The Coombs Jaguar is a modified version of the Jaguar Mk. II 3.8 litre that was prepared for racing in the 1960s by the Coombs race team. The Coombs Jaguar was known for its performance, handling, and braking, and was driven by notable drivers including Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori. Essentially, the Coombs conversion for road cars consisted of an uprated engine matched by steering and suspension modifications, but the company offered a plethora of options from which customers could choose. They included an additional fuel tank, a wood-rim steering wheel and a chrome plated boot rack. Coombs would also modify the rear wheel arches, removing the spats and making up rolled edges to match the profile of the front wheel arches. The primary objective of this was to improve access for wheel changing during motorsport events, but the modification improved the appearance of the car so much that it is surprising Jaguar themselves did not adopt the modification for production cars. Not all the Coombs cars had the same state of tune, but the typical engine had 9:1 compression pistons, a lightened flywheel and a different carburettor air-intake system. The whole bottom-end assembly would be balanced and the cylinder head would be gas-flowed. A number of Coombs-style cars feature a louvred bonnet but this was not an advertised option in the early days.

This stunning Coombs evocation was purchased by our vendor in 2005 as a standard manual 3.4 litre Mk. II. A two-owner car at the time, it was first registered on 7th May 1969. Our vendor ran the car and enjoyed it for some time, in 2011 the decision however was taken to fully restore and uprate the car to a fast road, 'Coombs Evocation' with no stone unturned, a project that spanned three years completing in 2014. The cost of the build was well into six figures and when completed the quality, comfort and ability of the car enabled our vendor to take the car on the Gumball 3000 rally, stretching its legs amongst modern Lamborghinis, Ferraris and the world's top supercars, rubbing shoulders with celebrities on the way.

The build for HOO 429B started with a chemical dipped bodyshell prior to any repairs, then a second chemical dip before an 'E Cote' was carried out on the completed bodyshell. The engine compartment and inner wings were modified to accommodate the additional required equipment and the 3.4 litre engine was raised to 3.8 litres. Specially designed performance camshafts were made and added to component upgrades with Triple SU carburettors during the rebuild providing 280bhp at the flywheel and 315 lbft of torque at 4600rpm fed by twin fuel tanks with two position Monza filling caps. The engine is mated to a five speed fully re-built 'Supra' gearbox and bespoke prop shaft with limited slip differential. The suspension was poly bushed and powder coated and sits on classic Koni race shock absorbers behind the Borrani wire wheels and three eared Borrani spinners. A stainless-steel exhaust manifold is mated to a bespoke stainless-steel exhaust system and stopping is courtesy of up-rated Coopercraft brakes with dual action servo while cooling via an aluminium radiator and Kenlowe electric cooling fan. Other necessary mechanical upgrades include an up-rated alternator bespoke pedal box with brake balance bar, power steering, oil cooler and bespoke handbrake system.

The car received full bespoke re-wiring before the inside of the car was subject to a raft of upgrades including, upgraded wiper system, electric central locking, electric windows front and rear, twin air conditioning systems to maximise 'in car' cooling, Sundym glass throughout with heated front and rear windscreen and self-dimming rear view mirror. The entire car benefited from a Dynamat sound proofing, Inertia seatbelts were fitted to all seats and a special under rear seat battery box housing a high technology race battery. The car has a high-end sound system, DVD entertainment, safety and security 'tracker' system and a raft of addition convenience lights fitted to the front footwell compartments, under the boot and bonnet, kerb/sill lights on the lower edge of all four doors along with modern door open lights fitted to opening face/edge on all four doors.

Of course, this is all in a cabin finished with European Walnut trim throughout and full leather upholstery with uprated non-Mk. II Jaguar, bespoke trimmed front seats fitted with electric assist motors, seat heaters and Jaguar bespoke trimmed heated rear seats. Looking down the nose of the Coombes style aluminium bonnet and with the necessary wheel spats and Mk. II chromework, this is a stunning example. The shut lines are fantastic and unlike any Mk. II our consignor has seen, the doors shut with an almost Germanic thud rather than a typical Mk. II clang!

Having completed the Gumball rally in 2014 and enjoyed the Mk. II, our vendor has more recently had the engine fully rebuilt with the run in process complete but barely a few hundred miles covered since. Being part of a larger collection it has been used sparingly since its 2014 exploits and warm garaged when not used. One of, if not the most comprehensive upgraded builds we have had the pleasure to offer, this example is sure to be very popular with both Jaguar enthusiasts but also those looking for something very special. A build over £100,000, a 280bhp 3.8litre engine recently rebuilt and having in 2014 completed one of the world's most iconic modern driving events, where will you take it next! Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 2004
Make: Jaguar
Model: Mk. II 'Coombs Evocation'
Registration: HOO 429B
Chassis No: 165035DN
Engine No: KJ2757-8
Mileage: 4,843

* Build in excess of £100,000
* 280bhp 3.8 litre engine with limited slip differential
* Gumball 3000 rally entrant
* Engine rebuild circa 200 miles ago