£5,000
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1977 Daimler Sovereign Series II 4.2 LWB
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Highlights
- Long wheelbase model
- Resprayed around five years ago
- Renewed cooling system
The Appeal
Sir William Lyons proclaimed the Jaguar XJ Series I as “The finest Jaguar ever” and the Series II, launched in 1973, built on the strengths of its predecessor. As before, a more upmarket version was offered named the Daimler Sovereign, which incorporated a fluted grille top and boot handle, together with a plusher interior.
The 4.2 Sovereign featured Jaguar’s renowned straight six which was mated to a three speed automatic gearbox for an overall package that continued the ‘grace, space and pace’ ethos established by Sir William in the 50’s to define the Jaguar brand.
This example was built in 1977, by which time Jaguar was only offering the long wheelbase version incorporating an extra 4 inches of rear legroom. As such, it’s a fabulous way for four people to travel. The new owner will benefit from some significant expenditure in recent years and, although there are a few items which should be addressed to bring it back to its absolute best, it remains a compelling proposition.
History and Paperwork
- Manufactured 1977
- V5 in owner’s name
- Receipts for recent work from Jaguar specialist Classic Engineering, including new head gasket, re-cored radiator and new expansion tank
- Various receipts from other work and parts back to 2017
- Service manual
- MOT and tax exempt
The Interior
- Presents well and could be enjoyed as-is or used as a good basis for a high standard of refurbishment
- Beiger leather seats, nicely patinated throughout
- Some minor marks and nicks to the leather
- Carpet a little worn in places
- Wood veneer dashboard generally in good condition
- A few chips to the edge of the glovebox lid
- Period Sharp radio
- Tidy carpeted boot
- In all, it’s a fine display of seventies opulence which has worn very well
The Exterior
- Regency Red paintwork which was refreshed around five years ago
- In general, the bodywork presents very well with a couple of blemishes as would be expected
- The nearside sill has been repainted but will need further attention
- Save for some minor pitting, the chrome trim looks to be in good condition
- The wheels are in good order and have Daimler chromed hub caps
- Overall, there are a few minor niggles but it retains much of its original grace
The Mechanics
- 4.2 litre straight six engine
- Automatic transmission
- The owner tells us that the car runs very well and that, thanks to a manual choke conversion and renewed cooling system, it has “bullet proof” cooling even on the warmest of days
- Although showing good oil pressure at over 40psi, the engine is burning some oil, evidenced by a smoky note from the exhaust, which will need some attention
- That aside, the seller describes the driving experience as the very definition of the word ‘waft’
Summary
A beautiful classic that has all the essential characteristics of a really nice XJ. With some attention to the oil consumption, it doubtless has years of wafting ahead of it and, while there are a few areas that would benefit from some cosmetic attention, it could readily be enjoyed in the meantime.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1977
- Make Daimler
- Model Sovereign
- Colour Regency Red
- Odometer 77,207 Miles
- Engine size 4235
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Edmonton
- Location London
- Country United Kingdom
The Gallery
