Daimler DS420
The stately choice of monarchs, heads of state, and the British Royal Family.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.2 s
- Top speed
- 110 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$45k
About the Daimler DS420
The Daimler DS420 was the definitive British state limousine for over two decades, succeeding both the Daimler Majestic Major and the Vanden Plas Princess. Built on a significantly extended Jaguar 420G floorpan, it utilised the legendary 4.2-litre XK engine, which remained in production for this model long after it had been phased out elsewhere. Its 'semi-razor edge' styling and vast interior made it a staple of royal fleets, including those of Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother. While its underpinnings were shared with Jaguar saloons, the DS420 was hand-finished at Vanden Plas until 1979 and later at a dedicated shop in Browns Lane.
Daimler DS420 specs
The Daimler DS420 produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 309 Nm (228 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.2 seconds and has a top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h).
| Make | Daimler |
|---|---|
| Model | DS420 |
| Trim | 4.2 |
| Years | 1968–1992 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Limousine |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 5,044 built |
| Engine | 4.2-litre Jaguar XK inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,235 cc (4.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 165 bhp (123 kW) at 4,250 rpm |
| Torque | 309 Nm (228 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.2 s |
| Top speed | 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,133 kg (4,702 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 77 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Daimler DS420 worth?
A typical Daimler DS420 is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $45,000 (about £4,800 – £34,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Daimler DS420 rarity in CarSpot
The Daimler DS420 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Daimler DS420 fun facts
- The DS420 was the last production car to be fitted with the historic Jaguar XK engine, which first debuted in 1948.
- No other limousine model has been delivered to more reigning monarchs, serving the royal houses of the UK, Denmark, Sweden, and Luxembourg.
- The car features twin 10-gallon fuel tanks, one in each rear wing, with a dashboard switch to select which tank the engine draws from.