Fantasy Junction

Description

1954 Jaguar XK 120 SE Roadster
s/n S676089 Cylinder Block no. 3778-8S
Red with Black Leather Interior

Following World War II, the economically battered United Kingdom staggered back into the global industrial market by hurriedly rushing warmed over prewar cars into production. Thus, the entirely new and thoroughly modern XK 120 was a genuinely earth-shattering car, a truly contemporary and avant-garde car to boost the morale of Britons, and demonstrate to the world the resiliency of the United Kingdom. Introduced in 1948 as a concept car to showcase Jaguar`s remarkable new twin-cam inline-6 cylinder engine, the XK 120 was never intended to go into full scale production. However, its breathtaking, swoopy, and beautiful styling as well as its genuine 120 mph performance (not to mention the surprisingly affordable price) captured the imagination of the public, and the largely hand-built aluminum-bodied car was rushed into limited production. Jaguar was selling as many as they could make, so the car was reengineered as necessary to switch to mass production with steel bodies. Eventually coupe and drophead coupe (with a more completely lined top and wind-up windows) were added to the model line, but the roadster always remained the most beautiful and pure model.

Like all contemporary English cars, the XK 120 was continuously developed and refined, making the very latest examples the most sorted. This particular car is one such late car, identifiable by its curved handbrake handle, flat horn button, and flatter seats, which allow for more space for the occupants. This car has received a stunning and extremely comprehensive frame-off restoration in 2003-2004, and retains a freshly restored, show ready presentation. The quality of the work is extremely high and included the renewal of all necessary cosmetics and mechanicals, including the body, paint, glass, lights, rubber, complete interior, engine, suspension, brakes, and wiring harness. Since the restoration was completed additional work included a new stainless dual exhaust system, flex fan, new electronic fuel pump, a new and correct battery and voltage regulator, and new Vredestein radial tires. The engine compartment, trunk, and underside were refinished and detailed to show standards, and indeed, under the current and previous ownership periods the car scored 99.59 and 99.7 points at a Jaguar Club North America shows, in addition to winning “Best of Show” and in 2014, second place in the JCNA Southeastern Championship, despite radial tires and the louvered bonnet.

The exterior of the car is in beautiful show condition, with superb paint, preparation and panels. The gaps and fit are both excellent, and is no wear evident. The chrome is extremely fresh and outstanding throughout, including on the wheels and spinners. All glass and lights are excellent as well, and the car is fitted with Lucas tri-bar headlamps and Lucas accessory driving lamps. The bonnet was also extensively louvred in the style of contemporary competition variants.

The interior was completely redone as well, and is in show condition. The upholstery on the seats, door panels, and dashboard is like new, and the well-fitted carpets are unworn. The top was restored, including the frame, and the seat and top frames have been finished in the correct light green color. The door jambs are spotless and detailed. All switches and instruments were restored as well, and the odometer shows a bit over 3300 miles, which is the distance covered since the initial comprehensive restoration.

The trunk was comprehensively and correctly restored, with the correct liner and lamp to the inside of the lid, as well as the original factory air pump! The carpeting was redone, and the spare compartment and spare were also restored. The correct jack and knock-off hammer are also present.

The engine compartment was beautifully restored as well, and remains sparkling. The wiring, inner fenders, engine, ancillaries and hardware are all spotless and spectacular. The engine compartment is extremely correct, down to the braided covering on the wires.

The underside is similarly well-done. The frame and body are detailed, as are the engine, suspension, brakes, driveline, and exhaust. The exhaust system is a stainless system that sounds wonderful. Even the leather covers for the leaf springs have been replaced.

The car drives extremely well. The engine makes excellent, smooth power with great oil pressure. Fitted with a new exhaust, the straight six exhaust note of this car is a very special treat. The brakes are effective, and the suspension is tight. The transmission requires deliberate shifts, as is often the case with Moss boxes. Indeed, the driving experience is very much that of a new car.

This is an opportunity to acquire a superbly-restored show-ready example of this important and beautiful car. As is frequently the case with restored cars, it is available at significantly less than the cost of the restoration. Moreover, as a rare late car with more room, this particular car is even more desirable. Finally, this car comes with a host of difficult to find and valuable extras. In addition to the factory air pump, jack, and correct hammer, the car also comes with like new side windows, as well as a Brooklands windscreen, which can be easily installed in a matter of minutes. Also included is the original cylinder head which was replaced due to a minor crack in one of the exhaust ports. The replacement head is not a special equipment head. The car also comes with a shorter rearview mirror and aerodynamic cowl to further reduce drag, and a tonneau cover.

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