Description
, specialist in Sport & Collection vehicles in Lyon, presents you with this automobile—selected with care and accompanied by a detailed presentation.
We are delighted to present this Jaguar XK120 Roadster, a true masterpiece of the post-war British automotive world. Supplied new to Los Angeles in March 1954—the final year of production of the model before the arrival of the XK140—it embodies, all on its own, the elegance, sporting character and refinement that helped the XK line earn its place in motoring legend.
This XK120 stands out with its desirable M specification, a name used on the American market to denote the SE “Special Equipment” version. It’s identifiable by the “S” prefix in the chassis number. More sporting than the standard variant, it received, among other features, camshafts with higher lift, a lighter flywheel, a specific crankshaft damper, a twin exhaust outlet, wire wheels, and firmer suspension. As configured, the engine produced around 180 bhp (SAE), compared with 160 bhp for a standard XK120—making this version one of the most sought-after interpretations of the model.
Completely restored over nearly three years in France by recognised professionals with proven expertise in classic collectable cars, this XK120 is now presented in a deep black finish, complemented by an Orange Hermès leather interior of rare elegance. By virtue of the quality of its trim, the harmony of its colours, and the sculpted beauty of its lines, it goes beyond being just a collector’s roadster and comes across as a true piece of automotive art.
With its curvaceous wings, long flowing bonnet, chromed vertical grille and low, fluid silhouette, the XK120 remains one of the most desirable roadsters of its era. The condition of the bodywork is simply remarkable, reflecting restoration work carried out to an extremely high standard. The deep black paint, flawlessly tight and beautifully finished, was applied carefully following meticulous surface preparation, delivering an especially elegant overall result today. The panel gaps, alignment, wing contours, body openings and various chrome details all display a very high level of craftsmanship, in perfect keeping with the car’s overall restoration quality. Bumpers, the vertical grille, wire wheels, Lucas auxiliary headlights and the coachbuilt fittings all play a full part in this refined presentation, giving this XK120 a rare and highly desirable presence.
The Orange Hermès leather interior is equally outstanding, with upholstery, carpets and all trims fully restored using top-quality materials. The care taken with the finishing, piping and upholstery details is clear, resulting in a cabin that is both warm, refined and distinctly individual. Choosing this fully embraced Orange Hermès upholstery particularly highlights the cabin’s contours, as well as the artisanal work carried out around the cockpit—especially on the bolster areas, the piping and the door trims. The dashboard, the Bakélite three-spoke steering wheel and the complete Smiths instrumentation are in excellent condition. The black alpaca hood and the side-screens have also been re-made, completing this beautifully executed interior restoration with real elegance.
Mechanically, the invoices folder confirms a particularly serious and well-documented restoration. The engine and gearbox were removed, allowing a complete rebuild of the famous XK six-cylinder. The work included, in particular, regrinding the crankshaft, replacing bearings, pistons and valves, along with guides, tappets, timing chains and sprockets. It also involved a full cylinder head refurbishment with test/ pressure checks, machining, valve seat reworking and the fitting of valve seats compatible with unleaded petrol.
Like the rest of the car, the mechanical components are in excellent condition and reflect the quality of the restoration carried out. The famous XK six-cylinder has been fully rebuilt, as has the Moss gearbox, the rear axle and the braking system. The underpinnings are in the same excellent condition as the bodywork, with an exceptionally careful presentation. Electronic ignition and the Dynator now allow for more reliable, calm use—without altering the authentic character of this great classic Jaguar.
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