Chassis No. 672452
Engine No. W5285-8
Body No. F4444
The Jaguar XK 120 debuted at the 1948 Earls Court Motor
Show, instantly captivating audiences with its stunning design and exceptional
performance. Powered by the 3.4-liter XK engine, the Roadster delivered 160
horsepower and a top speed of 120 mph, made it the fastest street-legal sports
car the world had ever seen. The world-famous twin-cam engine featured an
aluminum alloy head and seven main bearings, powering all of Jaguar's cars for
years, including five Le Mans-winning models in the 1950s.
As recorded on its Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate (included
in sale), this XK 120 was completed on 25 June 1952, finished with a factory
special order color combination of Cream over Suede Green interior with a Fawn
soft-top, side curtains and tonneau cover. Most importantly, the Certificate
confirms this car retains its numbers-matching chassis, head, block,
transmission and body.
This attractive roadster was the recipient of a complete,
multi-year, six-figure restoration to better-than-factory new condition, as can
be verified in the accompanying invoices and progress photos that clearly
illustrate the exhaustive degree of work completed.
The body and chassis were separated and completely
refinished to an impressive JCNA concours standard of finish throughout. All brightwork
trim was similarly re-chromed to exacting JCNA standards by a local specialist
shop. The car rides on period correct, painted 48-spoke wire wheels with
two-eared Rudge-Whitworth knockoff hubs and shod in Dunlop Racing tires.
This XK 120 also benefits from a complete refurbishment of its
3.4-liter engine with less than 600 miles on the fresh rebuild.
All other mechanical and electrical systems were restored to exacting detail. The
restoration didn’t end with only building a beautiful car, it comes complete
with the jack, tool kit, tire pump, grease gun and matching spare tire ready to show in any JCNA event in the Champion Class.
The quality of the work was quickly acknowledged in its
debut with a Best in Class prize at the prestigious Iron Stone Concours,
followed by a 1st Place Regional JCNA concours prize. Well-equipped from the
factory and eligible for a host of international touring events, this wonderful
example will surely continue to impress its next curator and all who behold it.
Major systems were restored by the following: