Still displaying the benefits of a quality restoration conducted in the mid-2000s, this beautiful XK 140 is a particularly fetching example of Coventry’s classic postwar Drophead Coupe. According to a JDHT certificate, chassis number 819005 completed assembly in early October 1956, finished in Pastel Blue paint and trimmed with a red interior. Dispatched from the factory nine days later, the XK was distributed to Jaguar Cars New York for retail.

By the early 2000s the Jaguar was owned by Bill Ross of Alamo, California, and he set about a comprehensive restoration that took nearly two years to complete. Primarily conducted by KATS British Car Service of Englewood, Colorado, the refurbishment included a rebuild of the cylinder head, brakes, and radiator. The exhaust manifold was properly recoated in porcelain, and the engine, gearbox, and differential were resealed. The shock absorbers, wiring harness, and electrical components were replaced as needed, while a stainless steel exhaust system was installed. New seals and soft parts were fitted, and the windshield and brightwork trim were replaced.

The body was media blasted and refinished in handsome Pacific Blue paint, while the interior was reupholstered with tan leather and complementary dark blue carpeting. This was supplemented with a new wood dashboard and door sill trim finished in clear coat and polished to perfection. The top assembly was updated with new wood bows, and a new soft top was sewn from dark blue canvas and surrounded with correct pin beading. All contributes to an elegant color combination that presents beautifully. New wire wheels shod with Vredenstein Sprint Classic tires completed the meticulous restoration, while the addition of seatbelts enhances the Jaguar’s safety, making it a prime candidate for touring and driving events. Completed by late 2006, the refurbishment is documented with invoices on file.

With stampings consistent with its accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, this XK 140 retains its matching-numbers engine and cylinder head; it is offered with a tool roll, owner’s manual, and spare wire wheel. With its comfortable leather seats, roll-up windows, and all-weather convertible top, this Jaguar would make an ideal entrant on tours like the Copperstate 1000 or California Mille. The car’s beautiful cosmetic finish also assures that it would present very well at local concours d’elegance and marque club gatherings. It offers its next caretaker a brilliant experience in British open-air motoring, sure to distinguish any Jaguar collection or gathering of postwar roadsters.