1974 Daimler Sovereign 4.2 Saloon (CHARITY LOT)

Jaguar's XJ range of luxury sedans, and their Daimler siblings, set new benchmarks for styling, refinement and a ride quality unmatched by even the top German rivals when introduced in 1968. The Jaguar was a performer as well, in both 4.2-litre six-cylinder or 5.3-litre V12 form and the latter (wearing Daimler badges) was awarded Best Car in the World. Inside, the Jaguar retained the Old World atmosphere of rich timber veneers and leather hides, with plenty of luxury touches. As before, the Daimler versions were the most luxurious XJs available, the traditional fluted grille of the Sovereign promising better quality fittings, upholstery and equipment levels. New Federal Safety Regulations in North America resulted in changes to the styling of the XJ6 and Sovereign, with the smaller, neater frontal appearance arguably better looking than the original Series 1. Launched at the London Motor Show in 1973, the Series 2 saw the range expand to include a stylish pillarless coupe and the 2.8-litre budget model was dropped in favour of a 3.4-litre, with a revised cylinder block design. However, most buyers were attracted to the 4.2-litre model on the longer wheelbase (the short-wheelbase variant was dropped after November 1974 due to poor sales) while the more luxurious Daimler version appealed to those wanting the last word in refinement. Other changes under the skin included ventilated disc brakes with revised master cylinder, a new Borg-Warner Model 65 automatic transmission along with a new dashboard and climate control system.