Lot 230: Daimler Sovereign Vanden Plas 4.2-Litre Saloon

Outwardly distinguishable from its Coventry sibling only by the marque's traditional fluted radiator grille and different badging, the Daimler Sovereign that appeared a year after the Jaguar XJ6's launch was in effect a top-of-the-range model, with most optional extras incorporated as standard. The XJ6 had been launched to much acclaim in 1968, refining concepts embodied by previous Jaguar saloons to create a car rivalling the best offered by Mercedes-Benz. The six-cylinder XK engine was available in either 2.8-litre or 4.2-litre forms initially, the latter capable of propelling Jaguar's - and Daimler's - luxuriously appointed flagship to a top speed of 120mph-plus. 'In its behaviour it gets closer to perfection than any other luxury car we have tested, regardless of price,' was Motor magazine's summation of the Coventry firm's new flagship. A longer - by 4" - wheelbase version was introduced in August 1972, becoming the standard bodyshell when the models were upgraded to Series II specification the following year. With its restyled cabin, courtesy of Pininfarina, the Series III of 1979 was readily distinguishable from the Series I/II, while beneath the skin the 4.2-litre engine gained Bosch electronic fuel injection for improved economy. The name of the famous coachbuilder, Vanden Plas, was applied to the sumptuously equipped top-of-the-range Daimlers. Family owned for more than 20 years, this Daimler Sovereign Vanden Plas comes with a comprehensive service history backing up the odometer reading of circa 64,000 miles. The car is finished in Silver Sand with Cinnamon leather interior, its body and paintwork being reported as in good condition, the panelling straight, upholstery supple, and interior trim and carpets very good. Benefiting from a recent service, together with an overhaul of the brakes and steering, 'UFK 100X' is offered with road fund licence to September 2009, MoT to February 2010 and Swansea V5 registration document.