Desirable XK140 roadster accompanied by an extensive history file
Offered on behalf of its owner of 58 years, with virtually every journey documented
Guy Broad 3.8litre engine and triple 2" carburettors just 500 miles ago at a cost of in excess of £11000; original engine block supplied with the car
Recently recommissioned by Bristol Classic & Sportscar with £1600 invoice on file
MOT exempt and ULEZ compliant
The Appeal
The Jaguar XK140 was produced between 1954 and 1957 as the successor to the celebrated XK120. Improvements over its predecessor include increased cabin space, greater braking performance, rack-and-pinion steering, and more sophisticated telescopic dampers in place of the earlier lever-arm arrangement.
While many classic cars are offered with long-term ownership history, few are accompanied by such detailed records of their use. This example was purchased by its current owner with 80,855 miles on the clock on 22 May 1968, beginning what would become an extraordinary 58-year custodianship. So meticulous was his stewardship that, according to the seller, he maintained a journal documenting virtually every journey undertaken in the car, filling some 200 pages with neatly handwritten notes and observations. During his 58-year tenure, the car was used for many overseas tours with the Jaguar clubs, including Europe and America. Both the owner and the car are widely known in the Jaguar clubs, and this extraordinary car only becomes available due to the advancing years of the owner.
This XK presents a very solid chassis and suspension with excellent mechanical condition via the fresh 3.8 litre engine mated to the correct 4 speed overdrive gearbox, all working well with just over 500miles since Guy Broad installed the new powerplant. The bonnet and grill are from an XK120; however, the original 140 bonnet and a newly chromed grill are supplied with the car together with a selection of spares.
The car drives very well. The paintwork might require attention, should the buyer's funds permit. It has been in this condition for a very long time, and the long-term owner was quite happy for the car to be seen as a superb driving machine that had lived an exciting life. Of particular note, the speedo has had the correct font '1'' added ahead of the other 5 barrels on the odometer, signifying the 160837 miles to be correct for the car. The substantial, detailed history file documents this and the great care invested in the car by the owner.
With a replacement 3.8 litre engine fitted and recent service completed, the XK140 is now ready for its next chapter. Whether preserved and enjoyed as it stands or treated to sympathetic cosmetic improvements, it offers an appealing combination of long-term ownership, extensive documentation and proven usability. image.png3.61 MB
Key Information
Mileage: 60,837 miles (unwarranted, seller reports total distance covered is 160,837 miles)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT-exempt
Technical specs: 3.8-litre inline-six, four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Paperwork: Handwritten journal, book-keeper list of costings, and various invoices
Originally delivered to New Jersey in February 1955 before being purchased in September 1959 at 16,000 miles by a Mr Russell, who had the rear tonneau panel modified
Mr Russell returned to the UK with the XK140 in July 1962, and the car was converted to right-hand-drive configuration in June 1964 and registered ‘110 BOW’
A Mr R T Baynes purchased the vehicle in June 1965 before then moving it onto a mechanic in Gerrards Cross, who fitted a Gold Top Head with larger carburettors, shared with the E-Type
Subsequently enjoyed by two other owners and driven to 80,855 miles in May 1968, at which point the vehicle was acquired by the current owner
White paintwork with a black hood and red leather interior
Separate black tonneau cover
Windscreen with side screens
Chrome wire wheels
Rear ‘GB’ badge
Three-spoke Moto-Lita steering wheel
Refurbished engine installed by Guy Broad in November 2022, fitted with lightened flywheel and ring gear, new HT leads, new high-torque starter, new plastic engine fan, an exchange crankshaft damper, and a new battery (original engine also included)
Additionally, the carburettors were serviced, a rear core plug was repaired, electronic ignition was fitted, and the oil filter was replaced - original engine block also included
Carefully recommissioned by marque specialist with invoice for £1,600 on file
The bodywork may require a respray or can be left as it has been for many years
Boot lid has fittings for a luggage rack.
Vendor says, 'the interior dash and seats are nicely patinated'
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