Jaguar 420: £20k Restoration/5 Speed Gearbox
Launched at the 1966 London Motor Show the 420 represented the ultimate expression of Jaguar’s compact, sporting saloons. The car retained the legendary 4.2 straight six engine with independent live rear axle and, if specified, the manual/overdrive gearbox. Both public and press liked the car with excellent reviews and strong sales but after two years the XJ6 was introduced and production ceased. Just over 10,000 cars were manufactured, and today good examples are extremely rare and highly prized.
We often receive phone calls from owners of outstanding classics who appreciate the quality that we seek and do not want their privacy compromised. The ‘420’ was a local car that has not been on the market for years and, when the owner removed the dust cover from his pride and joy, we knew immediately that this was a ‘Milestones’ car.
That was a year ago and we were delighted to take the car back in part-exchange for our Triumph Stag from a repeat customer who will only buy his classics from Milestones.
The Jaguar was the subject of a no expense spared WATJAG Ltd restoration during 2014 costing in excess of £20,000. Today, eight years on, the car still looks outstanding – the true test of quality for any restoration. The large history file contains emails/worksheets detailing all the work completed and stage payments.
Once the car returned the owner opted for a TREMEC five speed gearbox upgrade and high ratio rear axle – the result, when linked to the power assisted steering and brakes is an utterly competent gentleman’s express that I would be happy to drive anywhere.
The interior of the car does not disappoint and was the subject of a high quality retrim before the restoration - seats, wood dash/trim, roof lining and carpets are excellent and the top-quality Tudor/Webasto sunroof makes this a superb summer cruiser.
Equally at home on long distance road trips across Europe, the Goodwood Revival car park or simply a run down to the local pub this car really ticks all the boxes and will not disappoint.
PRICE: £22,995