Description
Motodrome are pleased to offer this splendid example of one of our favourite 1960’s sporting saloons – a 1968 Jaguar 420 manual overdrive, finished in Cotswold Blue with full beige leather and walnut trim
The 420 was the final evolution of the Jaguar sports saloon before the XJ6, starting with the MK1, then progressing through the iconic MKII and then the S-type, and have a timeless elegance all their own.
With the 245 bhp 4. 2 litre XK engine, power steering, independent rear suspension, and disc brakes all round they’re quick (especially in the sought-after manual with overdrive form), handle well, and make excellent drivers in modern traffic conditions.
This is one of just 840 examples produced in South Africa, and the dry climate there has made these cars very desirable for the UK market. We’re told this one still retains all it’s original panelwork, and it’s door shut lines bear this out as they’re very difficult to get right when one is restored.
The car was repatriated to the UK in 2000 in excellent original condition, but tired cosmetically and mechanically, as befits it’s long life in a warm climate. It was then dry stored until 2010, when it underwent a 2-year restoration including a bare metal repaint (we have lots of pictures of this)
We have lots of service history from both it’s time in Africa, and a really large file from the UK, including a Jaguar World magazine feature on the car in 2019.
History highlights before the last owner took it on in 2020, apart from the bare metal repaint, include new carburettors 2010, new chrome wire wheels 2012, engine rebuild 2013 inc new timing chains, new clutch, reconditioned overdrive and gearbox 2018.
The last owner has used it extensively for continental tours and has done around 9000 miles in it, and has kept up the maintenance including a refurbished steering box, rear suspension and brake overhaul in 2020, new brake master cylinder in 2022, and an interior refresh in 2023. Plus general servicing of course.
Odometer reading 11000 miles, which is really 111000m as you might expect.
Pretty much standard spec save for the fitment of a modern stereo with DAB, but in a classic styled case, badge bar, and wing mirrors.
It looks gorgeous, drives beautifully, and represents excellent value compared to it’s MKII siblings.
On our own website, you’ll find our usual comprehensive walkaround and driving videos, which form part of the description
Nb one or two of the pictures of the rear end show the bootlid slightly up on the nearside. My fault – I hadn’t shut it properly – there are latches on each side and the nearside one wasn’t properly engaged.
Viewing by prior appointment
