1968 Jaguar S-Type

1968 Jaguar 3.4 S-Type Automatic
Some classic cars have a story worth telling, and this beautifully presented 1968 Jaguar 3.4 S-Type is certainly one of them.

Finished in elegant Old English White, this characterful sporting saloon combines traditional British luxury with smooth automatic transmission and an extensive documented restoration. Showing 82,155 miles, supported by historic MOT certificates and a substantial history file, the car has had just three owners from new. Remarkably, the first owner, Syd Morris, kept the Jaguar for 44 years until his passing.

Comprehensive Restoration:
The car underwent an extensive restoration during 2013/14, following initial work begun in 2012.
The body was stripped to bare metal, grit blasted and refinished in its current Old English White. Major work included a new front nearside wing, new sills, front crows' feet, rear wheel arch repairs, new front and rear valances, and repairs to the lower door sections. Over £5,000 was spent on replacement panels and fitting alone.

Engine and Mechanical Work
The original 3.4-litre engine was stripped and rebuilt by Lemar Engines, including an engine rebore, new 9:1 compression pistons, valves, valve seals and bearings throughout. The rebuild accounted for over £4,000 in parts and labour.

Further mechanical work includes:

•Rebuilt Borg Warner BW35 automatic gearbox by Torquay Transmissions
•Rebuilt carburettors
•Overhauled Adwest Marles power steering system
•Rebuilt steering box and pump
•New steering hydraulics
•Re-cored radiator
•Brass expansion tank system
Thoughtful Upgrades
To improve reliability and usability, the Jaguar benefits from:
•High-torque starter motor
•Dynamator charging system
•Negative-earth conversion
•Electronic fuel pumps
•Cabin-operated automatic choke switch
•Double S stainless-steel exhaust

The original steel wheels have been replaced with stainless-steel wire wheels fitted with 205/70R15 tyres that have covered fewer than 300 miles.
Excellent chrome detailing is complemented by stainless-steel front and rear bumpers supplied by The Harrington Group.

Interior
The interior retains the warmth and character expected of a traditional British luxury saloon.
The woodwork has been re-lacquered, while the front and rear seats have received new foam. Original seat covers and door cards have been retained to preserve authenticity, while a 16-inch wooden steering wheel adds a subtle sporting touch.

History and Provenance:
One of this Jaguar's most impressive attributes is its history file, which includes:

•Original 1968 service book
•Original owner's handbook
•Extensive invoices and maintenance receipts
•Historic MOT certificates
•More than 2,000 restoration photographs
•Photographs of the original owner with the car
•Images documenting the restoration and rebuild

More than £20,000 has been invested in restoration and improvements since 2012.
A collection of additional spares is also available, including chrome trim, glass and spare lighting components.

A Usable Classic:
For many years this S-Type served as a wedding car in the Torbay area, generating additional income while being enjoyed and maintained by its owner.

It remains a highly usable classic that could continue in a wedding or chauffeur role, attend classic car events, or simply be enjoyed as a distinctive British sporting saloon.
The restoration is now around 12 years old and whilst the car is not being presented as a concours example it is described by its owner as being in excellent condition for its age, with scope for further cosmetic refinement should a new custodian wish.
A characterful, extensively documented Jaguar with fascinating provenance, significant mechanical investment and a restoration story supported by an exceptional photographic record.