Jaguar XK140 FHC

Launched at the 1954 London Motor Show as the successor to the sensational XK120 which had appeared in 1948, the XK140 was broadly similar to the outgoing model but considerably more refined with a host of mechanical improvements.

Under the bonnet the XK140 retained Jaguar's well-proven 3.4-litre twin-cam six, which now produced 190bhp in standard trim thanks to higher-lift camshafts and revised porting – up 30bhp from the standard XK120 and now capable of 140mph (hence the name). A close-ratio gearbox enabled better use to be made of the increased performance, as did stiffer torsion bars on the front suspension and new telescopic shock absorbers to the rear. Steering was also improved with the adoption of the rack-and-pinion set up from the Le Mans-winning C-Type racer.

The superbly trimmed cabin was also notably roomier as the engine and bulkhead were now three inches further forward, a modification which also improved weight distribution and handling. External changes were limited to a wider radiator grille, rear lights incorporating flashing indicators, and larger bumpers front and rear. Three body styles were offered, fixed-head, roadster and drop-head. A total of 8,956 XK140s were made before it was replaced by the larger XK150 in 1957, of which just 738 were home market right-hand drive fixed-head coupes.

Among the first 50 right-hand drive fixed-heads produced, this particular car was first registered in Southampton in May 1955 and has been in the current family ownership since March 1964. At some point during the first decade of its life the car was apparently uprated for fast road or possibly competition use and it is said to benefit from an unusually fast engine with a C-Type head, 9:1 compression ratio, twin 2-inch H8 SU sandcast carburettors, a competition flywheel, uprated starter motor, uprated suspension, improved cooling and a low ratio back axle. Originally red, the car was resprayed in its current silver in the late 1960s.

In 1977 the engine and gearbox were removed from the car when first gear became difficult to engage and the clutch burned out. No attempt has since been made to rectify these faults and the car has remained partially dismantled and in storage for the last 34 years. Although the car still appears to be reasonably sound and straight with an eminently saveable red leather interior, it will now need substantial restoration before it can be returned to roadworthy condition. The engine and gearbox are included in the sale and appear to be the original units fitted to the car from new. The engine turns freely and a recent inspection with the sump off shows that all the bores appear to be in good condition.

Documentation includes the original buff log book plus a green continuation log book from 1977 which record all the keepers from new. There are also five old MOT certificates from 1972 to 1977 plus an owner’s manual and a Jaguar workshop manual. Original right-hand drive matching numbers XK140 coupes are now rare and sought after and this one looks a most worthwhile restoration project at the guide price suggested today.