2017-03-31 10:55:56 | pauls writes:

Car to be at auction 4/17
www.coys.co.uk/cars/1968-jaguar-mk-ii-3-8-coombs-evocation

Auction description:
Spring Classics
An Important Auction of Fine Historic Automobiles

ESTIMATE £22,000-£26,000
Auction Spring Classsics 2017
Lot Number 320
Reg. Number UK Registered
Chassis Number 1J/51342
Year 1968
Make Jaguar
Model MkII 3.8 Coombs Evocation

This wonderful Mark II was delivered new on 15th March 1968, originally offered with the 3.4 litre version of the classic straight six Jaguar twin-cam motor. With the current family for several years, the Mark II has enjoyed a huge restoration in the hands of its enthusiastic older owner, who during the process treated his beloved Mark II to a number of upgrades to create this Coombs-style Evocation presented here.

The body was stripped back to bare metal, localised repairs undertaken and then painted in Old English White. The motor was upgraded to 3.8 litres by engine builder Sigma Engineering of Gillingham, renowned for their quality of work with classic Jaguars. Now delivering a very healthy 280bhp, the Mark II is capable of over 130mph, with very strong acceleration through the overdrive all-synchro gearbox. To keep the engine cool a new aluminium radiator with Kenlowe fan has been fitted, a new stainless exhaust improves breathing, and a high torque starter motor gets the engine fired up more quickly. The gearbox and drivetrain were overhauled to improve power delivery, with a Limited Slip Differential to the rear. The steering was upgraded to ZF rack and pinion, and the suspension uprated courtesy of a Demon Tweaks upgrade kit. To improve running and reliability the ignition has been converted to an electronic system.

The interior benefitted from a complete retrim in Wine Red leather with bespoke bucket seat and new headlining. The woodwork also benefited from attention, being revarnished and refitted to the car. As finishing touches the all exterior trim was rechromed to a high standard by Silvabronz of Alton, and a new set of wire wheels fitted all round. As a nod to the Coombs style fast road cars of the 1960s, the Mark II was finished with a louvred bonnet and "Coombs-style" rear wheel arches. We have bills on file for c. £28,000 for the restoration work.

Properly sorted uprated Mark II Jaguars are wonderful classics for the enthusiastic driver, and this beautiful example must rank as one of the very best we have seen. The Mark II will be offered with a file of invoices supporting the restoration work, a UK V5 and fresh MoT certificate.