A rare opportunity to acquire a beautifully presented and exceptionally well-provenanced Jaguar S-Type 3.4, a highly desirable manual example with overdrive and the sought after addition of power steering, offering an outstanding blend of period charm, refinement and usability.
Further enhancing the car’s provenance, this Jaguar has been owned and cared for by William Heynes Ltd, highly regarded Jaguar specialists based in Alcester. Named after the legendary Jaguar engineer William Heynes, the company continues today as a third-generation family business dedicated to the preservation and restoration of classic Jaguars. Within the Jaguar world they are widely respected for their meticulous craftsmanship, with a number of their restorations of the iconic Jaguar E Type regarded among the finest in the world, often completed to the very highest standards of originality, integrity and concours quality. It is therefore particularly reassuring to know that this Jaguar S Type 3.4 has most recently been owned and maintained by such a distinguished Jaguar specialist.
Supplied new to Wadhams Ltd of Cowes as their official demonstrator, this is a particularly well-provenanced example with a long and interesting history.
Finished in elegant Old English White with a striking red leather interior, the car has been cherished by its long term previous owner for over 33 years, with only three previous keepers during its lifetime. In the early 1990s it was the subject of a comprehensive restoration supported by detailed photographic records. The work included a bare-shell rebuild, full repaint, extensive re-chroming and rust protection treatment using Dinitrol, together with a waxed underbody.
The interior was fully refurbished to a high standard while retaining its classic character, featuring beautifully presented red leather seats, a polished walnut veneer dashboard and matching door cappings.
Mechanical attention has been equally thorough. In later years the engine, gearbox and rear suspension have all been overhauled. The car has also been thoughtfully upgraded for modern classic motoring, including Coopercraft front brakes, uprated suspension, hydraulic power steering, higher ratio rear differential giving a more relaxed high geared cruising, front and rear inertia reel seat belts and a Moto-Lita steering wheel, all enhancing the driving experience while respectfully preserving the car’s originality.
The body and paintwork present exceedingly well, displaying a deep lustre and impressive shine. The car sits on chrome wire wheels and benefits from the desirable 'Webasto' style sliding sunroof, adding further to its period appeal. The underside appears solid and well protected, reflecting careful maintenance throughout its life and clear evidence that the car has been maintained regardless of cost.
Accompanying the car is a substantial and impressive history file including invoices, receipts, previous MOT certificates and written correspondence dating back many years. It also retains its original handbook, original service book and even the original Jaguar S-Type factory brochure , a rare and valuable addition.
Often overlooked, the S-Type is in many respects superior to the celebrated Jaguar Mark 2, benefiting from the Jaguar E-Type-derived independent rear suspension with inboard brakes, delivering a notably more refined ride and improved handling.
This example drives superbly, powered by the legendary Jaguar 3.4 litre twin-cam straight six engine with twin carburettors, producing the unmistakable sound and character expected of a 1960s Jaguar.
Now classed as a historic vehicle, it benefits from free road tax and MOT exemption, although it will be supplied with a fresh 12 months MOT for peace of mind.
For complete peace of mind, this vehicle has undergone an independent inspection by 'Nostalgic Classic Appraisals' of Wisbech. As a fully unaffiliated specialist, they have verified the car’s description, condition, and authenticity. The report is available on request via email.
An exceptional opportunity to acquire a beautiful, very well maintained and highly usable example of this increasingly appreciated Jaguar sporting saloon.