1966 JAGUAR 3.8 S-TYPE SEDAN
1966 JAGUAR 3.8 S-TYPE SEDAN

Details
1966 JAGUAR 3.8 S-TYPE SEDAN
Chassis No. 1B 79716DN
Engine No. 7B 62784-8
Silver with red leather upholstery
Engine: six cylinder, twin overhead camshafts, 3,781cc, 220bhp at 5,500rpm; Gearbox: four speed manual with overdrive; Suspension: independent all round; Brakes: four wheel disc. Left hand drive.
In 1956 Jaguar launched a medium sized saloon which was the starting point in the development of the more recent Jaguar models. Initially with the 2.4-litre engine, the car became most successful and before long was on offer in 3.4 and 3.8-litre versions. The first Mark IIs appeared in late 1959 and were much improved versions of the 240 and 340 saloons. Mechanical alterations included a wider rear track and changes to the front suspension which greatly improved the handling. Styling changes included front spotlights instead of small grilles, a new radiator grille with a central rib and the side lights moved to the top of the front wings. More slender roof pillars and chrome window surrounds also improved the overall looks of the Mark II.

The S-type was a logical development of the Mark II, indeed its body shell was a clear derivative. It was given a redesigned grille, hooded headlamps, thinner bumpers and fully integrated turn signals which made the front look much smoother and more attractive. The rear was given a larger trunk which,along with the addition of a gas tank located in each fender,gave far more luggage space. The major mechanical improvement as adopted on the larger Mark X saloons was the introduction of independent rear suspension which gave the car a magnificent ride and excellent road manners for the period.
This superb example warrants close attention as it has undergone an extensive and very costly restoration over a number of years. The current owner purchased the car in California from its original owner in 1968. His wife then drove the car on a regular basis until around 1975 when they moved to the UK. It was decided that the car should be fully restored to its former glory and Mr. Fred Buess of Buess Restorations, San Jacinto, CA was commissioned to carry out the work. Since the owners were in no hurry to get the car back, there followed a period of 22 years when the car was not driven. Slowly the car underwent a complete restoration including a $6,000 repaint, new exhaust system, totally rebuilt engine, new clutch, brakes, rear-end, transmission, new varnish, all new chrome, new carpets and renewed leather upholstery. Only genuine Jaguar parts were used during the rebuild. The only departures from original specifications were the installation of a Jaguar air conditioning system controlled by a cleverly hidden switch in the glove compartment. To accommodate the A/C unit, the battery was relocated to the trunk, an alternator was added and the radiator was enlarged. The wing mirrors were replaced by side door mirrors which were cast specially using molds of the originals.
In total over $50,000 has been spent on the restoration and a large file of invoices and some photographs accompany this special Jaguar. Since the work was completed, only around 200 miles have been undertaken. It is interesting to note that Jaguar have just re-launched the S-type with a brand new model and many styling cues are taken from the original. This is an opportunity to buy the original article which has been restored to almost as good as new.
WITHOUT RESERVE