Jaguar XK120 Roadster

History

Jaguar's first post-war sports car, the XK120 roadster was conceived and designed in a matter of months, primarily to act as a showcase for the marque's new XK engine. Shown at the 1948 Earls Court Motorshow, it caused such a sensation that William Lyons was forced to put it into production right away. The first cars had handbuilt aluminium bodies on an ash frame, but by 1950 a more mass production version with a pressed steel body with alloy doors, bonnet and boot had been developed. A fixed head version was launched in 1951, followed by a drop head in 1953. Just 12,780 were produced in total, of which 7,631 were roadsters.

Power came from the now legendary XK twin-overhead cam 3.4-litre straight-six engine, developing 160bhp and giving the car a genuine 120mph top speed, making it the fastest production car of its day – hence the XK120 name. In 1952 Stirling Moss and three other drivers famously drove a virtually standard XK120 around the banked track at Montlhery for seven days and nights on end, clocking up an average speed of 100.31mph before driving the car back to London with no problems whatsoever.

This 1953 roadster was fully restored in the early 1990s and is still said to be in excellent condition throughout. It certainly looks stunning in the lovely combination of metallic silver paintwork with a red leather interior. The car had a complete engine rebuild by renowned Jaguar specialists JD Classics just 3,000 miles ago at a cost of £10,893 with photos to show the work being carried out.

At the same time the front and rear suspension was detailed and painted. A new mohair hood, side screens and tonneau have also recently been fitted. Other additions include a Kenlowe fan to help with modern traffic conditions, a full stainless steel exhaust system and five new Avon Turbosteel tyres. The car has been regularly serviced and looked after by JD Classics since 1997 with many receipts in the history folder. Due to have a fresh MOT and tax before the sale, it is ready to jump into and enjoy.