History Car 1960s

Jaguar Mk II

Overview

Launched in 1959, the Jaguar Mk II was a high-performance luxury saloon that quickly became a staple of 1960s rallying and touring car racing. Offered with 2.4 L, 3.4 L, and 3.8 L variants of Jaguar’s legendary XK DOHC inline-6 engine, it was one of the fastest four-door sedans of its time. Blending elegant styling with serious performance, the Mk II gained popularity with both factory-backed and privateer entries in international competition.

Technical Specs & Innovations

  • Engine: 2,483–3,781 cc DOHC inline-6
  • Power Output: 120–220 hp depending on configuration
  • Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
  • Weight: ~1,400–1,600 kg (3,086–3,527 lbs)
  • Layout: Unibody with independent front suspension and live rear axle

Innovations included standard four-wheel disc brakes (pioneering for the time), rack-and-pinion steering, and excellent visibility thanks to its thin pillars and generous glass area.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

  • 1961–63 British Saloon Car Championship Wins, Driven by legends like Roy Salvadori and Graham Hill, the Mk II 3.8 dominated early touring car races.
  • 1961 & 1962 RAC Rally Finishes, Demonstrated strong performance in the over-3.0 L class.
  • 1962 Tulip Rally and Monte Carlo Appearances, Privateer entries placed well in long-distance European events.

Its balance of luxury and speed made it a favored choice for rallying, endurance events, and circuit racing alike.

Driving Characteristics

The Jaguar Mk II helped define the fast saloon segment, influencing motorsport and automotive design throughout the decade. Its enduring popularity in historic racing circles and media appearances, especially as a getaway car in British crime dramas, cemented its place as an icon of both competition and culture.

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