1969 Daimler Sovereign 420 Saloon

The final incarnation of Jaguar's hugely successful Mark 2 compact sports saloon was the 420 and its Daimler derivative, badged the Sovereign. Announced in August 1966, the pair offered even greater levels of luxury whilst benefiting from the latest 4.2-litre version of the legendary XK engine. The frontal aspect was modernised, adopting the basic quad headlamp styling from the big Mark X/420G, with the Daimler version differentiated by its fluted radiator, badges, wheel trims - not forgetting the higher price tag. The Daimler also boasted higher levels of standard equipment - the beautifully finished interior was awash with veneered timber, leather hides and quality carpeting and the description of the Sovereign as a 'gentleman's club on wheels' is particularly apt. . Options included wire-spoked wheels and a Borg-Warner automatic transmission. With twin carburettors and a healthy 245bhp on tap, the Daimler performed very well on the road and, with independent rear suspension, power-assisted steering and Girling discs all round, still drives like a far more modern sports saloon.With a total production of just 5,824 examples made between 1966 and 1969, the Daimler Sovereign is a rare and under appreciated member of the Mark 2 family, making the car on offer here exceptionally good value and tremendously a rewarding classic car to own.