3,442 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with transverse wishbones, elongated torsion bars and anti-roll bar, rigid rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 102"

• Matching numbers engine

• Complete with a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate

While the XK120 roadster was an unintended showstopper at its 1948 introduction at Earls Court, Jaguar quickly broadened its appeal with a fixed-head coupe (FHC) in 1951, combining the roadster’s performance with a flowing roofline, roll-up windows and richly veneered interior trim. At once, the FHC was similar to, yet almost diametrically opposed to, the elemental roadster.

Bridging the two extremes, the elegant and luxurious drophead coupe (DHC) followed in 1953. Combining the open-air allure of the roadster with the luxury of the FHC, the DHC featured a carefully tailored and lined top, a genuine wool headliner and roll-up windows, providing true weather protection. Just 1,769 XK120 drophead coupes were produced before production shifted to the XK140, making them the most rare of all XK120s, aside from the very first and limited run of alloy-bodied roadsters.

Manufactured on August 14, 1953, the 1954 Jaguar XK120 Drophead Coupe offered here is a very desirable original US-delivery, left-hand drive variant with its matching numbers, XK DOHC ‘six’ and wire-spoke wheels. Finished in Pastel Green as original and trimmed with dark green hides, it benefits from an older, professional restoration and is fitted with grey Wilton wool carpeting, a black convertible top with a matching boot, tan headliner and an accessory wood-rimmed steering wheel.

The car presents very nicely, and the restoration has aged quite well, with the leather upholstery showing a light patina and some signs of slight use, with no rips or tears present. Similarly, the wooden dash remains nice, as does the brightwork. Close examination reveals occasional cosmetic imperfections but nothing detrimental for regular driving enjoyment. Honestly presented, quite rare when new, retaining its matching-numbers engine and complete with a spare wheel and tire as well as a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, this final-year XK120 FHC fulfills all important criteria with a lovely color to boot.