1951 | Jaguar XK 120 OTS

Sold | £63,250 GBP

• One of 6,436 left-hand-drive, open two-seater XK 120 examples built
• Delivered in June 1951 to New York distributor Max Hoffman
• Factory-finished in Black over a Biscuit and Red interior with a black soft-top; currently painted in British Racing Green over black upholstery
• In current ownership since 2012; used in numerous historic tours and exhibition events
• Powered by a 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine from a Jaguar XK 150
• Offered with a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust (JDHT) certificate, a spare set of wire wheels, studded snow tyres, and tonneau cover

Rolling off the Browns Lane production line on 4 June 1951, chassis number 671215 was one of 6,436 left-hand-drive, open-top XK 120s completed. The steel body was coated in Black paint contrasted by a Biscuit and Red interior plus a Black convertible roof. Destined for the United States, the Jaguar was dispatched on 14 June 1951 to distributor Max Hoffman in New York.

While the early history of this XK 120 is unknown, in the late-1960s the car was in the hands of F S Horner, who sold it to one Mr Tom Brady in the early-1970s. Brady stated that he then sold the Roadster to Wally Healey of Wakefield, Massachusetts in 1977. In July 1990, chassis number 671215 was exported from the United States and registered in Italy, where it formed part of a large private collection. It is believed that the car was restored and then finished in its current colour combination of British Racing Green over black upholstery before being sent to Europe.

It remained part of a private Italian collection until 2012, when the car was imported into the United Kingdom and acquired by its vendor. In the current ownership, this XK 120 has participated in various historic events and shows. Accordingly, it features aero screens, front disc brakes, and no convertible roof for lightness. A tonneau cover accompanies the vehicle.

The engine currently fitted is from a Jaguar XK 150 and has a displacement of 3.4 litres. The stamping on the cylinder head matches the stamping on the block. The car is accompanied by a JDHT certificate, a set of spare wire wheels, and a set of studded tyres for use in icy conditions. Perfect for fast-paced tours and rallies, the XK 120 is a driver’s favourite not only for its performance, but its handling and stunning good looks.To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/ch25/.