Jaguar’s stunning XK120 was a massively important car for both the marque and post-war Britain. Upon its introduction, the XK120 was the fastest car in the world and arguably the most beautiful. As a result, it put Jaguar firmly back on the map. After the model’s debut at the 1948 Earl’s Court Motor Show, one journalist commented, “All perceived notions as to what was a series-production sports car disappeared overnight."

The fixed head coupe entered production in 1951 as the second of three XK120 models, and it boasted perhaps the highest level of practicality out of the three styles. The addition of a hardtop not only protected its occupants from the weather, but it also added even more voluptuous curves to the already shapely body. The coupe was aimed squarely at the export market, and it attempted to sway even more Americans towards buying a car from across the pond.

This Jaguar has recently undergone a meticulous two-and-a-half-year professional frame-up restoration. No detail has been ignored or overlooked, beginning with its near-flawless British Racing Green exterior. The chassis was stripped down to bare metal, and countless hours were spent detailing the suspension and engine components. The engine bay shines brightly with highly polished chrome and a new stainless steel exhaust system. All exterior chrome is either new or beautifully refinished. Finally, the interior has been fitted with a new and correct biscuit Connelly leather interior and proper Wilton carpets. The burled walnut dash is equally impressive and surely second to none.

This stunning XK120 retains all the details of a classic Jaguar, yet it has been upgraded with the appropriate modifications to make it safe and reliable for rallying and the demands of modern-day driving. It has been fitted with a Guy Broad pedal box, as well as a Tremec five-speed manual transmission and Wilwood front disc and rear drum brakes, for comfortable touring. Its Vredestein radial tires are fitted on new chrome wire wheels; an alloy radiator has been added for enhanced cooling; and new wiring, brake lines, and pads have been installed to ensure safe and care-free driving. The engine has been completely gone over and is equipped with a two-inch stainless steel polished exhaust, for extra performance. In addition, the fuel tank has been flushed, and the car has been comprehensively detailed in preparation for its new owner. Since completion, the car has only been driven test mileage to assure proper operation.

Included with the sale of the car is a full set of tools and an owner’s manual. For the purist, the original porcelain exhaust manifolds are also included. A Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate verifies that the car still retains its original body and engine block from when it was first delivered.