1967 Jaguar 420

The last of the Jaguar compact saloons, the 420 was launched in 1966. Jaguar had not the time or budget to restyle the front end of the S-Type when it was launched, something that was rectified with the 420, mirroring the style of the Mk10 (later renamed 420G).  The 420 was given the ‘full-cream’ 4.2 litre XK straight-six engine and twin SU carburettors. Combined with independent rear suspension and disc-brake set-up from the E-Type, and twin switchable fuel tanks, Autosport’s John Bolster famously described it as the best sports saloon available ‘at any price’. Produced for only 2 years it nevertheless outsold the continued S-Type and was the last of Jaguar’s compact saloons before the XJ replaced both these and the larger saloons.

‘JON 884E’ is likely the finest available example for sale. It is believed to have covered just over 41,000 miles from first registration in April 1967, indicated by the condition of the car, the collection of MOTs back to it’s first in 1970.  Nonetheless, the engine was fully rebuild in 2017 and it has covered little more than 1,000 ‘running in’ miles since.  As well as the original owners-manual and folder, the heritage certificate confirms it as a matching numbers car still in it’s original specification as sold by Jaguar dealer P.J. Evans of Birmingham. It is fitted with all the desirable options; all-syncro manual gearbox with overdrive; wire wheels (on recent Michelin X tyres) and; power steering. It has the original polished cam covers, denoting an early production car, and the original dealer ‘P J Evans of Birmingham’ tread plates. 

In the current ownership since April 2016, the car has been maintained regardless of cost – including a full engine rebuild (photos and invoices available) and gearbox in 2017.   Stored in a heated and de-humidified garage, the original leather seats are similarly in wonderful original in condition as is all the trim and woodwork.  The shut lines are immaculate and the body and paint are very good indeed. The rear discs and pads were replaced while the rear sub-frame was removed. A new smaller diameter leather Jaguar ‘E-Type style’ mota-lita steering wheel has been fitted (which works well with the power steering) but the original is also supplied. A period radio is fitted which has a discrete auxiliary audio input connection. Finally, the car is fitted with discrete battery isolator switch and connector for a ctek battery conditioner and a tailored indoor cover. A highly original low mileage Jaguar 4.2 litre performance saloon with all of the right specifications and significant expenditure bringing the car to show standard over the last 7 years.