The Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Sports Saloon occupies a significant place in British motoring history, combining performance, practicality and understated style in a way few contemporaries could match.

In 3.8-litre form, the Mk2 became one of the fastest saloons of its era, offering a compelling blend of refinement and outright pace.

However, in the hands of noted Jaguar dealer and racing driver John Coombs, these cars were developed further into highly capable competition and fast road machines, their reputation cemented through success in British saloon car racing during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Genuine Coombs-modified examples are now particularly rare and highly regarded.

This example, chassis number 231336DN, was supplied new via Henlys of London to its first owner, Bob Jennings, who is understood to have later owned a Lightweight E-Type.

Seeking enhanced performance beyond the already capable standard specification, Jennings commissioned John Coombs to modify the car shortly aft...