MODEL HISTORY

The Jaguar XK140 does not need much of an introduction. Launched in 1954 as a successor to the Jaguar XK120, very little was changed cosmetically with the exception of a new grille design with a chrome strip extending down the length of the bonnet. The main changes were mechanical and practical in the form of improved room in the cabin, improved brakes, rack and pinion steering and tweaks to the suspension. Power was mildly increased on the standard car from 182bhp to 190bhp and like the XK120, a Special Equipment model was offered with uprated head and carburettors boosting power to 210hp. The XK140 was offered in three body styles: Fixed Head Coupé, Drophead Coupé and Open Two Seat (OTS).

THIS MOTOR CAR

The Jaguar XK140 SE Open Two Seater for sale at the Classic Motor Hub is 1 of just 74 XK140 OTS examples built in RHD and 1 of just 36 specified with the desirable Special Equipment option. As well as SE specification, this example was ordered with the C-Type head and carburettors, which raised engine power from 190bhp to 210bhp. Other additions from the SE package were twin exhaust system, wire wheels with knock-on hubs, twin fog lamps, high speed crankshaft damper and windscreen washers.

The beginning of this cars life is an interesting one. Ordered new by Sgt. Eugene A. Rinberg, a USAF serviceman based at the NATO airbase near Phalsbourg in North East France, the car was delivered to him via the Paris Jaguar agents, Delecroix, and yet was specified in Right Hand Drive, a fact confirmed by the Jaguar Heritage Certificate we have on file. When it was time to return to the USA, Sgt. Rinberg took his beloved XK140 with him. Soon after the car was sold to George Montgomery, a well known Hollywood actor who starred in many Westerns and his roles included the Lone Ranger and the Cisco Kid.

In the 1988 the car was bought by a Lenhardt Stevens of California, whether he bought it direct from George Montgomery or if there was one owner in between is not clear.

After 5 years of ownership, Mr. Stevens decided to embark on a full restoration and in 1993 sent the car to Hector Castro, a Pebble Beach standard restorer, who at the time was based in California but now operates in Denver. He carried out a body off restoration, powder coating the chassis and doing an incredible job on the body and paintwork. One wouldn’t believe this car was restored 25 years ago, it could have been done last year! Testament to Hector’s workmanship and the owners since it was done. The mechanical side of things was done by Paul Rougeux, also a California based restorer. Completed in December 1997, the car was clearly used sparingly and lovingly looked after for the following 10 years until it came to the UK in 2007 and was put in the private collection of Henry Pearman of Eagle. In 2010 the current owner bought the car and has taken it to many Jaguar Enthusiast Club events and lavished on it the sort of car that befits such a well cared for example. Most recently, the car was taken to K & N Classic Cars to have all the tappets adjusted, a new pressure relief valve fitted and a fresh set of spark plugs.

Available for immediate inspectionl, this beautiful Jagaur XK140 SE OTS for sale at the Classic Motor Hub is a wonderful opportunity for any Jaguar enthusiast or collector. An incredibly rare example in simply stunning condition and we can assure any potential buyers that the driving experience matches the looks.