Something For The Weekend – Jaguar two hundred forty and Mk2 Two
Something For The Weekend – Jaguar two hundred forty and Mk2 Two.Four
By branding the Mk2 Two.Four and subsequent two hundred forty ‘the best Jaguar bargain of all time’, the stiff could have been accused of throwing its entry-level model to the hounds of snobbery, and in some respects it did.
But the thick popularity of the larger-engined Mk2s – some of which now guideline prices of £40k-plus – has played into the forearms of the Two.4-litre, which is visually almost identical to the range-topping cars.
It’s not the same, of course, and most 240s make do with Ambla vinyl seats (many of which don’t recline), but there’s still slew of wood to elevate it above less prestigiously badged classics.
It’s the engine that proved the fattest sticking point for some potential owners at the time but, spectacle shortfalls notwithstanding, this can seem a trifle harsh now. They’re very likely more economical, too, if not by much.
The Two.Four was derived from the Trio.4-litre XK units, with the drop in capacity achieved by chopping an inch off the top of the block – rather than narrowing the cylinder bore.
The result was a shorter stroke (down from 106mm to 76.5mm), over-square engine that was lighter and more free-revving than the one it sat below in the range.
The icing on the cake was Jaguar’s decision to fit an E-type style straight-port cylinder head, twin 1¾in carburettors and a water-heated inlet manifold.
And, if its pedigree was ever in any doubt, it is worth remembering that this was the only iteration of the XK engine ever fitted into a GP car.
So, while the two hundred forty may be a lesser model, it’s still a good classic and a potential bargain when compared to other Mk2-shaped cars.
Such a bargain can be found on our classifieds in the form of this one thousand nine hundred sixty eight 240 automatic that’s up for sale at £8750.
It has covered just 43,000 miles and the history file includes proof of both an engine and gearbox rebuild. Coming with a 12-month MoT, the Jaguar also features a stainless-steel harass and, best of all, leather – albeit we’re told the latter’s in need of a good clean.
Given the work that has been carried out, we’ve no reason to believe that this car is anything other than flawlessly serviceable, but for peace of mind a thorough inspection is advised.
Rust can affect the wings, double-skinned wheelarches, floors and sills, door bottoms, plus the rear spring-hanger structure.
Well-maintained engines should be good for 100,000 miles, but check for fluid leaks and signs of overheating. Other problem mechanicals include the front suspension, which should be serviced every 30,000 miles and will quickly wear if it’s not, and the braking system that can suffer from leaks on little-used cars.
Automatic gearboxes can last 80,000 miles inbetween rebuilds, while potential buyers should be wary of manuals that leap out of gear or suffer excessive layshaft noise.
As ever there’s a wealth of owners’ skill on the internet from clubs such as www.jec.org.uk, www.jaguardriver.co.uk and www.jaguarmk2.co.uk.
Spend just a little more and you could have this one thousand nine hundred sixty six Mk2 that’s presently up for sale at £9995. It was resprayed three years ago, while mechanical work includes a brake overhaul, a rebuilt cylinder head and replacement camshafts. It also features original-fit leather and a manual ’box with overdrive.
While being dubbed the ‘bargain Jaguar’ may have been a poisoned chalice when the two hundred forty was launched, it now plays into the mitts of enthusiasts who can’t fairly spread to a larger-engine Mk2.
Use our free Buyer’s Guide to find a good two hundred forty and you’ll get a classic that’s excellent in its own right, while also being cloaked in one of the classic car world’s most endearing shapes.
