L). Fuel pump is usually a mechanical Lucas unit. Fuel pressure typically around 3.5-4.5 psi.
Length Mk2:
Approx. 179.5 inches (4559 mm)
Width Mk2:
Approx. 66 inches (1676 mm)
Height Mk2:
Approx. 59 inches (1499 mm)
Length Mk1:
Approx. 173.5 inches (4407 mm)
Width Mk1:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Height Mk1:
Approx. 59 inches (1499 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,400 lbs (1360 - 1542 kg), varying by engine and equipment
Wheelbase:
MK1: 107 inches (2718 mm); MK2/240/340: 107 inches (2718 mm)
Track Front Mk2:
Approx. 54 inches (1372 mm)
Track Rear Mk2:
Approx. 53 inches (1346 mm)
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings available from modern organizations as the vehicles predate such testing standards. Designed with the safety standards of the late 1950s and 1960s.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes ( Dunlop or Girling systems), robust chassis construction.
Passive Features:
Steel unibody construction, basic interior padding, seat belts were often optional or fitted later.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months. Refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions.
Greasing Points:
Many chassis lubrication points (kingpins, suspension arms, steering joints) requiring regular greasing (e.g., every 1,000-2,000 miles). Requires a grease gun.
Engine Oil Type Mk2 3.8:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-50 typically recommended. For pre-synthetic eras, straight 30 or 20W-50 was common. Use of zinc additive (ZDDP) is highly recommended for flat-tappet engines.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant mixture (50/50) for corrosion protection.
Gearbox Oil Type:
For Moss gearbox: SAE 30 or 20W-50. For later synchromesh: GL-4 gear oil. Overdrive unit may require specific fluid (e.g., Dexron III for some later versions, consult manual). Check for shared sump with engine for some gearbox variants.
Rear Axle Oil Type:
EP (Extreme Pressure) 90W gear oil. Limited-slip differential fluid if applicable, though most were open diffs.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Glycol-based). Fluid should be changed every 1-2 years due to hygroscopic nature.
Known Issues General:
Corrosion (especially sills, wheel arches, rear spring mounts), cooling system (radiator leaks, water pump failure), electrical gremlins ( Lucas components), carburetor tuning, steering box wear, rear axle UJ wear.
Known Issues Engine:
Oil leaks (especially front and rear crankshaft seals), timing chain stretch, valve guide wear, potential for engine overheating if cooling system is neglected.
Known Issues Suspension:
Front suspension bushes and kingpins wear, leading to imprecise steering and wander. Rear IRS can be complex to maintain and rebuild.
Brand Heritage:
Jaguar Cars was founded by Sir William Lyons, with a reputation for producing stylish, powerful, and luxurious sports cars and saloons. Known for the iconic SS100, XK series (XK120, XK140, XK150), and the E-Type.
Model Evolution Mk1:
The Jaguar 2.4 Litre ('MK1') was introduced in 1955. It was Jaguar's first monocoque construction (unibody) car and the first compact executive saloon from the company. Initially powered by the 2.4L XK engine, a more powerful 3.4L version was introduced later.
Model Evolution Mk2:
Launched in 1959, the Jaguar Mark 2 ('MK2') was an evolution of the MK1. It featured a longer wheelbase, wider track, larger windows (hence 'The Big Saloon'), improved suspension (with optional power steering and revised IRS), and offered the more powerful 3.4L and 3.8L XK engines. The MK2 became a benchmark for performance saloons.
Model Evolution 240 340:
Introduced in 1967, the 240 and 340 were essentially updated versions of the MK2. The 240 used the 2.4L engine, while the 340 used the 3.4L engine. They featured minor styling updates and cost-saving measures, such as different interior trim and often wire wheels as standard. The 3.8L engine was discontinued for these models.
Production Period:
MK1: 1955-1959; MK2: 1959-1967; 240/340: 1967-1969
