Jaguar S-type (1963 – 1968) Review

Jaguar S-type (1963 – 1968) At A Glance

4/5

+Quicker and better to drive than the Jaguar Mk2

-Uglier than the Jaguar Mk2

The story of Jaguar’s Mk2 family is complicated - the original Mk1 was transformed into the Mk2 before being re-jigged into the 240/340. There were also two further offshoots, the similar looking S-type and the 420 (and let's not forget the V8 engined Daimler versions). The 1963 S-type was technically more sophisticated than the Mk1 and Mk2.

The catalyst for the introduction of the S-type seems to have been the launch of the MkX as the new top of the range Jaguar. With its independent rear suspension, better handling and smoother ride, it made the Mk2 look antiquated. Therefore Jaguar needed a more sophisticated car than the Mk2 to fill the gap in the range that had emerged between it and the MkX.

Using the Mk2 as a starting point, the company created the S-type by adding the MkX’s independent rear suspension and extended rear end styling (and a subtlely revised nose), as well as improving its interior. The end result was a fine luxury sports saloon that actually drives better than the car it was based. And that usefully extending the life (and profitability) of the Mk2 platform.

Ask Honest John

I want a premium, comfortable car. What do you suggest?

"I'm thinking about going down to one car. I'm selling my 2004 Jaguar S-Type and my 2016 Honda Jazz. I'm considering a secondhand Jaguar F-Pace. I want something comfortable with a decent suspension as the roads are so bad, as well as all the bells and whistles. What do you think? Thanks."
I'd recommend the Lexus NX; it was rated as the best SUV for comfort, in our latest Satisfaction Index: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/honest-john-satisfaction-index-2020/top-10-most-comfortable-cars
Answered by Dan Powell

Should I trade my 2006 Jaguar S Type in for the newer model?

"I bought a 2006 Jaguar S Type 2.7-litre diesel back in April while I was between jobs to see me through. Having now returned to work I am wondering whether I should replace the car for a newer model, say a 3.0-litre diesel Jaguar XF at £15,000 plus trade-in, but as the current car is fine and in good condition it seems a waste to trade it in. I have recently had it serviced and replaced the cam belt as it had reached 80,000. I know you say that there are DPF issues with older diesels but I will be doing 15-20,000 miles a year so a diesel is necessary. What would your advice be given that I am happy with the S Type and what should I do to ensure the longevity of the car?"
If you're happy, keep it. Quite a few problems with XFs. Got into the top 10 most complained about cars: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-cars/2016-12/top-10-hjs-most-complained-about-cars/ Your timing belt was wise. Problems with S-Type here: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/jaguar/s-type-1999/?section=good/
Answered by Honest John

What is my Honda CR-X worth and what should I replace it with?

"I have owned a Honda CRX for 24 years. It is due for some rust treatment and a respray later this month. However I am now 55 and my wife and friends feel that I should get a car more suitable for a middle aged man. Two questions. First, is my CRX valuable now and will it appreciate in value? Second, the only advantage of getting older is that car insurance is relatively cheap, and I only do about 5,000 miles a year in my car. I fancy a car that cost its original owner a tidy sum but is now 10 or so years old, is of high spec and reliable. My budget is about £5000. Do you have any suggestions?"
Right now Toyota Celicas are looking like good buys with some potential to become neo ‘classics’, though of course, you'll meet the same criticism that you do of the CRX. Big saloons expensive then but cheap now include Jaguar XJs, Jaguar S-Types and Mercedes W220 S Class. But rust is a huge problem on W220 S Class. As you know, the problem with CRXs is rust. Due to the way the car is constructed it can be impossible to fix. But if your rust is only cosmetic then the car could be an appreciating asset. You'll get an idea what they are going for from Pistonheads or from the club.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions