Lot details
Registration No: 250 UXO
Chassis No: D/MA804291
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 140mph, 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).
It has long been a pub conversation that 'surely all the barns have been empted' but it seems not as we still keep on finding them. The present owner purchased this particular XK some time in the 1970's, shortly after which the seats were re-connollised and it was painted white. It was last taxed in 1980 and since then it has resided in a dry and well ventilated barn and is described as being virtually complete with only the odd incidental item missing such as the boot badge and one rear over-rider. The bodywork is in good shape but the paintwork is now poor and we are informed that the engine is not running and there is no brake pressure and so we must sell this example as 'for restoration'. The registration number on the car when purchased was 250UXO, which is being retained by the owner for personal reasons and the cherished number retention application has been made. Therefore we shall advise the new owner of the registration as and when this is known to us and pass on the new logbook as soon as it arrives - which may indeed be by the time of the sale.