1954 Jaguar XK140 Drop Head Coupe


Details

The Jaguar XK120 was launched in 1948 at the London Motor Show. It caused a sensation, which persuaded Jaguar founder and design boss William Lyons to put it into production. It was Jaguar’s first sports car since the SS 100, which ceased production in 1940. The “120″ in its name referred to its 120 mph top speed, which made the XK120 the world’s fastest production car in its day. It was available in two open versions, first as the roadster (designated OTS, for open two-seater), then also as a drophead coupé (DHC) from 1953. The car was also available as a closed or fixed head coupé (FHC) from 1951.

The XK120 was succeeded by the XK140 which was launched in late 1954 and sold through until 1957. Whilst the XK140 looked similar to the XK120 there were in fact many subtle and indeed important differences. The XK140 featured a more spacious cabin and had improved brakes, suspension and steering. Visually the car had American style bumpers with overriders, a different grille (that had fewer, thicker vertical bars), a chrome strip on the bonnet & boot and an emblem “Jaguar Winner Le Mans 1951-3” on the boot also. Like the XK120 the XK140 was offered in three body style being the roadster, drop head coupe and fixed head coupe.

We are delighted to offer this fabulous, fully restored, concours condition 1954 Jaguar XK140 Drop Head Coupe. This particular car being chassis number 817094, engine number G8197-8 and body number P3098 is understood to be fully matching numbers and delivered new to the USA. Not much is known of its early history, however, it found its way to New Zealand where it was meticulously restored. During the restoration the car has been converted to right hand drive. The car was owned by a Mr Dave Hayward of Waihi, just south of Auckland and sold from his estate by Dunbar Sloane Classic Car Auctions in May 2006. The current owner purchased the car from the Dunbar Sloane auction and at the time the car was stated as having travelled less than 1,000 miles since a full restoration. In the custodianship of the current owner the car has been used sparingly and has probably travelled less than 1,000 miles since being acquired. The car has been fully maintained by marque experts in Brisbane and today it presents and drives fabulously . . . like a new restoration.

This car would be a serious contender at any concours d’elegance. The colour (which the owner has been told is Jaguar light blue) is absolutely stunning and the grey interior with blue carpets are a beautiful contrast. The soft top is dark blue.

The paintwork, chrome, trim and overall presentation of the car is stunning. The interior trim, carpets, soft top and bur walnut facings are like new.

The car some modern improvements including an aluminium radiator with electronic fans and electronic ignition. The jack and wheel hammer accompany the car.

Just a stunning car!


Specification

  • Jaguar
  • 1954
  • Coupe
  • Manual
  • 68850 Miles
  • 3442 cc

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