Fantasy Junction

Description

Jaguar XK120 Roadster
Chassis # 672973, engine no. W6128-8
British Racing Green with Parchment Leather

Told by the post-war government to `export or die` the British motor industry responded valiantly none more so than Jaguar Cars, soon to become the UK`s biggest US-dollar earner thanks no small measure to the success of its sensational XK120 sports car. Delays in the gestation of its MkV11 saloon led to Jaguar exploring and alternative method of bringing the new XK 3.4 litre six-cylinder engine to public attention. The result was the fabulous XK120. Launched at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the stunning-looking roadster caused a sensation. Conceived as a low-volume model, the XK120 proved considerably more popular than expected, with the result that the expensive-to-produce, ahs-framed alloy coachwork was replaced by steel after 240 cars had been completed, though the bonnet, doors, and boot lid remain aluminum.

The car`s heart was, of course, the fabulous XK engine. Conceived in wartime, the 3.4 litre `six` embodied the best of modern design, boasting twin overhead camshafts running in an aluminum-alloy cylinder head, seven main bearings and a maximum output of 160bhp. When installed in the lightweight XK120, the result was a car with a phenomenal power-to-weight ratio and blistering performance. The `120` referred to the car`s top speed, any doubts about the claims veracity being swiftly banished when a standard XK120 achieve a top speed of 126.4 mph with hood and side screens erected and 132.6 mph minus its weather protection and equipped with an under tray. The XK120 set new standard of comfort, road holding and performance for British sports car and, in keeping with the Jaguar tradition, there was nothing to touch it at the price.

Although it had not been designed with racing in mind, the XK120`s competition potential was immediately obvious, not least to the factory, which entered a three-car team in the Daily Express one-hour race for standard production cars a Silverstone in August 1949. The XK`s if Leslie Johnson and Peter Walker duly rewarded Jaguar`s faith in its new sports car by finishing first and second respectively, thus setting the scene for an illustrious competition career that would culminate in the development of the legendary C-Type.

Supplied new in the USA, this matching-numbers XK120 was treated to a full `body off frame` restoration to the highest standards during 2003-2004 and has covered a mere 492 miles since completion. Finished in classic British Racing Green with parchment (old biscuit) leather interior complemented by black quality canvas hood and matching side curtain, this car is ready to participate in any vintage tour event or win at any show. The car is reported as totally stock but with an added 30 horsepower on tap courtesy of improvements made during the engine rebuild. Body sheet metal is straight with regulation gaps, while other noteworthy features include `tri-bar` headlights and Lucas 7.5`` driving lights. This is as good as a restoration gets and as great a handling classic Jaguar as you would ever want to drive. The very best available in the most desired color, the car is offered with partial service history and certificate of title.

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.

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