Quarterly Newsletter Volume 79

1964 Jaguar Mark II

A Classic Showcase Restoration...Finished and Available!

About the  Mark II  and its restoration

After months of meticulous craftsmanship and countless hours in the workshop, our restoration of the 1964 Jaguar Mark 2 Sedan is officially finished. This project has been a rewarding endeavor from start to finish, and as we enter the final test-drive phase—carefully logging miles and fine-tuning every system—we’re proud to share the results of what has become one of our most refined restorations to date!

SUMMER 2025 UPDATE

This particular Mark 2, a numbers-matching 3.8-liter example, had all the qualities we look for in a world-class candidate: a highly original California car with limited ownership history and a remarkably solid foundation. It was clear from the start that this car deserved a top-level, detail-driven restoration—one that would respect its heritage while elevating its performance, comfort, and aesthetic to modern expectations without compromising authenticity. We began with a complete disassembly and a rotisserie-mounted, bare-metal preparation. Each panel was metal-finished, leaded, and adjusted with surgical precision to restore the car’s symmetry and flow. Every piece of chrome and trim was trial-fitted, refined, and corrected prior to paintwork, which involved several stages of priming, sealing, and final finishing in a rich Metallic Silver—an elegant tone that amplifies the car’s already timeless profile.

We began with a complete disassembly and a rotisserie-mounted, bare-metal preparation. Each panel was metal-finished, leaded, and adjusted with surgical precision to restore the car’s symmetry and flow. Every piece of chrome and trim was trial-fitted, refined, and corrected prior to paintwork, which involved several stages of priming, sealing, and final finishing in a rich Metallic Silver—an elegant tone that amplifies the car’s already timeless profile.  

INTERIOR

Inside, the transformation is every bit as striking. A new Dark Blue leather interior was crafted by our Master Trimmer using factory-spec materials and methods. Special attention was given to the wood dash and trim, which underwent one of the most exhaustive restoration efforts of the entire build. Each piece of veneer was carefully stripped, stabilized, re-laminated, and then finished in a deep, polished lacquer that enhances both the grain and the cabin’s visual warmth. This painstaking process brought out a richness and clarity that honors the original craftsmanship while adding a level of refinement that’s rarely seen—even in top-tier restorations.

MECHANICAL

Under the bonnet, the original 3.8-liter engine was fully rebuilt and tested on our in-house engine station before installation. To improve drivability, we paired it with a modern 5-speed gearbox. Every supporting system—fuel, cooling, electrical, clutch, and hydraulics—was rebuilt or replaced to meet modern reliability standards, with upgraded components carefully integrated to remain true to the car’s period styling.

Enhancements include a stainless-steel exhaust, air conditioning, an alloy radiator with an auxiliary fan, and a gear reduction starter. Sound-deadening insulation was added for a quieter, more composed ride, while the original radio fascia now houses a period-correct Retrosound stereo with Bluetooth. The car rolls on fresh Vredestein tires mounted to restored chrome wire wheels, completing the balance between classic looks and modern functionality.

As road testing continues, it’s clear this Jaguar delivers on every level—cosmetically, mechanically, and emotionally. This is a car restored not just to show, but to enjoy with confidence. For collectors seeking a concours-level Mark 2 that represents the very best of old-world elegance and meticulous modern restoration, this example stands out as a rare opportunity. A detailed photo gallery and restoration video are now available. We invite interested collectors to inquire for further information or to schedule a private viewing!

JAGUAR MARK II  HISTORY

Adhering to William Lyons' maxim of "grace, pace and space", the Mark II was a beautiful, fast and capable saloon car. It came with a 2.4 L, 3.4 L or 3.8 L Jaguar XK6 engine. The 3.8 is similar to the unit used in the 3.8 E-Type (XKE), having a different inlet manifold and carburetion (two SUs versus three on the E-Type in Europe) and therefore 30 bhp less. The head of the six cylinder engine in the E-Type was also different with its "straight port" layout as opposed to the slightly curved ports of the Mark II. The Mark II model was raced successfully in the European Touring Car Championship.