1968 JAGUAR 420 SALOON

When the first Jaguar XJ model – the seminal XJ6 – went into production in late 1968, it was lauded for its refinement, handling, roadholding and performance. The fact that it also addressed some traditional Jaguar weaknesses made it a true ground-breaker in the luxury saloon stakes. The waiting list quickly became so long that premiums of up to 50 per cent were allegedly paid for early 4.2-litre examples.

Production of the legendary 3.8-litre Mark II had ended in the second half of 1967, which begs the question, what was the most sporting Jaguar saloon to precede the game-changing XJ?

The answer is the 420 of which one of the final examples is driven here. Built for less than two years and in modest numbers (9801 in all), the 420’s 235bhp straight-six was the time-honoured XK unit and it propelled the old-school express to 100km/h in under 10 seconds. Top speed was an even 200km/h. The 420’s trump cards were its generous spread of torque and excellent stability at speed that elevated it above the S type. Typically sporting suspension (independent front and rear) did not compromise a supple ride on the flowing roads it devoured while disc brakes at each corner shed pace with reassurance.

This prime example featuring Jaguar’s column-shift automatic is little changed from when it reached New Zealand in the 1970s. It has been repainted once in close to the original colour and new wire wheels have been fitted. The velour, chrome and polished wood are all in excellent condition and the cabin remains original except for a rear-seat retrim, the addition of modern safety belts, and a sporting three-spoke steering wheel that hints at a motor racing link.