Fantasy Junction

Description

1953 Jaguar XK 120 Roadster
s/n S673607, Cylinder Head no. W7536-8S
Red with Dark Tan 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 XK 120. 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 XK 120 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 particular XK 120 Roaster was purchased by the current long-term owner in Sunnyvale, California. Based on paperwork which came with his original purchase, the current owner believes he is very likely the second owner, and that the car was sold new in Fresno, California in British Racing Green and trimmed with red leather.

Shortly after his purchase, the current owner reports performing a restoration which included removing the entire driveline and engine for a comprehensive color change effort. The rear end was rebuilt by Tragalgar Spares in San Jose, California and a new axle was fitted to the driver’s side. Other work included the rebuild and brass re-sleeve of the master cylinder. The twin 6-volt batteries have been updated with a single 12-volt unit, still using the positive ground unit. Much more recently, the brake hydraulic system was rebuilt, as were the carburetors, according to the owner.

Body and paint work was carried out by GT Bodystyles also in San Jose, and the interior saw a high quality re-trim in wonderful shade of deep tan leather by Auto Dynamics in Santa Clara, California. New windscreen glass was installed as well.

Cosmetically speaking, the car is in keeping with good driver standards. There is no top included, although there are side curtains. The car is in good mechanical order, starts easily, and runs strong with good power, brakes, suspension, and steering.

This example has a matching numbers engine cylinder head, whereas the engine block has been replaced. While not a freshly restored car, this XK 120 Roadster has received mechanical work as necessary including brakes, tires and sorting as required. It is a nice solid example, ready for fare weather touring, as it does not have a top.

Included with the car are Jaguar tools, jack, the spare wire wheel and tire (possibly the original), a tonneau cover, and side windows. Please note that this example titled to an engine number.

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