Lot details Registration No: YVS 710 Chassis No: A815412BW Mot Expiry: Aug 2011
Launched at the 1954 Motor Show, the XK140 boasted the same bewitching styling as its forebear but allied it to a host of important mechanical improvements. Chief among these was the adoption of rack-and-pinion steering, though the fitment of telescopic shock absorbers (in place of the XK120's antiquated lever-arm dampers) also had a noticeably beneficial effect on handling / roadholding. With its engine and bulkhead repositioned three inches further forward, the new model enjoyed a notably roomier cabin. Available in 'standard', 'special equipment' or 'special equipment plus C-type cylinder head' guises, power and torque outputs ranged from 190bhp / 210lbft to 210bhp / 213lbft. Distinguished by one-piece bumpers and a simpler, more imposing radiator grille, the XK140 was among the fastest cars of its generation. Reputedly capable of over 130mph, it focused public consciousness on Jaguar's continued success at Le Mans (the Coventry marque winning the endurance classic in 1951, 1953, 1955, 1956 and 1957). In production for less than three years, just 2,800 XK140 Fixed Head Coupes are thought to have left the Browns Lane factory.
Reportedly supplied new to California as a left-hand drive `special equipment' model complete with Borg Warner slush `box, this particular example is understood to have been converted to right-hand drive and manual transmission since its repatriation. The vendor says: "The Jaguar was imported to the UK in 1993. The body is extremely straight with excellent original panels which were stripped to bare metal and resprayed by Deville Motors of Somerset. The interior woodwork was reveneered and new upholstery fitted". He describes the motor as "strong" and the transmission and electrical equipment as "excellent", adding: "The car is aging very well and has proven very reliable even when used on a daily basis. It is being sold because my collection is being reconfigured due to my son's racing ambitions". Riding on wire wheels, this gorgeous Jaguar is accompanied by a Heritage Certificate, photographic restoration record and MOT certificate valid until August 2011.
PLEASE NOTE: This lot has overdrive and driving lamps.
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