Jaguar XK140 SE Roadster

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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 capable of 0-60 in 9 seconds with a top speed in excess of 120mph. 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, drop-head and roadster, the latter being the most attractive of all. A total of 8,951 XK140s were made before it was replaced by the larger XK150 in 1957, of which just 3,356 were roadsters, all but 74 of these in left-hand drive.

This particular Roadster was made in 1956 for the all-important American market which so dominated luxury British car production in the post-war decade. Remarkably it was owned by just one Kentucky-based family from 1962 until earlier this year and the vendor states that the 30,600 miles on the clock is believed to be genuine.

Imported back to the UK in July this year with all duties paid, it remains in exceptionally sound and original condition structurally thanks to over five decades of very light use in the benign climate of Kentucky where sub-zero temperatures are rare and the roads are never salted. The red interior has perhaps been partially retrimmed at some time as the seats are vinyl although the dashboard is leather (a popular option on export cars where the standard wooden dash would not last long in hotter climates, especially in a Roadster).

A desirable Special Equipment model (or MC as the SE was known in the States) with the ‘S’ engine number suffix, it thus benefits from the C-Type head which boosted power to 210bhp. Thicker torsion bars, a twin-exhaust system and wire wheels were also part of the MC package which cost an additional $295. It still retains its original chassis/engine combination making it a ‘matching numbers’ machine.

Since arrival in the UK it has been treated to a gentle recommissioning including a full brake overhaul with new cylinders, flexi pipes and master cylinder; a new fuel tank, fuel pump and sender; and an overhaul of the carburettors. Said to drive beautifully, it certainly went well when we were treated to a short test drive with a notably sweet gear-change and one of the smoothest, quietest XK engines we have experienced.

Although the black paintwork is now long past its best, the car is perfectly usable as is and could be easily improved over time as desired, or converted to right-hand drive if preferred using a kit of parts readily available from specialists. It comes with a hood and tonneau cover, both in good condition, plus a spare wheel, wheel-changing kit and original grease gun.

Documentation includes a US Certificate of Title, evidence to show that all duties have been paid and NOVA correspondence confirming the reference number as 16P765879. A Heritage Certificate has been applied for and should be with the car in time for the sale, as should a letter from a representative of the former Kentucky owners confirming that they owned it for over 50 years and that the indicated mileage is genuine.

With top examples of the XK140 Roadster now fetching in excess of £120k at auction, this low-mileage, exceptionally sound, matching numbers, Special Equipment model from long-term ownership, should amply reward the remedial works now required. One of William Lyons\' most beautiful designs, it will certainly turn heads wherever it goes and looks excellent value at the sensible guide price suggested.

AMENDMENT: Please note that the vendor advises that the steering on this car will need attention before it is used on the road.