Description
RTT 46 is an incredibly usable, upgraded, low mileage home market U. K. car with a brilliant, storied history. Whilst in the 30-year possession of the 4th registered keeper, this tremendous Jaguar XK120 DHC has been subject to immense expenditure to ensure its European touring capabilities. Marque specialist Ron Beaty carried out the engine rebuild, CMC Ltd have carried out £30, 000 of bodywork recommissioning and upgrading the car to electric power assisted steering. Other upgrades included a 5-speed manual gearbox from Guy Broad, alternator conversion, 1-2-3 electronic ignition, kenlowe fan and electric fuel pump.
This superb XK120 was first supplied as HTL 1 to a potato merchant of Sleaford who owned the car for the first 25 years. MOTs dating back to late 70s confirm the mileage at the point of sale to the second keeper in 1979 to be 39, 000. Following just 3 years of ownership and wearing its new registration number RTT 46 the car found itself in the hands of its 3rd keeper Sir Anthony Stuart Joliffe CBE, on the 14th of January 1982, the same year he proudly served as the Lord Mayor of London. Throughout his ownership the XK120 was kept in his museum collection in Chesham where it covered a mere 346 miles over the 14 years it was there while being taken for MOT testing annually. In 1996, RTT 46 came into the hands of the most recent keeper who has treasured the XK120 for almost 30 years, committing to a great level of expenditure. Having maintained the car to a standard where it is perfectly reliable for touring through France, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. Following the overseas touring and long ownership, the Jaguar has covered 70, 000 miles from new.
The specification of the XK120 is one that has been tailored towards long-distance touring. When Ron Beaty rebuilt the engine and gearbox in 1996 most of the ancillaries were upgraded to the more durable XK150 specification such as the waterpump, crank pulley and dynamo pulley. Most notably, a pair of 3/ 8" lift camshafts were fitted providing superb performance. 1998 saw the XK be fitted with a 5-speed gearbox for a more refined top end cruising speed. In 2000 the interior was treated to all new carpets, keeping the interior pleasant. CMC Ltd were commissioned to carry out a program of bodywork recommissioning in 2010 costing nearly £20, 000. In 2014, CMC created more leg room by adjusting the brake and clutch pedal as often seen on XK120's. The extra room in the footwell along with the EZ power steering kit were the finishing touches for great long-distance comfort.
For those looking for a reliable, beautiful, and capable XK120 for weekends away or rallying, this ticks every box.
