Description
Chassis number: 677813
Engine number: W9392-8
Matching number
Model history:
In October 1948, an automotive revolution was in the works. Jaguar had been working for several years on a new engine—powerful, light, robust and elegant. After several projects, the XK engine was born. However, the sporting saloon is not finished. Sir Lyon then decides to create a new model, more rakish, finer, more sensual and more evocative of the great speed it can reach (120 mph). This will be the “Dream-Car” of the Earl’s Court show.
Only a few weeks remain before the show, and the feat lies in the ability to create not a barely-mobile showroom “Master”, but a proper open-top sports car.
The entire Jaguar team mobilises under the orders of William Lyon and Heynes, his chief engineer. The factory uses the newly developed independent front suspension. The chassis, slightly modified, derives from the MKV, and the fittings are borrowed from the usual subcontractors’ catalogue.
Only the name remains to be chosen. There is nothing better than the engine number followed by the top speed that this incredible car can reach: thus it will be the JAGUAR XK 120!
History of this Jaguar XK120 convertible:
She was delivered new in the United States in 1953 in its Pastel Green colour. After restoration, she was imported to France in 2017. Still in its original colours, she is today in perfect running order and sports a very Californian colour code.
Bodywork:
She has excellent, very sound bodywork, with superb door and bonnet gaps. The paint is in very good condition with a superb shine. She has rare period “Tripod” headlights.
The windscreen and bumper chromes are in superb condition.
Interior:
Her green leather upholstery is in excellent condition, with a nice patina. The beige hood and the mohair lining have been restored, probably before import. The burr elm wood finish on the dashboard is splendid.
Engine:
She retains her original engine, which is in perfect condition, with excellent oil pressure and remarkable compression. Regular maintenance and the addition of an extra cooling fan to prevent overheating in modern traffic.
Gearbox:
She is fitted with a 5-speed gearbox, more modern. The operation is smooth and the fifth gear offers exceptional comfort on the highway.
Running gear:
The steering and front suspension are perfectly set, offering easy driving. The rear axle remains stable and ensures excellent road holding. On-road behaviour is impeccable, with no play or noise. The suspension works perfectly. She is fitted with four tubeless-spoke wheels and whitewall tyres, completing her 1950s look.
Braking:
Always fitted with drum brakes, braking is perfect and true in a straight line.
Sale price: €90, 000
