Jaguar 420 Saloon

To those in the know, the 420 is perhaps the ultimate classic Jaguar saloon. Bigger and far more luxurious than the MkII that it replaced, it also had much superior ride and handling thanks to its independent rear suspension. The fabulous front end styling was like a scaled down MkX and the 4.2-litre engine was virtually to E-Type spec, producing 245bhp and 283lb/ft of torque. The magic 100mph was comfortably achieved and further refinements included notably quick steering, dual circuit brakes, alternator electrics and a limited-slip differential.

Priced at £2,064 including tax, it was less than half the price of a Bristol 410 Saloon and less than one-third of the price of a contemporary T-Series Bentley and yet was easily the equal of both these cars. Only in production from 1966 to 1968, just 10,236 were produced so it is also comparatively rare. All the more remarkable then, that it is so humbly valued today.

This particular 420 automatic was first registered in November 1968 and was acquired by the current owner in 1985. The bodywork appears to be in good condition throughout but the dark green paintwork is rather poor. The tan leather interior is all original and in largely good condition with a pleasing patina.

Although it is in running order, the car has not been used on the road for some time and will doubtless benefit from some recommissioning before being put back into use. It comes with an owner’s handbook and a modern V5C.