Highlights

Converted to a handsome open roadster by Longmate Vintage Restorations of Norfolk in the early '90s
Rare UK home market Special Equipment model with matching chassis and engine numbers
Heritage certificate and FIVA certificate holder, eligible for the Mille Miglia
In previous ownership from 1968 to 2021
Engine and gearbox rebuilt, with Stage 2 tuning producing circa 160 bhp
Offered with Green log book, owner's manual and a collection of invoices

The Appeal

The Jaguar XK120 is one of the most celebrated sports cars of the post-war era. When launched in 1948, it was the fastest production car in the world, and the Special Equipment specification - with its uprated engine, stiffer suspension and wire wheels - represented a highly sought-after iteration for the keen driver. UK home market examples in this specification are particularly scarce, as the majority found their way into the wealthier Americas.

This 1953 example, registered 'GVL 65', benefits from notable provenance, having been in the same hands from 1968 until 2021. It was converted from a fixed-head coupé to an open roadster configuration by Longmate Vintage Restorations of Norfolk in the early 1990s, which has lent it an incredibly handsome silhouette that's tastefully done. Since the current owner acquired the car, the engine and gearbox have been rebuilt with Stage 2 tuning, and matching chassis and engine numbers are confirmed by a Jaguar Heritage certificate. The car also holds a FIVA certificate, making it eligible for prestigious events such as the Mille Miglia.

Finished in Old English White over Black leather, this handsome car comes to us with bumpers deleted and aero screens fitted for a sportier look, though the original windscreen, bumpers and weather gear are all included in the sale. The vendor notes that it's a responsive, fast and charismatic car - not for the faint of heart!

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1953 in the United Kingdom
Purchased in 2021 from the previous long-term owners who had the car since 1968
Chassis number S669087 with matching engine number
MOT exempt
Extensively restored in the early 1990s by Longmate Vintage Restorations of Norfolk, including conversion from fixed-head coupé to open roadster configuration
Offered with Green log book, owner's manual and a collection of invoices
Heritage certificate and FIVA certificate included, making the car eligible for the Mille Miglia
83,459 miles displayed, which is believed to be correct but unwarranted

The Condition

Finished in Old English White with a Black leather interior
Resprayed in Old English White; wheels blasted and powder coated silver
Bumpers removed and aero screens fitted for a sportier appearance; original windscreen, bumpers and weather gear included with the car
The vendor describes the paintwork as being in very good condition with no notable marks or scratches
Interior described by the vendor as nicely aged with no marks or rips; all gauges and switches are reported to be working

It's clear that the car's conversion was an impressive bit of work. It suits the XK120's proportions perfectly, creating a sleek, sporty car that doesn't lose an ounce of its mid-century character. The bodywork is straight and well-presented, with clean lines and handsome Old English White paintwork. Everything looks in fine order, and the interior looks in handsome order, with only gentle patina to the leather upholstery.

The Mechanics

3,442cc DOHC straight-six engine
4-speed manual transmission
Engine and gearbox rebuilt since purchase in 2021; engine Stage 2 tuned and balanced, producing circa 160 bhp on the dyno
Electrics renewed and charging system converted to negative earth

Already a charismatic machine, this XK120 is tuned and balanced, delivering an impressive 160bhp on the Dyno. The engine bay is handsomely presented, and the vendor reports that the car is starting immediately and running very well, with top-notch performance. Mind, with the original drum brakes still present and correct, it's got plenty to excite the lucky driver.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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