1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster

Lot details
Registration No: TSU 185
Chassis No: 660672
Mot Expiry: Aug 2007

Famously built as a mere showcase for Jaguar's new 3,442cc XK twin-cam straight-six engine, the XK120 Roadster caused a sensation when it was unveiled at the 1948 London Motor Show. Literally flooded with orders, Jaguar began limited hand-built production soon thereafter (although, it was not until 1950 that the factory was sufficiently 'tooled-up' to discard aluminium in favour of steel for the curvaceous bodywork). Utilising a shortened MKVII chassis, the lithe XK120 possessed exceptional performance and road holding compared to its peers. Such dynamic excellence was rewarded with victory in the 1950 RAC TT at the hands of Sir Stirling Moss and first place in the 1950 Alpine Trial. The following year brought two Alpine Cups and wins in the RAC, Tulip and Liege-Rome-Liege Rallies.
Finished in metallic blue with two-tone blue leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (four-speed manual gearbox, chassis, bodywork, wheels / tyres) or "rebuilt" (3442cc engine, electrical equipment) condition. While, he considers the Jaguar's paintwork and interior trim to be in keeping with an "older restoration". Reportedly "a genuine UK right-hand drive car" that was "first registered on 15th February 1951" chassis number 660672 is thought to have been supplied to "special order" via Henlys of Manchester. Apparently a gift from Sir Anthony Bamford (of JCB fame) to its previous keeper (a mechanic in his employ), 'TSU 185' is said to have covered just 650 miles since being extensively restored by the seller during 1998. Believed to be to original specification throughout, this attractive XK is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until June 9th 2007.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has an MOT until August 2007.