1968 Jaguar 420

A wonderfully usable example of Jaguar’s compact sporting saloon, this 1968 Jaguar 420 has been with its current owner for an extraordinary 50 years. Finished in a rich deep red, the Jaguar underwent a bare-metal respray as part of its restoration approximately 35 years ago. Considering the age of the paintwork, it continues to present well and retains a pleasing depth and shine. Naturally, there are some age-related marks and imperfections to be found on closer inspection. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint. The bodywork presents well overall following the restoration carried out approximately 35 years ago. The panels retain the 420's elegant lines and appear smart for their age. There are a couple of small dinks around the body, along with the sort of minor imperfections expected from a classic that has been enjoyed since its restoration. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves. The traditional wood-veneered dashboard remains one of the highlights of the 420's cabin, housing the Smiths instrumentation and period switchgear. There is some age-related wear and deterioration to the wood finish, but the overall presentation retains plenty of originality and character. We have been advised that the temperature gauge is currently not working. Out on the road, the 420 drives beautifully. The straight-six feels smooth and willing, the steering provides a reassuring feel and the car remains comfortable and composed at a relaxed pace. One point to note: at the end of the test drive, the engine revs stayed at around 2,000-2,500 rpm. The seller believes this may be a throttle linkage / carb issue that may require servicing. Please note that in the video, Mike states the car has covered 1,500-2,000 miles since the 1990s restoration. He meant to say 15,000-20,000. Having covered approximately 4,000 miles since November 2005, this is a Jaguar that has continued to be exercised and enjoyed while seeing relatively light use. The extensive chrome work is an important part of the 420's appearance, from the large front grille and bumpers through to the window surrounds, door furniture and Jaguar bonnet mascot. The brightwork presents attractively overall, with some signs of age, while the glass appears in keeping with the car's well-preserved but regularly enjoyed presentation. Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself. The car sits on a set of chrome wire wheels which complement the deep red paintwork particularly well. A matching fifth wire wheel is also included in the boot, together with the jack and hammer. The wheels present well overall, with some age-related wear visible on closer inspection. Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old. The Jaguar retains its original light-coloured interior, giving the cabin plenty of period character. The seats are beginning to show their age, with visible creasing, wear, and discolouration in places, particularly across the front seats. The carpets similarly show signs of age and use. Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself. The Jaguar’s straight-six engine was rebuilt as part of the restoration carried out approximately 35 years ago. Today, Mike reports that the engine remains strong, running smoothly and sounding particularly good with no concerning noises noted. The automatic gearbox complements the 420’s relaxed character well, providing the effortless driving experience expected from a classic Jaguar sporting saloon. The electrical equipment presents largely in keeping with the age and originality of the car. One known issue is the temperature gauge, which is not currently working, and will require investigation by the next owner. The car showed no signs of overheating during our drive on a very hot day. The brake fluid level sender unit works only intermittently, and has therefore been disconnected. This does not affect braking performance and only provides a signal for low brake fluid levels. Aside from this, no other specific electrical faults have been highlighted to us. The history includes the original service book, providing an important link back to the Jaguar’s earlier years, alongside an impressive collection of period tax discs accumulated over its lifetime. The car was also comprehensively restored around 35 years ago, including a bare-metal respray and engine rebuild, while its MOT records show approximately 4,000 miles have been covered since November 2005. Together, the documentation and remarkable long-term ownership help tell the story of a Jaguar that has remained part of the same family for half a century. We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check. We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming. If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. The suspension provides the comfortable and composed ride for which these Jaguars are known, with no particular issues highlighted during our time with the car. Disc brakes are fitted all round and perform well, providing reassuring stopping power and complementing the car’s grand touring nature. The large, thin-rimmed steering wheel remains in place and suits the Jaguar's wonderfully traditional driving position. Mike reports that the steering feels good when out on the road. The automatic transmission is operated through the column-mounted selector, keeping the front of the cabin uncluttered and adding to the distinctly 1960s feel of the car.