1955 Jaguar XK140 3.8-Litre Roadster
Registration no. YHW 140
Chassis no. 800021DN

One of only 74 right-hand drive XK140 roadsters made, this example (the 21st produced) was purchased by the current vendor's father in 1969 from a Mr Tempest Clayton of London NW7 (purchase receipt on file). The Jaguar was previously registered '993 HYT' and before that 'OWK 662', as recorded in the accompanying old-style logbook issued in 1964, and left the factory equipped with the 3.4-litre engine and overdrive gearbox. Its accompanying Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate reveals that the car was originally finished in red with matching interior, and that it was delivered new to Glovers of Ripon, Harrogate.

When purchased, the XK was running but very rusty and was stripped for repairs, ending up as a rolling chassis with only the bulkhead attached. The car remained dry-stored in this dismantled state for many years. In the 1980s a reproduction rear body section was fitted together with four new factory wings. The body was then reinstalled on the chassis and professionally repainted in British Racing Green using cellulose paint.

The engine currently installed is a 3.8-litre competition unit formerly used by legendary Jaguar saloon racer Albert Betts. Noteworthy features include a straight-port cylinder head; twin 2" SU HD8 carburettors on an early XJ6 manifold; and a modern distributor. Rolling road tested at 230bhp. Other desirable upgrades include a Getrag five-speed gearbox; servo-assisted XK150 disc brakes all round; a new wiring loom; twin exhausts; up-rated road springs; and Polybushed suspension. The Reutter bucket seats and interior were re-trimmed by Barton & Son of Luton, and the car comes with a tonneau cover and hood frame (but no hood).

The XK was reassembled and the project completed with no expense spared during 2010/2011 by renowned marque specialists CKL Developments, as evidenced by their detailed bills in the history file (perusal recommended). The rebuilt original 3.4-litre engine together with the original inlet manifold and overdrive gearbox are included in the sale (it should be noted that the cylinder head is a replacement).

To view a YouTube walkaround of this lot please click here