During the historic postwar years; the Jaguar XK 120 helped re-establish the marque as one of the world leaders in sports car production and reputation. The “120” designation of the car was reflective of its proclaimed top speed. Soon following the model’s debut at the 1948 Earl’s Court Motor Show; the appropriateness of the label was underlined in 1949 when a factory-prepared example attained 132-mph at Jabbeke in Belgium. Powered by a 3.4-liter, inline six-cylinder with 160 horsepower, the XK 120 carried the first high-volume twin-cam engine.

The sensational two-seater had been designed by Jaguar’s talented chairman, William Lyons; the dual overhead cam engine powering the XK 120 was also considered to be a work of art in itself. The allure of the Jaguar was overpowering; this exceptional model is widely regarded as displaying one of the most markedly stunning bodies ever designed.

Upon its introduction, the XK 120 was the fastest car in the world. The fixed head coupe entered production in 1951 as the second of three XK 120 models, and exhibited the highest level of practicality out of the three styles. The addition of a hardtop not only sheltered its occupants from the conditions, but it also added even more flowing lines to the already well-formed body. Only 2,679 Fixed Head Coupes were produced out of 12,078 units manufactured during the XK 120’s production run from 1949 to 1954.

This 1953 Jaguar XK 120 Fixed Head Coupe (FHC) is presented in Imperial Maroon and is a well-preserved car with original black interior and impeccable style. The original black seats look extremely well for their age and have no rips or tears. The interior is pristine with original door panels and dashboard showing only slight signs of wear, while the original Smith gauges are reported to show no discoloration and are in “perfect condition.” The paint is showing well, but demonstrates patina in the rear section of the car. The odometer shows the mileage at 95,233 and is shown as “actual” on the title. The original equipment steering wheel is also in excellent condition.

This car has been in a private collection in Ohio for the last 10 years; beforehand it was purchased from Northshore Sports Cars in Lake Bluff Illinois. This 1953 XK 120 has been carefully stored and well maintained. Recently, the XK 120 was refreshed with loving care with attention to the bodywork, trim and brightwork. This Jaguar is ready to be deservedly toured and shared with other enthusiasts. The current owner believes that it will make a fine addition to any home's coach house or collection.

The Jaguar’s front and rear bumpers have an excellent fit and finish that shows well. The headlights and taillights are stated to be in ideal condition with no hazing, fogging or cracks. The original equipment knock-off wire wheels are displayed in a very nice manner and the original spare tire is also included in the boot; all have white sidewalls. All windows are free of yellowing and show minimal wear (with the exception of a tiny chip on the bottom corner of the windshield). The original Jaguar insignia is still intact in the front windshield and is in excellent condition. This 1953 XK 120 also has foglights and radio, plus the original toolkit, hammer and service manual included. The Jaguar also has a rare-to-find factory grease gun; this one is stated as being in “wonderful condition.”

The engine bay is “a work of art” with the 3.4-liter dual overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine matched to a manual transmission. Nearby, the original VIN plate with corresponding numbers, including original body #J3047 is seen. This is an exceptional Jaguar XK 120 that is further reported to “run and sound fantastic.” This XK 120 offers a truly a rare opportunity to acquire a well-preserved example with many original traits.