1955 Jaguar XK140 Fixed Head Coupe

Lot details
Registration No: NSG 337
Chassis No: 804350DN
Mot Expiry: Exempt

- A home-market RHD example, first registered 4-11-1955

- Extensively restored and overhauled in 1999 which included a newly-trimmed cream leather interior

- More recently the subject of some subtle upgrades including the fitment of a brake servo, electronic ignition and a high-torque starter motor

- Offered with a comprehensive history file that includes a Heritage certificate, workshop manual, a spare set of keys and a large quantity of old bills

Launched at the 1954 Motor Show, the XK140 boasted the same bewitching styling as its forebear but allied it to a host of 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 a quoted 190bhp/210lbft to 210bhp/213lbft. Distinguished by its one-piece bumpers and simpler, more imposing radiator grille, 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).

Described by the vendor as being in `very good' (engine, electrical equipment and transmission), `excellent' (bodywork and interior trim) condition and 'good' with regard to the car's British Racing Green paintwork; there are invoices on file for major restoration work carried out between 1989 and 1996 which included a newly-trimmed cream leather interior, mechanical overhaul and bare-metal respray. More recently the subject of some subtle upgrades including the fitment of a brake servo, electronic ignition and a high-torque starter motor to enhance its usability in modern traffic. One of just 843 right-hand drive examples made, this desirable `home market' Fixed Head Coupe was first registered 4-11-1955 and is offered with a comprehensive history file that includes a Heritage certificate, workshop manual, a spare set of keys and a large quantity of old bills.