1955 Jaguar XK140 SE Roadster

Lot details
Registration No: PSY 400
Chassis No: S811937DN
Mot Expiry: Exempt

- In the current ownership since 1996, ex-USA converted to RHD

- C-Type head, stainless exhaust, Grey with Red leather

- Louvred bonnet, spare bucket seats included, highly useable example

Launched at the 1954 Motor Show, the XK140 boasted the same bewitching styling as its forebear allied to a host of mechanical improvements. Chief among these was the adoption of rack and pinion steering and the fitment of telescopic shock absorbers to improve roadholding. With engine and bulkhead repositioned further forward, the model enjoyed a notably roomier cabin. Available in 'standard' or 'special equipment' guises, the XK140 was among the fastest cars of its generation. For many the most desirable variant, the Roadster accounted for some 3,350 sales during its four-year production.

This Special Equipment example with overdrive was, according to a letter on file from Jaguar dated 1988, originally finished in Pastel Blue with Red leather, manufactured on 13 December 1955 and supplied to a Charles Johnston of Fort Knox, Kentucky via Jaguar Cars New York. At some point during its residency in the US the engine was replaced before it was imported to the UK around 1988 and converted to righthand drive. Acquired by the vendor in 1996, we are informed the car was treated to a thorough restoration immediately following its purchase and that the engine has been overhauled by Sigma Engineering during his custodianship. Improvements have continued to be incorporated over the years including stainless steel silencers by Sigma Engineering (2004), Coopercraft XK150 brakes (2004), louvred bonnet, new hood and sidescreens by GB Classic Trim (2010) and refreshing of the bodywork by RPS Bodyworks (2014), for which invoices are on file. The interior has also been retrimmed whilst service work has been carried out by specialists including Twyford Moors. Finished in Grey with Red leather interior, this most attractive and useable XK140 with C-Type head is accompanied by a Swansea V5c, sundry invoices and assorted MoTs back to 1996. Last MoT'd in 2017 (c.300 miles ago) a spare pair of bucket seats are included.