The XK120 was arguably the car which put Jaguar on the map as a producer of high performance sports cars. It led to a deluge of records and competition successes and introduced the remarkably long-lived XK engine.
This particular example was sold new in California before being later shipped to Switzerland. It is now registered in France and the vendor tells us that all taxes and import duties have been paid.
Presented in a remarkably good state throughout, the car is said to have been fully restored in 2004, then treated to an engine and gearbox overhaul in 2016. As such, it is beautifully preserved, with its bright red paintwork gleaming, the chrome glistening and the interior looking superb.
We’re sure that this Jaguar will attract the right kind of interest wherever it goes and will make an excellent choice for the discerning collector. Xk120 (17).jpg888.31 KB
The History and Paperwork
Built in 1953
Reportedly sold new in California
The car was later transferred to Switzerland
Now registered in France, with all taxes and VAT having reportedly been paid
Restored in 2004
Then overhauled in 2016
The vendor can supply over €90,000 worth of invoices from the restoration
The interior of this XK120 is simply superb, a real joy to look at. The black leather upholstery of the seating has been beautifully retrimmed and remains excellent. There are a few light creases to prove that the car has rarely been sat in.
Similarly well presented are the carpets. They are a fetching shade of dark blue and are trimmed in matching leather. There’s hardly a speck of dirt to be found on them, so they look very clean and fresh.
The driver is presented with a large Bakelite steering wheel, with a centre boss which proudly displays a Jaguar’s head logo. In front of this is that instrument panel, which is very well presented and features clear, bold instrumentation. The vendor tells us that this all functions as it should do. And to the right we see a brass plaque declaring that this car is a ‘replica of the record breaking car which achieved the speed of 132.6 M.P.H at Jabbeke, Belgium.'Xk120 (219).jpg907.93 KB
The Exterior
Superb bright red paintwork
Excellent panel fit
Highly polished chrome trim
Finished in a fabulously flamboyant shade of bright red, this Jaguar is beautifully eye-catching. And its flowing lines add to the appeal. The body panels appear to fit very well and they are smartly defined, with no obvious evidence of poor quality repair work.
The long front wings flow back along the length of the car and draw the eye towards the fared-in rear wheel arches. And with nothing but the two-piece windscreen protruding above the bonnet line
Chrome plating finishes all the external trim pieces, and remains very highly polished, with no evidence of pitting or damage that we could see. It even extends onto the colour matched wheels, which are in similarly superb condition, and are shod in a set of Vredstein tyres.
Having had a good look underneath the car, it appears to be very clean and tidy. The cassis rails, floors and body panels all look like they’ve not seen much use, and there is very little in the way of road dirt present. Xk120 (136).jpg762.3 KB
The Mechanics
3.4-litre straight-six XK engine
Engine and gearbox rebuilt in 2016
Said to change gear very nicely
Under the long, slender bonnet lies the groundbreaking XK engine which made its debut in the XK120 and served Jaguar well for decades to come. The engine bay is clean and tidy, with its twin overhead camshafts clearly delineated, and a pair of S.U. carburettors sitting happily nest to the engine.
The vendor tells us that the engine, along with the gearbox, was rebuilt in 2016, and that the car has seen little use since then.
Underneath, the running gear and suspension components all appear to be in very good condition, with no obvious damage or corrosion.Xk120 (276).jpg818.36 KB
Summary
This XK120 is truly a delight to look at. The standard of finish on its paint, trim and interior is superb, and it has covered reassuringly few miles since its major mechanical refurbishment.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
