Daimler 420 Sovereign

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. The Daimler version cost over £100 more and was almost identical but had every available option including power steering and a heated rear screen as standard.

Only in production from 1966 to 1968, just 10,236 were produced as Jaguars and 5,824 as Daimlers so it is also comparatively rare. All the more remarkable then, that it is so humbly valued today.

This particular Daimler automatic dates from March 1968 and has had just five owners to date. Within the last 12 months it has been subject to much expenditure including: a full brake overhaul; new front shock absorbers and ball joints; new front subframe mountings; carburettors rebuilt; engine tuned and serviced; electronic ignition fitted; new battery; new tyres; new carpets; new headlining and sunvisors.

Said to drive really well, it comes with a long MOT and is ‘on the button’ and ready to go.