S-type 3.4 timeline

1959

Four years on from the release the Jaguar 2.4 saloon (retrospectively known as the MkI) the revised Mk2 arrives. The largestengined 3.8 was for a time the fastest production saloon car in the world.

1963

Slotting in between the Mk2 and the larger MkX (launched in 1961) is the S-type, with a modified platform of the former, but the independent rear suspension of the latter. Available with manual or auto ’boxes, engine options are 3.4 and 3.8. It weighs in 152kg heavier than the Mk2 so the S-type was never sold with the 2.4.

1964

An all-synchro manual ’box is added to the options list in October for those who found the Moss ‘box a misery.

1965

Aforementioned all-synchro ‘box becomes standard in March, while June sees the three-speed Borg Warner DG automatic replaced by a Type 35 unit.

1966

The 4.2-litre engine is introduced as the Jaguar 420 and Daimler Sovereign. Although they share the same bodywork as the S-type from the windscreen back, they have the frontal design of the outgoing MkX.

1967

The Mk2 is retired with 83,980 built – significantly more than the S-type. Rationalised 240 and 340 saloons fill the void for a couple of years prior to the XJ6.

1968

Production of the S-type ends with 25,171 built at Browns Lane, with a roughly 2:3 split between the 3.4-litre and 3.8-litre cars.