1956 | Jaguar XK 140 OTS

JAGUAR XK 140 OTS – ROADSTER 1956 – 1000 MIGLIA ELIGIBLE

Make: Jaguar
Model: XK 140 OTS – Roadster
Year: 1956
Chassis: 812310
Engine: G 7436
Displacement: 3,442 cc
Power: 190 HP @ 5,500 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox (optional overdrive)
Drive: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Odometer: 43 miles
Certification: ASI Certificate of Historical Significance
Interior: Red Connolly leather
Exterior: Ivory white
Soft top: Black

 

Description and Condition

This magnificent 1956 Jaguar XK 140 OTS Roadster, fully eligible for the 1000 Miglia, stands as one of the most beautifully restored examples of Jaguar’s post-war sporting legend.

Chassis 812310 and engine G 7436 underwent a complete, frame-off restoration carried out by specialised craftsmen, starting from the bare chassis and body shell. Every mechanical and aesthetic component has been meticulously rebuilt or replaced according to the original Jaguar factory specifications.

The mechanical systems, Connolly leather upholstery, black soft top, chrome trim, electrical wiring, and every small detail have been treated with uncompromising attention to originality and finish.

The car now presents in “as-new” condition, with only 43 test miles driven since completion, purely for mechanical verification.

 

Model History

Introduced in 1954 as the successor to the groundbreaking XK 120, the Jaguar XK 140 represented a major step forward in terms of comfort, refinement, and performance.

It retained the legendary 3.4-litre inline-six DOHC engine, directly derived from the Jaguar C-Type racing car, producing 190 HP and capable of propelling the XK 140 to speeds in excess of 200 km/h (124 mph) — an extraordinary figure for its time.

The OTS (Open Two Seater), commonly known as the Roadster, was the purest and most sporting version, distinguished by its low windscreen, simple folding hood, and elegant, aerodynamic bodywork.

Only 3,350 XK 140 OTS examples were produced between 1954 and 1957, making this model rare and highly desirable among collectors worldwide.

 

Certification and Historical Value

This car is accompanied by an official ASI Certificate of Historical Significance, confirming its authenticity and historical accuracy.
The certification also guarantees full eligibility for the 1000 Miglia, the world’s most prestigious historic road race, open exclusively to cars produced before 1957 with confirmed period provenance.

 

Technical Specifications

Specification

Detail

Engine

Inline 6-cylinder, twin overhead camshafts (DOHC)

Displacement

3,442 cc

Power output

190 HP @ 5,500 rpm

Fuel system

Twin SU H6 carburettors

Transmission

4-speed manual gearbox (optional overdrive)

Drive type

Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

Chassis

Steel frame with cross members

Front suspension

Independent with torsion bars

Rear suspension

Live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs

Brakes

Drum brakes on all four wheels (servo-assisted optional)

Kerb weight

Approx. 1,300 kg

Top speed

Over 200 km/h (124 mph)

Acceleration (0–100 km/h)

Approx. 9.0 seconds

Total production (OTS)

3,350 units (1954–1957)

 

Remarks

Due to the lengthy restoration process, the owner’s circumstances have since changed, leading to the reluctant decision to sell this exceptional car — despite the cost of the work far exceeding the asking price.

A unique opportunity for the discerning collector seeking a fully restored, ASI-certified Jaguar XK 140 Roadster, ready for immediate use and 1000 Miglia participation, without the wait or cost of undertaking a restoration of this quality.