The Jaguar XK120 was a car that changed the face of competitive motorsports. When introduced in 1948, there was nothing like it on the market. Certainly, the immediate post-World War II market called for more utilitarian cars, and a little fun on the open road was probably very far from anyone's mind at the time. The XK120 made its debut at the 1948 London Motor Show as a glamorous show car, but it caused such a sensation that Jaguar's President, William Lyons, immediately ordered it into production. The XK120 was a smash hit both on the street and the racetrack, where it went on to win races on every continent. With victories piling up at events everywhere, it was clear that the Jaguar XK120 was a winner and the car to beat.

The fit, finish, and quality of this 1951 Jaguar XK120 is without question an exceptional specimen, and as a numbers-matching example, it features all of the wonderful characteristics that made the XK120 the world standard in British sports cars. As the recipient of a concours level restoration, it has the look and feel of a new car. The restoration of this XK involved a complete tear down and it was then reassembled as per the Jaguar Club of North America guidelines. The engine was completely rebuilt and impeccably detailed with polished aluminum valve covers, twin SU carburetors, and an auxiliary cooling fan. All hoses and wiring are properly sorted and the unmistakable growl from its inline twin cam six is exactly what the XK120 was known for. Even more spectacular is the chassis, as all suspension, springs, exhaust pipes, linkages, and cables are all properly restored and finished in correct colors. The refinishing of the body involved a bare metal refinish in beautiful Carmen Red, a color that makes this XK120 stand out in the crowd. On the exterior, all chrome was re-plated to concours standards. A badge bar up front proudly displays a medallion of Queen Elizabeth and the Royal Automobile Club. The beauty of this XK120 is nicely showcased in its wire wheels with correct blackwall tires.

The interior is exactly what one would expect in a classic British sports car with fine black leather seats and a driver's compartment that defines how a sports car should look. All door panels, the dashboard, upholstery, and carpet present very well and correct. This Jaguar has been fitted with seat belts for safety and it also has a correctly mounted under-the-dash radio. The radio carries an authentic Jaguar look and appearance but has been fitted with state-of-the-art electronics for modern reliability. The overall look and appearance of this XK120 is a testament to the meticulous restoration it received. Acquired by the current private collection in 2017, this example has been sparingly driven but always properly maintained in a climate-controlled setting. This XK120 also comes with both its long and short tonneau covers, side curtains, and also its Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate.

Very few cars have made the impact that Jaguar's XK120 has made over the years. Its legendary performance, excellent design, and timeless elegance were a bold move then, and they remain today as one of the most stylish cars ever built. This fine example, with its excellent Jaguar reliability and classic British roadster styling, is a car that begs to be driven while also being a welcome addition to the concours show field.