Model history

When the Jaguar XK120 was launched in 1948, it was unique. The new Jaguar sports car brought racing car performance to the road, yet it did so with a level of comfort and sophistication unknown in such a vehicle. The car was intended for limited production only to try out Jaguar’s new twin overhead camshaft engine, designated during design and development by the initials ‘XK’.

The pioneering XK120 was succeeded by the XK140 in 1954. By the time of the XK140’s introduction, the racing C-type Jaguars had won Le Mans twice, which created great publicity for the company. The XK140 retained the classic shape and became a more refined car. The XK140 was powered by the William Heynes designed 3.4 litre double overhead camshaft inline-6 engine with the Special Equipment modifications from the XK120. This resulted in an output of 190 bhp @ 5500 rpm.

The appeal of XK’s today is probably based on such intangibles as nostalgia and style, but they can be very practical cars. The performance, even by today’s standards, is highly respectable.

This example

This lovely matching number Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupe was built on the 6th of November in 1956. The car was distributed to Jaguar Cars, New York, USA on the 16th of November. In the early 90's the car was imported from the United States to Holland. The car then belonged to a customer of ours who started a body-off restoration in 1995. A nice photo album is available of the restoration.

The current Dutch owner bought this lovely Jaguar in 1998. Further improvements were made in 2001 for a total of 10.000 euro. The car was looked after very well since. In February 2021 the car was professionally detailed for 4.500 euro. The result is very impressive as the Jaguar shines like a mirror. The car runs and drives very well, handling is excellent and the gearbox is a delight. The car is valued for insurance at 165.000 euro.

According to the Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate, the car still has its matching number engine. This car benefits from 16 inch chrome wire wheels, a Moto-Lita wooden steering wheel and an electric fan. Only 15.500 miles were driven since the restoration. Beautifully finished in black with a red leather interior. Fresh out of 24 year ownership.

Dutch registered. Please call for information.

Price is euro 152.500 euro.

Very Superior Old Cars is a classic sportscar consultancy company founded in 1992. We work for our customers to assist with all aspects of their car interests. From acquisition consultancy with restoration advice and management to private sales in our boutique art gallery.

VSOC is centrally located between Amsterdam and The Hague, only 17 km (11 miles) from Schiphol Airport. There is a broad selection of classic sports cars on display, in very good or excellent condition, varying from beautiful yet affordable sports cars to rare and valuable collectors’ items. When you intend to visit us in The Netherlands, we would advise you to make an appointment so that we can give you some quality time. If you arrive by plane or train, we would be happy to pick you up at the airport or train station. Besides Dutch we speak English, German, French and Italian.