1951 | Jaguar XK 120 OTS

Early-production XK120 OTS

Fully restored to a high standard

Finished in Dove Grey over a red interior

In the years immediately following the Second World War, the European automotive industry was rebuilding itself, both technically and culturally. Until that point, Jaguar was respected for its elegant saloons, but it had not yet produced a car capable of truly challenging the world’s leading sports car manufacturers. That changed decisively with the introduction of the XK120. Powered by the newly developed twin cam straight six engine, it became the fastest production car in the world while remaining refined and usable. More importantly, it established Jaguar’s sporting identity, an achievement that continues to define the brand today. More than 70 years later, the XK120 remains one of the most recognisable and respected sports cars ever built. Among the various versions, the Open Two Seater stands apart as the most direct and authentic interpretation of the XK120 concept.

This Jaguar XK120 Open Two Seater was manufactured in 1951, delivered new through Hoffman Motor Car Co. in New York, and first registered in 1953. The car was fully restored several years ago, to a high standard and with a clear understanding of the model. The quality of the work is evident in the straight panel fit, the well finished paintwork and the overall coherence of the presentation. Years after completion, the car still presents in excellent condition, reflecting a restoration carried out by knowledgeable specialists. Early XK120s built in 1950 and 1951 occupy a particularly important place in the model’s history. Produced in lower numbers and with a higher degree of hand craftsmanship, they are closer to the original XK120 concept than later production cars. Today, this example is finished in Dove Grey with a red interior, a combination that complements the long bonnet, flowing wings and low windscreen exceptionally well. The interior follows the same philosophy, featuring well preserved leather, a clean presentation and a high level of finish that feels entirely appropriate for an early XK120 OTS. Completeness is a key strength of this car. It is offered with its toolset, soft top, side screens and rear wheel spats, elements that are often missing but essential to the correct presentation of an Open Two Seater. From a documentation perspective, the car is equally well supported. It comes with FIVA identity papers, making it directly suitable for historic events and rallies, as well as a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, confirming its factory build details and original specification.

Taken as a whole, this is a well documented, early Jaguar XK120 OTS, restored with care and presented in an attractive and coherent specification. It remains an outstanding example of the car that defined Jaguar’s sporting legacy and explains why, more than seven decades later, the XK120 is still regarded as one of the great sports cars of all time.