Lot 120

Salon Privé

1953 Jaguar XK120 SE Roadster

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£58,800 GBP | Sold

United Kingdom | United Kingdom

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Chassis No.
S674247
Addendum: Please note that during the replacement of this chassis plate an error was made in the numbering. The correct number is S674220.

3,442 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent torsion bar front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102"

- Iconic British sports car, Mille Miglia eligible

- Matching-numbers SE engine

- Fresh, ground-up restoration

Jaguar’s XK120 stole the show at the October 1948 International Motor Exhibition at London’s Earl’s Court. It literally redefined the term “British sports car,” transforming the image from an angular, open-wing car to a smooth-envelope, streamlined and sexy roadster. The modern looks of the XK120 were matched by the engineering under its skin. A sturdy box-section chassis featured torsion bar independent front suspension, and the live rear axle rode on long semi-elliptic leaf springs. Brakes were Lockheed hydraulic drum units, with twin leading shoes and a generous 12-inch diameter. The heart and soul of the new car was a 3,442 cc dual-overhead-cam six. Twin SU H6 carburettors enabled 160 bhp at 5,200 rpm. Output was increased significantly with the optional SE “Special Equipment,” which included wire wheels, a C-Type cylinder head and other performance enhancements.

The beneficiary of a ground-up restoration completed last year, this left-hand drive XK120 roadster presents extremely well in period-correct British Racing Green with tan interior. The weather gear is furnished in black, all correct and fitting very well. It rides on a set of new chromed wire wheels and Michelin 185 x 16 tyres.

First registered on 1st June 1953, the car has the correct matching-numbers SE engine and has been restored with unusual attention to originality. A discreet battery cut-out switch and electronic ignition are the only significant deviations from the as-delivered configuration. The car is an absolute joy to drive, delivering a wonderful exhaust note. Since restoration it has covered 300 trouble-free miles in Holland and Belgium. Prepared to an exceptional standard, it is particularly well detailed and equally well sorted. It is ready for any serious motoring challenge, be it touring, a regularity run or the famous thousand-mile rallies around the world, including of course the Mille Miglia. It will be supplied with new UK registration, having come from ownership and registration in Holland.