1981 Daimler Sovereign 4.2

Lot details
Registration No: PRC329W
Chassis No: DCALP3CC320300
Mot Expiry: May 2010

Visually updated by Pininfarina with a new 'glasshouse' and sharper, more a la mode sheetmetal, the Series III Daimler Sovereign was launched in March 1979. Retaining its predecessor's all round independent coil-sprung suspension, disc brakes and power assisted rack and pinion steering, it was credited with a class leading ride / handling balance. Only available with Coventry's renowned 4.2 litre XK DOHC straight-six engine under the bonnet, the vast majority were specified with Borg Warner's smooth-shifting Model 66 automatic gearbox. Benefiting from the adoption of fuel-injection, the large capacity powerplant delivered improved economy as well as suitably authoritative performance.

H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "This particular example, 'PRC 329W' is displayed with its original Damson paintwork and Russet leather trim; Jaguar / Daimler using the same livery at that year's Earls Court Motor Show to promote its 'all leather and wood' car. Supplied new to a Buxton businessman during April 1981, the Sovereign remained in his keeping for twenty-five years commuting eight miles a day to his office until 1995 when he retired and the vehicle was stored. The saloon was obtained by the current owner in October 2006 with an odometer reading of 15,782 miles and was recommissioned then subjected to a VOSA inspection verifying the authenticity of engine and chassis numbers and history. The bodywork remains original such as the age of the vehicle suggests. Few cars can claim to be as original with standard and many optional extras incorporating electric rise / fall driver and passenger seats, air conditioning (re-gassed 2007), electric window lifts to all doors, Philips turnlock radio / cassette system and attaché style tool case to the luggage compartment. The XK engine performs well coupled to a smooth changing automatic gearbox. Offered with a current MOT test certificate until May 2010 the car is now displaying a mileage of 17,434 as will be experienced by the new keeper".