Jaguar 240 (1967-69)
240 & 340 Production Total: 7,234
Recorded in UK 2024
240 Licensed=787 SORN=271
240 Automatic Licensed=18 SORN=6
The classic Jaguar 240—a true embodiment of timeless elegance and British automotive craftsmanship! Let's delve into the quirks and occasional hiccups that might have graced these vintage beauties.
1. **Transmission Blues**:
- The Jaguar 240 came equipped with a Moss manual gearbox. Now, this gearbox is like that quirky friend who insists on doing things their own way. First gear? No synchromesh. Yep, you heard it right. So, when you're downshifting into first, channel your inner zen master and synchronize those revs gracefully.
2. **Rubber-Bushed Subframes**:
- Jaguar worked diligently to isolate road noise in the Mk2 series, including the 240. Those rubber-bushed subframes were like noise-canceling headphones for the chassis. A well-maintained 240 should be perfectly capable of covering long distances without fatiguing its occupants. No need for earplugs—just enjoy the purr of that straight-six engine.
3. **Price Hierarchy**:
- Now, let's talk brass tacks. There's a clear hierarchy when it comes to Jaguar Mk2 prices, and the 240 sits at the more affordable end of the spectrum. You might find one in scruffy but working condition starting around £6000. Not bad for a piece of automotive history, right? Just remember that patina adds character!
4. **Interior Evolution**:
- As the Mk2 evolved into the 240, there were some changes. The later 240 models might have cost-cut interiors and less-than-lovely Ambla trim. But hey, it's all part of the vintage charm. Who needs fancy touchscreen infotainment when you've got wood veneer and classic toggle switches?
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Generations
The Jaguar 240—a classic cat that prowled the roads with elegance and a hint of British charm! Let's unravel the generations of this feline beauty, shall we?
1. **Jaguar Mk2 (1955-1967)**:
- Our journey begins with the venerable Jaguar Mk2. Picture it: wood veneer, chrome accents, and a straight-six engine humming like a contented tabby. The Mk2 was the original blueprint, the genesis of the lineage.
- But wait, there's more! It evolved into the S-Type (1963), which flaunted independent rear suspension and shared showroom space with the Mk2. Think of it as the Mk2's sophisticated cousin, sipping Earl Grey tea in the corner.
2. **Jaguar 240 and 340 (1967-1969)**:
- In September 1967, Jaguar decided to give the Mk2 a makeover. Out went the 3.8-liter engine, and in came the 240 and 340. These were like the stylish interim models, filling the gap until the grand entrance of the XJ6 in September 1968.
- **Jaguar 240**: A budget-friendly charmer, the 240 retained the Mk2's spirit but with a fresh twist. It had a 2.4-liter engine (133 bhp) and enough oomph to breach the 100 mph barrier. Leather seats? Nah, let's go with man-made Ambla—because even Jaguars need a wardrobe update.
- **Jaguar 340**: The 340, on the other hand, clung to its 3.4-liter glory. With 210 bhp, it was still a performer, waltzing through corners and leaving tire marks like a seasoned dancer. It's like the 340 said, "Why fix what ain't broke?"
- Fun fact: The 340 got discontinued when the XJ6 stole the spotlight, but the 240 soldiered on as a budget-friendly option until April 1969. Its price tag (£1364) was only £20 more than the first 2.4 back in 1956. Talk about inflation-resistant elegance!
3. **The XJ6 Arrives (1968)**:
- And then, like a debutante at a ball, the Jaguar XJ6 twirled onto the scene. Sleek lines, grace, and that unmistakable Jaguar growl—it was love at first sight. The Mk1/Mk2 platform had stretched its legs, and the XJ6 was here to lead the pack.
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Trim Levels
The Jaguar 240—a classic cat that prowled the roads with elegance and a hint of British charm! Let's unravel the trim levels of this vintage beauty, shall we?
**1. Jaguar 240**:
- The Jaguar 240 was like that well-dressed guest at a vintage soirée. It arrived in 1967, winking at the outgoing Mk2 models and saying, "Fear not, dear enthusiasts, I've got this."
- **Engine**: Under the bonnet, it carried a 2.4-liter engine, purring out 133 bhp. Finally, enough power to breach the 100 mph barrier! No more leisurely Sunday drives—this cat had places to be.
- **Interior**: Now, here's where the budget-friendly magic happened. Inside, leather gave way to man-made Ambla. Yes, Ambla—the synthetic material that probably whispered, "I'm like leather, but without the cow guilt." And strangely, power-assisted steering decided to take a vacation from the options list. So, turning the wheel felt a tad more cumbersome. Maybe the 240 wanted to build those biceps.
**2. Jaguar 340**:
- The 340, on the other hand, was like the 240's suave sibling. It retained its 3.4-liter engine, boasting 210 bhp. Performance? Oh, it was there—all the corner-carving, tire-squealing goodness you'd expect.
- **Price Tag**: But wait, the 340 was cleverly priced below its predecessors. It winked at buyers, saying, "Hey, you want that 3.4-liter punch without breaking the bank? I've got you covered."
- **Interior Redux**: Inside, it was still a classy affair, even if leather had surrendered to Ambla. Imagine the dashboard conversations: "Darling, is this real leather?" "Nah, it's Ambla. Very avant-garde."
**3. The 420G (Not a Trim Level, But Worth a Mention)**:
- The 420G, a distant cousin, shared the 420 name. But it was like the black sheep of the family—a revised MkX, announced alongside the 420 saloon. Confusing? Absolutely.
- **Power Move**: The 420G flaunted a 4.2-liter XK engine, flexing its muscles. Its front end? Completely restyled, giving a sneak peek of the upcoming XJ6. It was like saying, "Hey, XJ6, watch out—I'm coming for your spotlight!"
And there you have it, my fellow vintage car aficionado! The Jaguar 240 and 340—two cats with distinct personalities, ready to prowl the tarmac. So, next time you see one, give a nod of appreciation. After all, they're part of automotive history, and their quirks make them all the more endearing.
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Engines
The heartbeat of the Jaguar 240—the engine that purred its way through winding roads and whispered secrets to the wind. Let's lift the bonnet (or hood, for our American friends) and peek inside, shall we?
The **Jaguar 240**, that dapper cat from the late '60s, was powered by a naturally aspirated engine with a 2.5-liter capacity. Here are the juicy details:
- **Engine Configuration**: Picture this—a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) setup, six cylinders arranged in a harmonious layout, and two valves per cylinder. It's like a symphony of mechanical precision.
- **Power Output**: This elegant feline developed **133 bhp** (or **135 PS** if you prefer metric units) at a rev-happy **5500 rpm**. That's the kind of power that makes your heart skip a beat when you press the accelerator.
- **Torque**: When it came to twisting force, the 240 didn't disappoint. It delivered a maximum torque of **198 N·m** (or **146 lb·ft**, if you're more fluent in pound-feet) at a relaxed **3700 rpm**. Torque—because life needs a little twist sometimes.
Now, here's the fun part: With this upgraded 4.2-style cylinder head, the Jaguar 240 finally had enough oomph to breach the magical **100 mph** barrier. Imagine the wind tousling its chrome whiskers as it stretched its legs on the open road!
And don't forget its suave sibling, the **Jaguar 340**—still a car of great ability, with the same 210 bhp engine as before. It continued to sell like hotcakes, proving that age is just a number when you've got performance in your veins.
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Performance
1. **Power Output**:
- The Jaguar 240 was no wallflower. Under its elegant bonnet, it housed a 2.5-liter straight-six engine. Picture a symphony of mechanical precision—a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) setup with two valves per cylinder.
- This refined powerplant churned out **133 bhp** (or **135 PS**, if you're feeling metric) at a rev-happy **5500 rpm**. That's the kind of power that makes your heart skip a beat when you press the accelerator. Imagine the wind tousling its chrome whiskers as it stretched its legs on the open road!
2. **Acceleration**:
- From a standstill to **60 mph**, the Jaguar 240 took a respectable **12.5 seconds**. Not lightning-fast, but it had that dignified British charm. It's like the car said, "Why rush? Let's arrive with poise."
- Now, here's the fun part: With an upgraded 4.2-style cylinder head, the 240 finally had enough oomph to breach the magical **100 mph** barrier. Imagine the countryside blurring past as you hit that century mark. Pure vintage exhilaration!
3. **Fuel Economy**:
- Efficiency wasn't forgotten either. The 240 offered a decent balance between performance and sipping fuel. Expect to dance around **20 mpg**—not bad for a classic cat with a penchant for elegance.
4. **Cost-Cutting and Ambla Trim**:
- Inside, however, there were some changes. Leather seats gave way to man-made **Ambla**—a synthetic material that probably whispered, "I'm like leather, but without the cow guilt." And strangely, power-assisted steering decided to take a vacation from the options list. So, turning the wheel felt a tad more cumbersome. Maybe the 240 wanted to build those biceps.
In summary, the Jaguar 240 was a blend of grace, power, and a touch of British quirkiness. It didn't need to break speed records; it simply cruised with sophistication. So, next time you see one, give it a nod of respect—it's not just an engine; it's a piece of motoring history.
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Spares
1. **Just Jags**:
- This online retailer is like the Aladdin's cave for Jaguar parts and spares in the UK. Picture it: shelves lined with polished chrome, boxes of gaskets whispering secrets, and a hotline to Jaguar wisdom.
- **Location**: You won't need a magic carpet; just head to **Neilston Street, Leamington**. They're open from Monday to Friday, **10:00 AM to 4:00 PM**. Dial them up at **01926 427375** and say, "I seek Jaguar 240 treasures!"
- **Website**: If you prefer virtual adventures, visit their website: [Just Jags](https://www.justjagsuk.com/). It's like a digital safari for vintage car enthusiasts.
2. **SC Parts**:
- These folks are passionate about Jaguars, especially the Mark II and Daimler V8. They've meticulously researched spare parts, creating a market-leading catalogue that's thicker than a Dickens novel.
- **Location**: Well, they're not hiding in a secret garden, but you can explore their wares online. They'll ship directly to your doorstep. No need to saddle up your trusty steed.
- **Website**: Visit [SC Parts](https://www.scparts.co.uk/en/jaguar/jaguar-mark-ii-and-daimler-v8-1959-1969/) and immerse yourself in a world of gaskets, brake servos, and driving pinions. It's like a digital treasure hunt!
3. **Jag Spares International**:
- Established in 1972, these seasoned adventurers have been supplying Jaguar parts and sage advice for almost four decades. They're like the Gandalfs of the Jaguar world.
- **Location**: Their base camp isn't atop Mount Doom; it's accessible online. Navigate to their [Mk2 Saloon 1959-1969 - Body and Fittings](https://www.jagsparesinternational.co.uk/prodcat.asp?root=%7C89%3A256%7C&offset=60) section. There, you'll find door handles, bumpers, and maybe even a map to El Dorado (okay, maybe not El Dorado, but you get the idea).
4. **Genuine Jaguar Parts**:
- These aren't mere replicas; they're immaculately reborn from original plans. Imagine craftsmen in tweed jackets lovingly shaping each part using tools that once built your Jaguar itself.
- **Location**: Well, they're everywhere—like whispers in the wind. But for convenience, explore their offerings on the [Jaguar UK Genuine Parts](https://www.jaguar.co.uk/ownership/maintenance/genuine-parts/index.html) page. It's like a digital tea party with the Queen (if she were a car enthusiast).
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Specialists
1. **Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist**:
- Imagine a garage where Jaguars gather like old friends, sharing tales of open roads and spirited drives. Well, that's **Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist** for you. These mechanics have been nurturing Jaguars in Northern Ireland for over **30 years**.
- **Location**: Their workshop is nestled somewhere between Belfast, Hillsborough, and Lisburn. You won't need a secret map—just dial **028 9268 9006** or visit their website: [Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist](https://www.stephen-groves.co.uk/). They're like the wise sages of the Jaguar realm, armed with Autologic diagnostic equipment and a penchant for unraveling mysteries.
- Fun fact: They're also members of the Institute of The Motor Industry. So, you know they're legit!
2. **Blakely Vehicle Services**:
- Gareth Blakely, the Jaguar whisperer, has been weaving his magic since **2015**. His garage is like a haven for these elegant cats.
- **Location**: You'll find him in **Belfast**, where he's been honing his craft since the late '90s. Whether it's minor repairs or a full engine rebuild, Gareth knows Jaguars like a poet knows verses.
- **Website**: For a glimpse into his world, visit [Blakely Vehicle Services](https://blakelyvehicleservices.co.uk/). It's like stepping into a time capsule where chrome gleams, and engine notes hum.
3. **SC Parts** (For Parts and Wisdom):
- Okay, not a mechanic per se, but these folks are like the ancient scrolls of Jaguar knowledge. They've been deciphering part numbers and unraveling mysteries for ages.
- **Location**: Well, they're everywhere—like whispers in the wind. But their digital lair awaits you at [SC Parts](https://www.scparts.co.uk/en/jaguar/jaguar-mark-ii-and-daimler-v8-1959-1969). Explore their wares, and who knows—you might find the missing link to your Jaguar's soul.
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Racing
The Jaguar 240 wasn't primarily designed as a racing machine. Its heart beat to the rhythm of elegance, not the adrenaline of the track. However, let's dive into the details:
1. **Origins and Purpose**:
- The Jaguar 240 was part of the lineage that began with the iconic **Jaguar Mk2**. These cars were all about "Grace, Space, and Pace," as Sir William Lyons eloquently put it. They graced the roads, offered spacious interiors, and had enough pace to make any enthusiast smile.
- The XK engine—available in various tuning setups—powered these beauties. You could choose from 2.4-, 3.4-, and 3.8-liter versions, with manual or automatic transmissions. But racing? Well, that wasn't their primary gig.
2. **The 240's Power Boost**:
- The 240 received a facelift and an engine upgrade. With its 4.2-style cylinder head, it finally had enough power to breach the magical **100 mph** barrier. Imagine it stretching its legs on open roads, feeling dignified yet spirited.
- But racing circuits? Nah, the 240 preferred the scenic route.
3. **Sibling Rivalry**:
- The 340, its suave sibling, still had the same 210 bhp engine as before. It was no stranger to performance, but it wasn't chasing checkered flags either. Instead, it continued to sell at useful volumes, attracting buyers who craved that 3.4-liter Mk2 magic.
4. **The XJ6 Arrives**:
- By the late '60s, the Mk1/Mk2 platform had stretched its legs. The new kid on the block—the **Jaguar XJ6**—was ready to steal the spotlight. The XJ6 had racing aspirations, but the 240? It preferred a leisurely drive through the countryside.
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