Lot details Registration No: UN-REG Chassis No: S815942 Mot Expiry: None
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 (the fixed and drophead coupe variants gaining occasional rear seats as a result). 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 its one-piece bumpers and simpler, more imposing radiator grill, 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). According to information kindly supplied by Peter Ingram of the XK Gazette: "chassis S815942 is the very last known LHD XK140 FHC in existence. The series ended with chassis 815966 so it is 24 from the end of that model's production". Finished in Old English White, this rather special XK has been in the current ownership since 1986. Trimmed in red leather with black carpets and a beige cloth headlining, its 2+2 interior also boasts vanity lights, tinted sun visors and wood veneer inserts to its dashboard / door cappings. Originally supplied as a 'special equipment plus C-type cylinder head' car (or so the 'S' in its quoted chassis number would indicate), it rides on painted wire wheels and wears 'C-type' camshaft covers. Benefiting from an electric cooling fan and manual transmission, its odometer shows an erroneous 01281 miles. Stored in a carefully climate-controlled environment for the last few years, it will require re-commissioning prior to road use. Though, it is hoped to be running by the time of sale.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has a lazy fuel pump.
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