1969 Daimler Sovereign 420 Compact Saloon

Introduced in 1966, the Jaguar 420 was another derivative of the popular Mark II range of compact sports saloons and featured a larger 4.2-litre version of the legendary XK engine along with front-end styling similar to the larger 420G that was a precursor to the forthcoming XJ6. A Daimler version, badged the Sovereign, was built alongside the 420 in limited numbers and featured a higher level of standard equipment in addition to the traditional fluted radiator, badges, wheel trims and higher price tag. 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. The Sovereign also drove superbly thanks to the powerful 245bhp engine, independent rear suspension, four-wheel Girling disc brakes and power-assisted steering and feels distinctly modern in comparison to the more feted but outdated Mark II. Options included wire-spoked wheels and a Borg-Warner Model 8 automatic transmission. The under-rated Daimler Sovereign is the scarcest of all S-Type/420 models, with only 5,824 completed between 1966 and 1969 and is today ownership of one of these classic English sports saloons is no less satisfying than when the cars were new.