Jaguar XK Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Jaguar XK Series

Jaguar introduced the XK120 at the 1948 London Motor Show, marking the brand's return to sports cars since the SS100. The '120' reflected the car's top speed—120 mph—making it the fastest production vehicle globally at the time. The XK series extended through three classic generations (XK120, XK140, XK150) until 1961, with each achieving recognition for technical advancements and racing accomplishments. These classics are remembered for their victories at events like Le Mans and numerous European rallies. In 1996, Jaguar revitalised the XK legacy with the introduction of the XK8, eventually leading to the advanced X150 series (2006–2014), establishing their place among modern luxury grand tourers.

Model History

The XK story started with the XK120 (1948–1954), offered initially as an open two-seater with an aluminium body, later available as a coupé and drophead coupé. The XK140 replaced it in 1954, introducing more comfort, improved suspension, brakes, and a roomier interior—available in left- or right-hand drive for various markets. The XK150 followed in 1957, showcasing significant styling, chassis, and interior updates, including disc brakes on all four wheels and a one-piece windscreen. Power options also increased over time, with 3.8L engines in later XK150s. The XK production lineage continued with the XK8/XKR (X100, 1996–2006) and XK/XKR (X150, 2006–2014), moving to V8 engines and aluminium chassis for contemporary performance and comfort. Each generation reflects key technological and design phases in Jaguar’s history.

Highlights of the Jaguar XK Series

Distinctive features include the XK120’s status in 1949 as the world’s fastest production car and the XK150’s pioneering use of four-wheel disc brakes. Across generations, XK models consistently merged luxury with advanced engineering. Options like the Special Equipment/C-Type heads (raising power significantly), and the choice of wire or pressed steel wheels, enhanced performance and exclusivity. Interior finishes ranged from luxurious walnut and leather dashboards in early models to full-leather trims in later versions.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Sought-after versions include the aluminium-bodied XK120 roadsters (only ~240 units), the XK140 SE and S versions (with higher-performance cylinder heads), and the XK150 3.8S, of which only about 888 OTS and 69 DHC were produced. Matching numbers and Heritage Certificates are highly valued, and period extras—like wire wheels, overdrive gearboxes, and rally instruments—further increase collectability.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Buyers should check for rust in body and chassis, especially in steel-bodied cars. Gearboxes (Moss units) can be problematic, mainly due to unsynchronised first gear and worn synchro rings. Electrical upgrades and cooling system improvements are common. Restorations should focus on authenticity, especially for Heritage-certified cars, and ‘matching numbers’ boost long-term value.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Jaguar XK models offer a blend of smooth straight-six performance, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and progressive driver comfort. Early XK120s could reach 120 mph, while later XK150 3.8S models delivered up to 265 hp. From the XK140 onwards, handling benefited from improved steering geometry and shock absorbers. XK150s added disc brakes for greater stopping power. Modern XK8/XKR variants use V8 engines and add sports suspension, advanced braking systems, and notably higher outputs (294–510 hp), making them capable long-distance grand tourers. - XK120 OTS (Open Two Seater) – world’s fastest car at launch

• XK150 3.8S – top power, one of the rarest XK models
• XK8/XKR (X100) – introduction of V8 and modern features
• XK (X150) – aluminium chassis, daily usability

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Classic XK interiors feature leather upholstery, wooden dashboards (mainly walnut root veneer in early cars, moving to all-leather in the XK150), iconic Smiths or Jaeger gauges, and details like adjustable steering columns. Exteriors are renowned for their long bonnets and sweeping lines, with period-correct wire wheels and colour selections from British Racing Green to Carmen Red. Special equipment included overdrives, rally extras, and chrome-plated accessories. From XK140 onwards, small rear seats increased practicality. Aluminium bodies (early XK120) and recognisable bonnet louvres or grille emblems differentiated variants.

Other Features

Jaguar XK models are eligible for events like the Mille Miglia and other major historic rallies—an important criterion for collectors. Original documentation, tools, and accessories remain significant for value and provenance. Modern XK models offer amenities such as navigation, automated climate control, and heated seats, highlighting the shift from pure sport to luxury touring.

Summary

The Jaguar XK family bridges thoroughbred British sports car tradition and post-war motoring innovation. Whether it’s an early aluminium XK120, a rare XK150S, or an XKR with supercharged V8 power, every XK demonstrates Jaguar’s pursuit of engineering prowess and distinctive style, reflected in high demand and broad collector interest.