BUYING GUIDE
THE SIXTIES S-type is often seen as second best to the Mk 2, but it’s technically superior in many ways with a more modern independent rear suspension set-up (the Mk 2 has a rigid live axle), better interior heating, and if you can live with its slightly larger proportions that offer more space, it represents a more economical route into classic Jaguar ownership than many other saloons from this era. Buy wisely however, because an S-type will generally cost more than a Mk 2 to restore and will be worth less afterwards.
Launched in October 1963, the S-type wasn’t intended to replace the Mk 2, but was marketed as a cheaper and smaller alternative to the Mk X, which used the same rear suspension system and offered a high level of equipment including disc brakes all round and a choice of 3.4- or 3.8-litre XK engines.
The Mk 2 did however outlive the S-type, continuing in its 240 and 340 guise, with the former lasting until April 1969, whereas the S-type ceased production at the end of 1968 with sales totalling 24,993 (9,928 for the 3.4-litre and 15,065 for the 3.8).
Dimensions, performance and practicalities
There’s less than 20cm between the length of a Mk 2 and S-type, which appears to be largely in the tail, but at a mere 4.75m (15ft 7in) long, the S-type is a similar length to an X-TYPE. It’s nearly an inch slimmer than a Mk 2 at 1.68m (5ft 6.5in) and also shorter in height by a couple of inches. So, despite it looks long and large, if you can fit an X-TYPE or larger XF in your garage, you’ll have no trouble with an older S-type.
Whilst the dimensions of an S-type don’t seem too daunting, its weight is quite a surprise for an all-steel monocoque, which is between 3,584 and 3,696Ibs (1,625-1,676kg). Consequently, a two-ton trolley jack and axle stands are the least you’ll need for raising the vehicle to change wheels, service brakes and complete similar jobs.
The weight of the vehicle doesn’t mean the S-type is sluggish, with a 0-60mph time of between 10 and 11 seconds and a top speed of up to 121mph. However, don’t expect the fuel economy to be saving you money at around 20mpg.
The interior can accommodate four passengers with ease. Front seatbelt mounting points were fitted from the start of production, but seatbelts only became compulsory on new cars in 1965, so they may need to be retrofitted to some pre-65 models. Rear seatbelts were never fitted.
Values
Restoration projects start at around £5,000-£6,000, whereas seemingly roadworthy examples start at around £15,000, rising up to three or four times this amount for recent restorations or low-mileage, mothballed examples. Be wary of anything that has avoided the annual MOT test due to exemption and which claims to be in perfect condition for the road – insist on an MOT test.
Cheap is not al
