Description
Capots Vintage, specialists in Sport & Collection vehicles in Lyon, presents this automobile to you—selected with care and accompanied by a detailed presentation. We are pleased to present this Jaguar XK120 Roadster, a true masterpiece of post-war British motoring. Supplied brand new to Los Angeles in March 1954, the final year of production for the model before the arrival of the XK140, it encapsulates in one vehicle the elegance, sporting character and refinement that helped the XK line earn its place in automotive legend. This XK120 is distinguished by its desirable M specification—an American-market designation used to refer to the SE “Special Equipment” version, identifiable by the “S” prefix in the chassis number. More sporting than the standard car, it received, among other upgrades, higher-lift camshafts, a lightened engine flywheel, a specific crankshaft damper, a twin exhaust system, wire wheels, and uprated (stiffer) suspension. With this configuration, the engine developed around 180 bhp SAE, compared with 160 bhp for a standard XK120—making this version one of the most sought-after variations of the model. Restored entirely over nearly three years in France by recognised professionals known for their expertise with collectable automobiles, this XK120 is presented today in a deep black finish, enhanced by a remarkably elegant Orange Hermès leather interior. By the quality of its finishing, the harmony of its colours and the sculptural beauty of its lines, it goes beyond being simply a collectible roadster, coming closer to a genuine work of automotive art. With its flared wings, long bonnet with a deep dip, chrome 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—perfectly stretched and beautifully presented—has been applied with care following meticulous surface preparation, giving the car an especially elegant visual finish today. Body panel fit, panel alignment, the wing contours, the shut lines and various chromed elements all display excellent workmanship, perfectly consistent with the overall level of restoration. The bumpers, the vertical grille, the wire wheels, Lucas auxiliary headlamps and the brightwork/ trim pieces all fully contribute to this refined presentation, giving this XK120 a rare and highly desirable presence.
The Orange Hermès leather interior is equally impressive, with seating, carpets and all trim completely restored using high-quality materials. The attention given to the finishing, piping and upholstery details shows meticulous work, resulting in a cabin that is both warm, refined and distinctly individual. The (fully accepted) choice of Orange Hermès upholstery particularly highlights the shape of the cabin and the artisanal work carried out around the cockpit—especially on the bolsters, the piping and the door trims. The dashboard, the three-spoke Bakelite steering wheel and the complete Smiths instrument set are in excellent condition. The black alpaca hood and the side-screens have also been redone, adding with elegance to this superbly executed interior restoration.
On the mechanical side, the file of invoices proves a particularly serious and well-documented restoration. The engine and gearbox have been removed, allowing a complete overhaul of the famed XK straight-six. The work included, in particular, regrinding (rectifying) the crankshaft, replacing bearings, pistons, valves, guides, tappets, and the timing chains and sprockets, as well as a full cylinder-head rebuild with testing—surfacing, regrinding the seats and fitting valve seats compatible with unleaded petrol. As with the rest of the car, the mechanical components are in excellent condition and testify to the quality of the restoration carried out. The famous XK straight-six has received a complete rebuild, just like the Moss gearbox, the rear axle and the braking system. The underbodies are in the same outstanding condition as the bodywork, with a particularly careful presentation.
Electronic ignition and the Dynator allow today’s use to be more reliable and calm—without altering the authentic character of this great classic Jaguar. The restoration file is particularly comprehensive and includes all invoices related to the work carried out. This traceability is an important asset, allowing you to appreciate precisely the quality, the scope and the seriousness of…
