In 1948, the XK series of sports cars was unveiled, the first sports cars offered by Jaguar since the SS 100. The first of the series, the XK 120, served as the testbed for the legendary C-Type and, later, the D-Type. The XK 120s were spartan, unbelievably quick, and purpose built to turn the fastest possible laps. The road-going models were significantly faster and handled better than just about anything else on the road but, like many sports cars, lacked in overall interior room and comfort. These concerns were rectified with the XK 140.

Combining the superb 3,442-cc DOHC six-cylinder engine with the storied XK chassis and suspension, the XK 140 was, and is, a great performer. The performance is even better for cars with the MC designation such as the example offered here. This high-performance package gave the XK 140 a free-flowing competition-bred cylinder head, crankshaft damper, dual exhaust, twin fog lamps, and windshield washers. The MC package added $295 to the manufacturer’s price; a superb value on a comfortably appointed car which could go from 0–60 mph in just over eight seconds and offered a top speed in excess of 120 mph. The 140, especially the MC variant (as it was called in North America), was an improvement over the XK 120 in every measurable category.

This XK 140 MC was dispatched on 19 August 1955 to James L. Cooke Motors in Toronto, Canada. It was originally finished in Cream over a Red interior with a black top. It has subsequently been fully restored and is presented in the timeless and stunning combination of British Racing Green over tan leather upholstery. To make the car even more enjoyable in modern traffic, a Borg Warner five-speed transmission has been installed in place of the original four-speed non-synchro Moss gearbox. A brake booster has also been fitted to maximize the braking power provided by the four-wheel drum brakes.

The XK 140 MC offers a rare glimpse of the height of motoring technology in the mid-1950s, considered by many enthusiasts to be the most exciting period for international road racing. This car, absolutely exceptional in all respects, is an ideal choice for either a casual Sunday drive or for its original purpose, spirited touring.