About Jaguar Mark 2

The Jaguar Mk 2 was unveiled in 1959 at the “Earls Court Motor Show”, although the model is often associated with the following decade. After its debut, the previous model became known as the Jaguar Mk 1. The Mk 2 perfectly embodied William Lyons' famous 1950s slogan: “Grace… Space… Pace.”

At the 1960 New York Auto Show, a unique Golden Jaguar Mark 2 was presented to introduce the car to the American market. The vehicle featured a white exterior with a matching white leather interior, and all chrome elements were replaced with real gold-plated components. The car was showcased alongside a lady dressed in a gold-embroidered gown and wearing a tiara adorned with 1,000 diamonds, gifted by Napoleon to Empress Josephine in 1804.

Unfortunately, after the auto show, the car was returned to the factory and converted into a standard production model. However, enthusiasts recreated an exact replica of the Golden Jaguar, which was unveiled in 1999 at the Amelia Island Concours.

Jaguar Mark 2 Overview

Introduced in 1959 at the Earls Court Motor Show, the Jaguar Mark II redefined luxury sports saloons with its elegant design, advanced engineering, and powerful engines ranging from 2.4 to 3.8 liters. Highlighted by the unique Golden Jaguar Mark 2 at the 1960 New York Auto Show, it became a symbol of luxury and performance. Produced until 1967, it remains a timeless classic.

Jaguar Mark 2 Technical Specification

Engines:

2.4-Liter:

Power: 120 hp at 5750 rpm.

Bore: 83 mm, Stroke: 76.5 mm.

Twin Solex carburetors.

3.4-Liter:

Power: 210 hp at 5500 rpm.

Bore: 83 mm, Stroke: 106 mm.

Twin S.U. H.D.6 carburetors, dual exhaust system.

3.8-Liter:

Power: 220 hp at 5500 rpm.

Bore: 87 mm, Stroke: 106 mm.

Twin S.U. H.D.6 carburetors, dual exhaust system.

All engines featured aluminum cylinder heads, seven-bearing crankshafts, and balanced lightweight pistons. Compression ratios ranged from 8:1 to an optional 7:1 for export markets.

Transmission:

2.4-Liter:

4-speed manual or optional overdrive.

Gear ratios: Top: 4.27, 3rd: 5.48, 2nd: 7.94, 1st+Rev: 14.42.

3.4- and 3.8-Liter:

4-speed manual with or without overdrive, or Borg Warner automatic.

Gear ratios (manual): Top: 3.54, 3rd: 4.84, 2nd: 7.01, 1st+Rev: 12.73.

Suspension:

Front: Independent with torsion bars and wishbones.

Rear: Semi-elliptical leaf springs with telescopic dampers.

Brakes:

Four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes (standard).

Wheels and Tires:

Steel wheels with 6.70×15 Dunlop tires.

Optional wire wheels.

Interior:

Luxurious five-seat layout with high-quality leather and polished walnut trim.

Adjustable front seats and folding rear tables.

Ventilated windows, sun visors, and wool carpets with nylon rear mats.

Instruments include a tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and temperature indicator.

Fuel System:

12-gallon fuel tank with an electric S.U. fuel pump.

Dimensions:

Length: 15’ 0 3/4".

Wheelbase: 8’ 11 3/8".

Width: 5’ 6 3/4".

Height: 4’ 9 1/2".

Ground Clearance: 7".

Trunk:

Spacious 13 1/2 cubic-foot compartment with tool storage.

Jaguar Mark 2 Models

2.4-Liter Version

3.4-Liter Version

3.8-Liter Version

Jaguar Mark 2 Photogallery