Description
This stunning ‘1952 Jaguar XK120 SE Fixed-Head Coupe’ is a sought after Special Equipment model. Finished in Black with Red Leather, Equipped with period driving lamps, front disc brakes, Turino 16” stainless steel wire wheels, Jaguar two-eared spinners,
This car was dispatched from the factory on the 9th October 1952 and supplied new by Jaguar Dealer, Hoffmans of New York on the 1st January 1953 to a Mr W.S Abbott,
This is a matching numbers car and comes with a healthy provenance file including a Jaguar Operating and Maintenance Service Handbook and a Jaguar Heritage Certificate.
This exceptional XK120 has covered under 500 miles since a comprehensive £140,000 restoration, which is fully recorded in the history file. Featured with us at the 2022 Mille Miglia.
Jaguar XK120: A Timeless Classic that Redefined Sports Cars
The Jaguar XK120 holds a special place in automotive history as one of the most iconic and influential sports cars ever produced. Born out of Jaguar's racing heritage and unveiled to the world in 1948, the XK120 captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its stunning design, impressive performance, and accessible price tag. Today, it stands as a symbol of British automotive excellence and a timeless classic that continues to captivate car enthusiasts around the world.
The Jaguar XK120 was a revolutionary car for its time. Its sleek and aerodynamic body, designed by Sir William Lyons, turned heads and set new standards for automotive design. The long bonnet, flowing lines, and distinctive curves gave the XK120 an elegant and dynamic appearance that remains breathtaking to this day. The car's name was derived from its top speed, which was an impressive 120 miles per hour, making it the fastest production car of its era.
Under the bonnet, the XK120 was powered by a 3.4-liter inline-six engine that produced 160 horsepower. This engine was derived from the one used in the Jaguar XJ-S race car and was a masterpiece of engineering. It featured dual overhead camshafts and hemispherical combustion chambers, delivering smooth power and a thrilling driving experience. The XK120's performance capabilities were further enhanced by its lightweight construction and advanced suspension system, which provided excellent handling and precise steering.
The XK120 Roadster, with its fully retractable hood, quickly became the most popular variant of the model. It offered an exhilarating open-top driving experience, allowing drivers to feel the wind in their hair as they unleashed the car's power on the open road. The XK120 also featured luxurious interiors, with sumptuous leather seats, elegant wood trim, and a classic dashboard layout that exuded timeless style and sophistication.
Not only was the XK120 a sensation on the road, but it also made a name for itself on the racetrack. Jaguar recognized the marketing potential of motorsports and entered the XK120 in various racing events, achieving remarkable success. The car's performance and reliability made it a force to be reckoned with, earning victories in prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Alpine Rally. These racing triumphs helped solidify Jaguar's reputation as a formidable competitor in the world of motorsports and added to the XK120's mystique.
While the original XK120 production run lasted until 1954, the car's legacy continued to evolve. Jaguar introduced the XK140 in 1954, followed by the XK150 in 1957, both building upon the XK120's success and pushing the boundaries of performance and design even further.
Today, the Jaguar XK120 remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its timeless design, exhilarating performance, and historical significance make it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to own one. Restored examples continue to grace prestigious car shows and concours events, where they showcase their enduring beauty and showcase Jaguar's enduring legacy.
The Jaguar XK120 is not merely a car; it is a symbol of automotive excellence and a testament to Jaguar's commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. It paved the way for future Jaguar sports cars and left an indelible mark on the history of the brand. Driving an XK120 is an experience that evokes a sense of nostalgia, connecting drivers to a bygone era of classic motoring.
Whether admired for its elegant aesthetics, exhilarating performance, or its significant place in automotive history, the Jaguar XK120 is a true masterpiece that continues to inspire admiration and awe. It embodies the spirit of classic sports cars and represents an era of automotive excellence that will forever be cherished by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.