A Jaguar 420 fan

Sir,

Being a Jaguar 420 owner, and a regular reader of your fine magazine, I noticed last month’s letter referring to this particular Jaguar, and would like to add my own experiences.

The car is a 1968, manual/overdrive, non-power steering model which I purchased about two-and-a-half years ago for £ 400 approximately. During that time I have put in new pistons, rings, and big ends (to cure an oil consumption of 33 m.p.p.). I have also replaced all six shockabsorbers and the brake master cylinder.

The only extras I have added are a set of log lights, front, and rear, and electronic ignition (Lumenition). The ignition system gives an extra one to one-and-a-half m.p.g. and ensures perfect firing right up to 5,500 r.p.m., as well as instant starting.

The car is superb to drive, fast, quiet, and reliable: top speed around 125 m.p.h., 0-100 approx. 26 seconds, and overall fuel consumption of 18 1/2 m.p.g. Any extended journey (using all available power) will often return 21.5 m.p.g.

I freely admit to being totally infatuated with the Jaguar marque, having learnt to drive on a Mk. VII (M), and subsequently driven my father’s Mk. IX, Mk. X 3.8, and his current 420G: and previously having owned a 3.4 ‘S’-type. I would recommend this sort of car to anyone who is interested in a classic, satisfying, and enjoyable vehicle.

Louth, Lincs. R. G. Jenkinson