Lot details Registration No: DJD 870 Chassis No: 660240 Mot Expiry: Exempt
- Period competition history including Land's End Trial
- Red with Red/Biscuit interior
- Broadsport 5 speed gearbox and other upgrades
Launched at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the Jaguar XK120 Roadster caused a sensation. Penned by Sir William Lyons, the model's sensuous lines seemed almost impossibly glamorous to a country still under rationing. Flooded with orders, Jaguar began limited hand-built production soon thereafter (it was not until 1950 that the factory was sufficiently 'tooled-up' to discard aluminium in favour of steel for the curvaceous bodywork). Based around a cruciform-braced box-section chassis equipped with independent torsion-bar front suspension, a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle and hydraulic drum brakes, the lithe two-seater proved equally adept on road or track winning both the RAC TT and Alpine Trial during 1950. Developing some 160bhp and 190lbft of torque in standard tune, its legendary 3442cc DOHC straight-six engine was allied to four-speed manual transmission.
Any Jaguar XK120 Roadster is a desirable car but those boasting period competition history are particularly sought after. This right-hand drive example was supplied new via Henlys of London during November 1950. Migrating to Cornwall thereafter, the two-seater was campaigned by amateur racing driver and power boat helmsman David A. Kempthorne-Ley Esq in a variety of events. As well as taking class honours at the August 3rd 1959 Trengwainton Speed Hill Climb, it contested the gruelling Land's End Trial some two years later. Extensively restored by A.B. Price between 1988 and 1995 sporting an extensively overhauled replacement engine, the Jaguar was further improved by the previous owner. Upgraded with a Broadsport five-speed manual gearbox, 9.5-inch diaphragm clutch, halogen headlamps and front disc brakes, it was also treated to a bare metal respray by Body Beautiful Cars Ltd in 2011.
Finished in red with red / biscuit interior DJD 870 has been used sparingly whilst in the vendor's care and benefits from a recent service including the fitment of two new six volt batteries.
PLEASE NOTE: The original gearbox and hubs are available for collection from the vendor by the successful purchaser.
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