During the war years, Jaguar’s Coventry factory turned out trailers and aircraft components; yet work continued by Sir William Lyons and his engineering staff on a new postwar engine. When peace returned, the designs were built and tested. After testing more than a half-dozen configurations, the modern XK powerplant evolved. Features included chain-driven twin overhead camshafts and a hefty crankshaft carrying seven oversize main bearings. The six-cylinder engine boasted an aluminum head and pistons along with steel connecting rods – output of this first engine was a healthy 160-hp at 5,200-rpm. The unit debuted in a slightly changed Mark V Jaguar of prewar design that helped generate cash flow while the new design for a new automobile was being finalized.

The XK 120 was originally nothing more than a holding place for the new engine. Just 200 were to have been built as the aluminum-bodied roadster was conceived as a low-volume sports car rather than a serious production vehicle. However, when the XK 120 made its debut at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1948, it created nothing short of a sensation in the automotive world.

The XK 120 offered a rare combination of astonishing speed, racecar handling, and the pleasure of driving a beautiful machine . . . all at a price of around $4,000; substantially less than other cars that couldn’t claim half its attributes. A total of 12,055 XK 120 roadsters, coupes, and drophead coupes were produced from 1948 to 1954 including 7,374 steel-bodied roadsters.

The elegant, curvaceous styling was the work of Sir William Lyons. The XK 120 got its name from the 120-mph top speed attained by prototypes including a top-speed run of 132.6-mph on the Jabbeke Highway in Belgium on May 30, 1949. Trend setting nearly 60 years ago, the car remains a milestone vehicle on either side of the Atlantic today.

Wearing a classic combination of British Racing Green over biscuit leather, this XK 120 is properly fitted with wheel discs and rear wheel spats. It benefits from a frame-off restoration over the last five years and the invoices and records from the restoration are included and available for inspection. The beautiful restoration features a gorgeous leather interior and is described as having great paint and chrome. This XK 120 is ready to show and tour at JCNA events.