Fantasy Junction

Description

1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster

Chassis No. – 670636
Engine No. – W 1424-8
Exterior Color – Red
Interior Color – Black Leather
Engine – 3.4 Liter in-line six
Transmission – 4-speed manual


General History


The announcement of the Jaguar XK120 was nothing short of a revelation. Wartime austerity was finally lifting, and spirits were on the rise, despite slow economic recovery. With its stunning styling, sophisticated mechanical specification, and unapologetic performance, the XK120 delivered hope, vigor, and sporting excitement to a youthful population. The elegant and sporty XK120 not only boosted morale among the weary UK population, it demonstrated to the world that Britain had both the technical capacity and design excellence to deliver a beautiful performance car.


Although originally intended to be a concept car showcasing Jaguar’s remarkable new twin-cam inline 6-cylinder engine, the breathtaking styling and genuine 120 mph performance and affordable price, captured the imagination of the world. Sales were so strong that Jaguar had to reengineer the car for mass production to meet the robust demand. This effort not only improved output, it allowed Jaguar to expand their market share exporting to North America and other parts of the world. The XK120 set new standards of comfort, handling, and performance for British sports cars. Today this lineage and legacy lives on in restored examples which continue to be sought after by enthusiasts of these fine and elegant sports cars.

History of this Jaguar XK 120




According to the Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate accompanying this car, this left hand drive Open Two-Seater was built August 31, 1950, finished in Birch Grey with Biscuit and Red interior, and fitted with a French Grey soft top. The car was distributed through Hoffman Motors, New York, and dispatched to the selling dealer Geo J Lenz, Niagara Falls, NY on September 7, 1950.

Although information surrounding the early history is not known at this time, this Jaguar was owned by prior owners with enough foresight to retain the original engine. Additionally, under prior ownership this Jaguar was treated to a restoration including refinishing the paint in the current shade of red and upholstering the interior with black leather. Though records of restoration are not accompanying the car, prior owners indicate the interior was professionally trimmed at a cost of over $8,000. Improvements to the mechanical systems include upgraded 12-volt electronics, an electric cooling fan, and a set of new Firestone tires purchased and installed in 2026. The current owner has provided records of service dating back to 2020 including regular oil changes, installing a new master brake cylinder and new parking brake cable, and a new float installed in one of the carburetors.

Current Condition and Overview

Today, this sporty XK120 roadster displays driver level finishes, authentic construction, and vivid color. The paint is generally nice overall with glossy, smooth coverage and sound panel gaps with good closures and latching. Paint chips are noted at the forward edge of the hood and trunk lid and other typical spots due to road use. The color combination is highlighted by silver finished disc wheels and chrome hubcaps and new Firestone Deluxe Champion 6.00-16 tires installed in 2026. The chrome is in good condition with good luster though showing evidence of age and minor pitting on some of the castings. The windscreen and windshield chrome frame are also in good condition, while the tan convertible top and side curtains are complete, however will need some adjustment to the top armature for proper fit.

Inside the cockpit, the black leather interior is quite nice, having been reupholstered under prior ownership. Materials and finishes are tidy with good seam and stitch lines, slightly softened padding, and a matching black dashboard. The instrumentation is in very good condition though one gauge material perimeter has separated from the gauge bezel. A correctly finished black original type steering wheel is in place, and other interior details are consistent with correct details for this era including proper fitting black carpet. Formerly using dual 6 volt batteries, this Jaguar has been converted to a 12 volt system, but the battery is not currently nesting in the factory battery tray. The trunk is clean and generally correct but has not been refinished to the same level as the interior.

Lifting the hood, the engine compartment is clean and correctly finished overall as is the original matching numbers engine, dual-overhead camshaft head, and generally correct components and finishes. A modern electric fan is mounted on the front surface of the radiator. The undercarriage remains clean and correct and appears to be original based on the condition of the finishes. There is no evidence of structural damage or compromise to the floors or suspension components. An electric fuel pump is installed for improved fuel delivery.

The car runs, starts, stops, and drives, however, an engine knock is present and has been noted in service invoices along with a differential pinion leak, and the lower radiator tank which is likely to need rebuilding in the near future. The open coachwork, low seating position, and handsome interior contribute to the sporting characteristics which continue to impress collectors, enthusiasts, and new generations of drivers particularly for those with mechanical skills to manage some of the items that will need attention.

This is a wonderful opportunity to acquire a matching numbers Jaguar XK120 roadster, ready for additional mechanical sorting but drivable as is. As one of the most beautifully designed cars of the 20th century, this XK120 offers the next owner a rare opportunity to own one of the most iconic sports cars ever built.

Included with this Jaguar

This Jaguar is accompanied by a convertible top with top irons, side curtains, a side curtain case, a pair of Moss seatbelts wrapped in plastic, service records dating back to 2020, and a copy of the Jaguar Heritage Certificate.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608