1955 | Jaguar XK 140 SE FHC

This highly usable, upgraded Jaguar XK140 SE FHC is a car we have known for over seven years. 443 UYM is a very well-travelled car having spent its early years in the US, several years in Australia before finally coming to the UK in 2015. This fantastic driving car has an impressive list of upgrades to include five speed gearbox, power steering, electric boot release, wider wheels and tyres, Fosseway upgraded braking system all round, and air-conditioning.

443 UYM was built on the 12th August 1955, and dispatched on the 29th of that month. Hoffman, New York were the original distributor, and the car was first owned by Alberta Steele. The XK spent over 50 years in the US, leaving Idaho Falls for Australia. It was over in Australia where the car was extensively refurbished, converted to RHD specification and upgraded and in 2015 the XK was imported into the UK by a private owner in Cambridgeshire who purchased the XK with the intentions of using it for long distance touring and classic car rallies.

On arrival with us for the first time back in 2017, the XK was subject to over £12,000 of work prior to being sold to one of our long term clients in Oundle who has now purchased nine Jaguars from us over the years. With an excellent body, lovely aged paintwork and a sharp, clean interior it was only bright work letting the car down cosmetically. The bumpers and over-riders were removed, and then fully re-chromed to a very high standard. The braking system was completely overhauled with all new upgrade kits from Fosseway to include brake discs, pads and upgraded brake calipers costing almost £3,500 alone. The XK also had new handbrake pads, replacement handbrake lever arms, new fuel tank sender unit, new fuel gauge, the speedo was re-calibrated, new tie arm bushes fitted, top and bottom ball joints, rebuilt steering rack, new lock set and full service.

Since supplying the XK in 2017 it has covered around 1000 faultless miles. The Jaguar has been part of a stunning Jaguar collection and whilst it has covered very few miles, it has been maintained to the highest standards with receipts on file for over £3500 of maintenance. On the road the XK140 feels very light, responsive, and very usable. The 3.4 engine with MKVII block and MKI Jaguar cylinder head sounds incredibly fit, holds excellent oil pressure and offers impressive performance. The five speed gearbox is superb to use and today is an incredibly expensive upgrade. At a 70mph cruising speed the car feels lovely and relaxed in top, and with rebuilt steering, 1000 miles on the upgraded braking system, the XK is quite simply a delight to drive. 443 UYM presents very well with a nice older paint finish, the bumpers are still gleaming, and the chassis and inner arches are all clean and sharp. The interior has a lovely aged feel to it, the woodwork and headlining are very smart and the engine compartment and boot area all present well. This is far from a purist's car but is without doubt an ideal candidate for long distance touring and regular use.