Description
Post war the XK120’s straight six made it the world’s fastest production car in 1948 and a decade later the ultimate development of this power unit was acclaimed in Jaguar’s final incarnation of the XK series; the XK150. The last of the XK line was pushed through just months after fire had all but destroyed parts of the Browns Lane factory in 1957. The chassis remained unaltered but dressed in all new body panels, whilst higher scuttle and wrap around windscreen was aimed to please the ‘Stateside’ market. The following year it took the genius of tuning expert Harry Westlake to increase the power of the 3. 4 dramatically to 250bhp and reducing the 0-60mph time to under 8 seconds. Triple SU’s and revised cylinder head combination was then applied to the 3781cc XC unit which culminated in the ultimate XK; the 3. 8S.
RBN 376 is also a story of continued development and improvement that is all about pace and grace, resulting in one of the finest rally inspired Drop Head Coupe available with a fascinating history. This chassis actually left the factory in March 1960 as a fixed head coupe and finished in Pearl Grey with red interior on route to supplying dealer Parkers of Bolton. In 1990-91 it enjoyed a full restoration by classic Jaguar specialist Peter Thurston in Kent and during this period it’s believed the drop head conversion was carried out; the invoice for this period was £58k. Post 91 and up to the millennium the car was maintained by KJC Bell when another £22k was invested after which a new owner requested XK specialists Twyford Moors in Hampshire for a competition upgrade and modifications to Rally spec. The work took around 8 months to complete costing around £60K and five years later the car returned for further upgrades including the fitting of a Sigma competition engine to the tune of £58K. August 2008 saw a new custodian who asked engineer Gary Pearson to maintain the XK before the current owner took over in May 2020 after purchasing the car via Twyford Moors. They would continue to look after RBN 376 up to date with work starting in June 2020 including fresh tyres, brakes plus the fitting of parking sensors. A month later new exhaust manifolds and powder coat to the heater box improving under bonnet visuals, then in May 21 new carpets plus overmats, hood lining and re-trim of the rear quarter panels completed the wonderful interior. Finally, in September 21 the engine enjoyed new mountings and a tune; a total outlay of just under £10k in two years, since when it has been kept in heated storage.
Exterior finished in period Carmen Red, the mohair hood shows no signs of wear whilst the chrome bumper and over-riders are recent having been requested by the current owner. The boot carries a new spare wheel and tyre (never fitted) plus tonneau, cover and bags. The 46 spoke chrome wires are wrapped in Brockley rubber and having inspected the underside on a ramp the conclusion was ‘very good’ with chassis and panels showing minimal age. Close inspection revealed two tiny stone chips on the front edge of the bonnet and unmarked wheel arches. Interior enjoys red leather seating with matching carpets and trims, all in excellent order much of which has been fitted over the past few years. Veneer on the door caps and dash are superb and sit well alongside the original Bakelite door pulls and Motolita steering wheel. The intrusion of rally equipment is minimal, discrete power isolator and blue tooth connection whilst the Brantz trip metre sits under the dash and blends in nicely. Hidden bottle for the ‘plumbed in’ fire extinguisher with floor mounted rings to accommodate a pair of safety harnesses. Wonderfully prepared keeping the originality of the model foremost, this XK can rally on a Saturday then show to concourse standard on Sunday and here at Country Classic Cars we welcome any inspection.
The current specification includes Sigma competition engine (fast road/ rally). Getrag 5-speed gearbox, 48 spoke 15" wire chrome rims, alloy radiator, Kenlowe fan. Competition oil cooler, pedal box and alternator. Electronic ignition. Battery cut-outs, upgraded rear and fog lights Power steering. Poly bushed + adjustable Spax all round. Geometry reset, split/ adj brakes with 4-pot calipers, plumbed-in fire extinguisher. Brantz rally meter. Upgraded heater, alpine sound system. Sat nav. Fitted luggage and tonneau, front and rear tow hitches.
For additional information please message with your email address for detailed images or a short walk-round video; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only and within current Covid guidelines and whilst inspections are encouraged, please bear in mind the changing situation but currently we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.
