The Essential Buyers Guide Jaguar Mark 1 & 2 - Softcover

The Jaguar Mkl and Mk 2 saloons were the quintessential British spons sedan between 1955 and 1969 (1967 in the U.S.). They were fast, compact, elegant - and still are - and a bargain when new. lf properly maintained, they remain without peer, but they're all at least 42 years old and caveat emptor never carried more weight. The first Mk 1 was the 2.4· 1itreof 1955, followed by the 3.4·1itre in 1957 - both with the smaller windows and narrow rear track. The more common Mk 2of 1959, boasted larger windows, a wider rear axle and offered the 3.8-1itre motor, making it the fastest production saloon in the world. When Jaguar bought Daimler in 1960. it inherited the excellent 25 ·1itre VS from me Dan sports car and that was fined in the Jaguar body for a very smooth V8 saloon. The 1963 S-types offered smoother trim, independent rear suspension and a larger boot. In 1966, the S-type with the 4 .2-litre engine and styling cues from the tubby Mk X, slimmed down onto the Mk 2 platform. The Mk 2 and S-Types were discontinued in 1969, but 240 and 340 saloons lingered along with the Daimler V8 unril 1969, when the XJ6 took over the whole show. This book (thankfully just about pocket-sized) is an excellent guide to the pitfalls inherent in Jaguar ownership and spends a lot of time simply warning the prospective buyer what to look out for. It's panicularly important in the case of Jaguars} as the "red mist" can descend at any time, with the accompanying "I can fix it later" mantra. The author goes very thoroughly into the details of examining a prospective purchase, from the quick walk around, looking for obvious things like rust (a big bugbear), paint, body damage, tire wear, teaks (in and under) wear to the interior and engine compartment details. Then he examines each model with regard to correctness and what to look for specifically, in regards to drive train, body, brakes, suspension, electrics and interior. He also explains the importance of complete records, handbooks, manual and tools, lists clubs repair services and parts suppliers. Provenance: .... Nigel Thorley is clearly~in Jaguars of this period and 1 wouldn't be surprised to learn he had run a repair and restoration shop. Even on·line searching finds sparse details, beyond his being a founding member of the Jaguar Enthusiasts Club and having written about a dozen Jaguar books. So he gets 3·Stars, but the book gets none, for nor telling us about him. Fit and finish: Excellent, perfect-bound with glossy cover, clear typography, useful photographs, checklists and statistics. Drlvability: Apan from oil and waterproof pages (which would be handy for working in the field) it's hard ro fault this book, as it is by design portable. Take it with you, and if necessary, wave it in front of a seller who's shooring you a line. --Hagerty's Magazine

An other in this Soft-covered book series which is a must for buyers of older models. Jaguar authority, Nigel Thorley, who is a multi-Jaguar book author and is drenched in Jaguar knowledge, covers the pitfalls and benefits of purchasing every variation of the Mk1 and Mk2 ... --Jaguar Magazine

For anyone with an interest in, or who is thinking of buying, one of the classic Jaguar compact saloons from the 1950s and 1960s, this Essential Buyer's Guide is a vital requirement. All the models are covered, from the early 2.4- and 3.4-litre saloons from the late 1950s, through to the very last 240 models, and, just as importantly, the Daimler derivatives with V8 engines. The models are looked at in detail, and analysed for their strengths and weaknesses, to provide the best possible advice on what to look for and how to buy the best you can afford. A handy pocket-sized guide that will always be at your side for constant reference.