Lot details Registration No: VRN600R Chassis No: 28-7854DN Mot Expiry: April 2010
Jaguar launched its XJ model range in September 1968 and it was the last saloon able to boast the input of the company's founder, Sir William Lyons. The XJ was, and still is, the company's flagship, the Daimler Sovereign derivative of which was introduced in October 1969 as a replacement for the Sovereign 420. Externally virtually identical to its Jaguar sibling apart from its fluted radiator grille and Daimler badging, the new Sovereign was initially offered with the choice of either a 2.8 or 4.2-litre version of the ubiquitous XK engine. An updated version, know as the Series II, was introduced in the Autumn of 1973. These cars are distinguishable from their predecessors by the higher front bumper (raised to meet Federal safety regulations) and correspondingly shallower radiator grille. In 1974, what had been the standard wheelbase was discontinued and all subsequent cars built with the previously optional longer one of 112.75in. The following year the 2.8-litre engine option was replaced by a 3.4-litre version of the same XK engine. By now there was also the choice of a 5.3-litre V12 unit, the Daimler models fitted with which being known as Double Sixes - thereby reviving a name from the company's vintage era. Between 1975 and 1978 a two-door pillarless coupe version of the Series II was also offered.
The Series II Sovereign being sold has been in the same family from new and is said to have covered less than 43,000 miles in its 33 years - a mere 1,300 miles per year. Finished in Fern Green and trimmed in Biscuit-coloured leather, it is equipped with the 4.2-litre engine and a manual gearbox. Stated to have been "maintained regardless of cost", it has also apparently been "regularly serviced as part of a cosseted classic car collection". MOT'd and taxed until April 2010, the car is said to be in "nice original condition apart from replacement sills and front cross-member". The owner regards the car as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork and paintwork (while, he rates the interior trim as "very good"). Few cars cosset their occupants like a Daimler Sovereign and there will always be a market for good, low mileage examples.
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