1953 Jaguar XK120 SE FHC (LHD)

Highlights

  • Previously restored
  • Gorgeous exterior
  • Performs fantastically
  • Desirable fixed head coupe design
  • Just 1 owner since registration in the UK


The Appeal

The XK120 is without a doubt one of the most desirable British classics, known for its beautiful styling, and impressive performance. 

The fixed head coupe XK120 is arguably the classiest of the lineup, and is also one of the rarest variants produced, with only around 2600 original units recorded. 
This particular example stands out from the crowd, boasting thorough restoration work, a respray, and caring ownership following its return to the UK. 

The car also performs without fault, presenting buyers with the rare opportunity to own a genuinely superb example of the elusive XK120 FHC. 

The History and Paperwork

  • Previously restored
  • Just one registered UK keeper in total
  • Imported from New York
  • Well cared for as part of a collection
Upon returning to the UK shores in 2018, it was decided that this LHD XK120 deserved far more attention than initially planned. 

Not one to half-cook a job, the current keeper ensured the vehicle was extensively restored, courtesy of renowned specialist; Heritage Classics of Teeside. Since being restored, the vehicle has hardly covered any miles and now yearns to be enjoyed by the lucky new owner. 

All details of the restoration can be found in the included photographs and invoices, which detail new parts, and work carried out. 

Also included within the paperwork, are the V5C document, import/registration documentation, and the Jaguar heritage certificate, which helps verify the vehicle’s history. 

The Interior

  • Original seats
  • Wooden dashboard, and trim pieces
  • Black carpeting throughout
  • Excellent condition
Although the vehicle was given a very thorough restoration, the current owner decided to retain the original seats, and as many original components as possible. 

Not looking to strip this coupe of any charm and history, keeping the original seats proved to be quite a welcome decision.
As the seats are of course rather old now, the leather does show signs of age and use, particularly in the form of a tear on the driver’s seat. Despite the shown defects, retaining the original seats certainly helps this Jaguar feel all the more authentic and characterful.
Otherwise, the interior shows absolutely minimal signs of use, with clean carpeting, clean headlining, door cards, and a sleek wooden dashboard, adorned with the classic Smiths instruments. 

All instruments and controls within the vehicle are believed to be in full working order, and show minimal wear to contact points. 
Inside the boot, you’ll find the spare wheel, original jack, tools for adjusting the wheel spinners, along with the tool belt. 

The Exterior

  • Freshly resprayed
  • Wire spoke wheels
  • Superb condition
  • Gorgeous fixed head body lines
Whilst it is of course subject to personal taste, nothing can deny the elegance of the FHC XK120’s body lines. 

The fixed roof gives the Jaguar a very sleek, retro style that simply can’t be matched by any of its rivals. Benefitting from a thorough restoration and fresh respray, this example of course does Jaguar proudly. 

Other than a couple of incredibly minor defects as pictured, the fresh red paintwork looks absolutely superb, and can hardly be faulted for how it presents itself today. 

Although this Jaguar is in full working order and will gladly power along, the exterior of this example warrants the prime spot at a classic car show or private collection. 
Accompanying the striking red paintwork are plenty of re-chromed components and tidy trim pieces, all of which are in excellent condition and certainly don’t detract from the red paintwork. 

Glasswork around the car also looks excellent, with the exception of the front windscreen which shows an ever so slight mark as pictured. 
The car sits on its set of classy wire-spoke wheels, which are wrapped in a set of classic Pirelli Cinturato Tyres. Although perhaps a bit of a nightmare to clean, the spoked wheels and shiny centre spinners are in excellent condition and suit the classy body lines of the XK120 perfectly. 
Overall, it is very difficult to fault this wonderful Jaguar in terms of how it presents itself.

The car would make a stunning addition to a collection, and will no doubt continue to capture the hearts of onlookers wherever it may venture.

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The Mechanics

  • 3.5L straight-six with SE higher lift cams
  • Manual transmission
  • Drives brilliantly
  • Well maintained example
Buyers will be pleased to know that this Jaguar XK120 fires up right away, and happily idles away until you’re ready to unleash the straight-six. 

Upon pressing the accelerator, you’re welcomed by a sublime exhaust note and plenty of power throughout the gears. Although perhaps not as mind-blowing by today’s standards, it's no wonder these coupes were so popular in motorsport. 

As the included paperwork will show, this car has been well maintained over the years, benefitting from the likes of an engine rebuild, a new water pump, the expected consumables, and plenty more new components as part of the restoration process. 
If you’re looking to experience Jaguar’s legendary straight-six powered XK120 in all its glory without the worry of age-related faults, this car will gladly rise to the task at hand. 

Summary

This fixed-head coupe presents a brilliant opportunity to own a truly superb example of the iconic Jaguar XK120. 

This vehicle has spent the majority of its life in the USA, prior to returning to the UK and receiving a full restoration. The car now performs without fault and shows off an absolutely gorgeous exterior. 

Whether you’re looking for your next classic car show winner, an exotic weekend toy, or the next addition to your classic collection, this LHD Jaguar XK120 certainly won’t disappoint. 


Notice to bidders

Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.

As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1953
  • Make Jaguar
  • Model XK120 SE FHC (LHD)
  • Colour Red
  • Odometer 3,477 Miles
  • Engine size 3500
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Location Northumberland
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
25 bids
  • Al•••• £64,000 10/08/22
  • we•••• £63,500 10/08/22
  • Al•••• £63,000 10/08/22
  • we•••• £62,500 10/08/22
  • we•••• £62,000 10/08/22
  • Al•••• £61,500 10/08/22
  • we•••• £61,000 10/08/22
  • Al•••• £60,500 10/08/22
  • we•••• £60,000 09/08/22
  • Al•••• £57,000 09/08/22
Message C&C Auction Team

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