1953 | Jaguar XK 120 DHC

The Jaguar XK120 was manufactured between 1948 and 1954; Jaguar's first sports car since the SS100, which ceased production in 1940. The XK120 was launched in roadster form at the 1948 London Motor Show as a show car for the new Jaguar XK engine. It caused a sensation thus persuading Jaguar founder and design boss William Lyons to put the car into production. The '120' in its name referred to its 120mph top speed which made the XK120 the world's fastest standard production car at the time of its launch. It was available in two open versions; first as the roadster then also as a drophead coupé from 1953 and also as a closed, or 'fixedhead' coupé from 1951. With an alloy cylinder head and twin side-draft SU carburettors, the double overhead-cam 3.4 litre straight-six XK engine was comparatively advanced for mass-produced units of its time.

The drophead we have here would have been the most expensive and rarest of the three derivatives at the time of delivery. With a properly fitting lined hood and wind-up windows it was also the far more practical option for use all year round. Extensively restored, this car has been fitted with some of the best concessions for modern motoring including electronic ignition, five-speed gearbox, front disc brakes, aluminium radiator and an alternator to mention just a few. Supplied with a V5C registration document together with a host of invoices. In a beautiful combination of Old English White with red leather trimmed by XK Specialists Suffolk and Turley, this left hand drive Jaguar is ready to be enjoyed by the most discerning of enthusiasts. Consigned by John Dutton