Description
It’s true, that when Jaguar first unveiled the XK120 at Earls Court in 1948 they were just gauging public interest with no definite plans to produce a new six-cylinder sports car from their alloy bodied prototypes. Such ‘peerless beauty’ resulted in an instant sensation which by the mid-fifties had been updated to the XK140 which in the eyes of many in period offered more comfort but less speed. In fact, the ‘140’ offered both, improved acceleration and a slightly higher top speed but with the engine moved forward 3 inches not only was additional space created within the cabin but the weight distribution balance improved and so did the handling. Rack and pinion steering with suspension retuning via telescopic shock absorbers with torsion bars. Between 1954 and 1957 just under 9000 XK140’s were produced, many travelling Stateside. The XK140, like its predecessor was courted by the rich and famous … Francoise Sagan (1935-2004), a highly successful French writer, playwright, screenwriter and novelist has a model of a ‘140dhc’ on her tombstone and is remembered not least for the quote “Money may not buy happiness, but I’d rather cry in a Jaguar than on a bus”
Country Classic Cars are thrilled to be able to offer the XK140 drop head coupe that promises tears of joy with many miles of pure Jaguar driving. For sale on behalf of the current and long-term custodian, this XK140 DHC has been confirmed as the oldest running right hand drive example (earlier DHC’s were built exclusively for the US market) being chassis number 807007 just 003 is known to have survived but is not road worthy. A build date of 3rd January 1955 this chassis was originally finished in Dove Grey with Biscuit interior (it still retains) and was distributed via Henly’s of London via Phelys Johnson Ltd to its first owner Mr Rippen in Kings Lynn on 14th February 1955; the first of just 3 former owners. Mot’s confirm that by the mid 80s this car was based in Sussex and the current owner purchased the car from Twyford Moors July 2001. The history file from that date is comprehensive and detailed offering the opportunity to list many of the more important invoices here:
24th September 2001: Engine & gearbox rebuild @ 69k miles
Seatbelts installed and Kenlowe fan fitted, expansion header tank
It is worth noting the engine rebuild was carried out by renowned XK specialists VSe in Wales … a leadfree conversion was included. Unfortunately, the owners retired in 2018 after an estimated 10k engine rebuilds including many performance and competition packages for the Jaguar straight six motors.
June 2002 Stainless exhaust system
Sept 2003 Radiator re-core, December 2003 Diff drive flange & pinion seal
October 2006 new starter motor, April 2008 Fr & Rr shock absorbers
May 2009 Overdrive fitted/ balance flywheel new propshaft
Feb 2011 Electronic ignition
More recent invoices feature
January 2023 Rear brake shoes & wheel cylinder seals with service inc plugs and front exhaust manifold with corresponding down pipe replaced
June 2026 Annual service, electronic fuel pump with fuel filter/ new core plugs/ rear wheel cylinders/ brake master cylinder and brake lines/ anti roll bar bushes/ top ball joints/ steering rack mounts/ E10 fuel seals in carbs/ steering alignment.
Mot certificates are available from 1977 @ 47200 to date and verify milage currently at 85592.
There is no arguing the sheer presence of this Jaguar stops folks in their track’s whist retaining much originality at 70 years young it is guaranteed to have required a freshen up over the decades. The change to Carmine Red is referred to as far back as the mid-eighties and the paint is bright and largely excellent but we have noted; two stone chips and small paint blemish n/ s front wing with both front wheel arches suffering from small areas of road pickup. A touch-in to further chips o/ s front wing whilst the chrome wires appear recent as does the Vredestein tyres all round. Any new owner should consider the rubber seals under the rear lights; these are aged as are the screen frame rubbers; there is also a repairable chip in the passenger side screen glass. Slight chips to the boot lid edge both sides would benefit from touching in and we can confirm all the chrome is in excellent order, bright and blemish free. The roof cover and lining are serviceable, will keep out the moisture but we consider should be budgeted for replacement. We have priced the parts with roof cover £711. 93 with headlining at £371. 70 plus labour to fit.
The current owner has authorised Country Classic Cars to replace all interior carpeting prior to sale we also noted a slight cut in the passenger seat back and consider a period radio would offer the chance to replace the miss-coloured ashtray (aerial is already fitted). The driver’s door trim panel has been caught during entry & exit and needs attention whilst the very top of the door cappings have faded and would transform the appearance once re-varnished.
No doubt the XK 140 has survived extremely well but has not led a garage bound existence, this car has been used and is at its best on the move. The engine responds instantly, oil pressure just under 50lbs at idle when hot, the clutch is light under foot whilst the transmission is surprisingly slick, presenting a short and exact throw with the bonus of overdrive. The driving experience is one of the most impressive we have enjoyed of any classic Jaguar with precise steering and excellent brakes this DHC is the perfect option for a continental tour or classic rally. Comfortable with ample performance, the only tiring part is the constant waving to acknowledge admiration from other travellers.
For additional information please message with your email address for specific detailed images; 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 as our cars are often kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.
