Launched in 1959 at the Earls Court Motor Show, London, the Jaguar Mk 2 became an overnight sensation with its daring design, graceful curves and powerful XK-derived six-cylinder engines, including the top-of-the-range 3.8-litre that delivered 220bhp and a top speed of 125mph. In addition to its supreme road-going performance, the Jaguar Mk 2 was extremely competitive on the race track, scoring countless saloon car victories in the hands of greats such as Roy Salvadori and Graham Hill.
Production of the 3.8 ended by 1967. There was no direct successor to the Mark 2 series.