Highlights

Matching numbers example with original SE specification
Comprehensive nut and bolt restoration completed in 2023
Freshly painted in factory-accurate Pastel Blue
Accompanied by a substantial history file

The Appeal

Without a doubt, the XK120 has gone down in history as one of the most desirable classics out there. First designed purely to showcase the brand new XK powerplant - which would go on to become the keystone of the company's products for half a century - the car entered production only because it was so handsome, sweeping and distinguished.

The fact it was capable of a whopping 160bhp and a top speed of 120mph, of course, helped carve out the car's place on the market - truth be told, it made for a market-leading car. From the day that demo roadster hit the London Motor Show, Coventry's big bods rapidly realised they were sitting on a veritable hit.

50 years later, people still clamour for these luxurious, long-nosed cars - and we're very proud to present this example today.

Recently subject to a comprehensive restoration, the car has been brought up to factory standard with style, including a full repaint in its factory hue of Pastel Blue. It comes complete with an ample paperwork file and a detailed record of the restoration - as well as photographic proof of work undertaken in the USA. If you're after a particularly handsome example of one of Jaguar's finest, this is a great opportunity.

History and Paperwork

Built in 1954 for the US Market
Originally based in Los Angeles
Imported to the UK in 2020
Matching numbers example, verified by the Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate
Underwent a full nut and bolt restoration for £88,000 in 2023
Massive folder of work carried out in the States with photographic record
Full documentation of work undertaken in the UK
Original handbooks
Odometer was reset during the restoration
Not yet registered in the UK

The Condition

Bodywork is fully restored and looks in very good order
Freshly painted in original Pastel Blue last year
As a result, there's no sign of wear throughout the exterior
Chromework is still gleaming with well-presented badges and branding
Underside is solid, with only surface-level wear
Attractively presented soft top with no rips or tears
Original leather upholstery with no rips or tears
Carpets are brand new
Door cards and centre tunnel reupholstered in real leather
Dashboard features fresh wooden fascias, in very good order

The XK120's aesthetics are hard to top. Sweeping curves, gleaming chrome, and that rather beguiling pastel colour scheme all come together to create an undeniably pretty motor. The paintwork is still gleaming from its fresh restoration, and it appears to be a solid car, from the brand-new soft top to the beautifully presented wire-spoke wheels.

The cabin of an XK120 is rightfully praised as being downright palatial. Shining wooden veneers, plush leather seats and a bus-sized steering wheel are always bound to charm any enthusiast worth their salt, and this restored example is no exception. With fresh carpets, some replacement leather work and some new fascias, the car nonetheless carries a distinguished finish thanks to its original seats. The result is a car that hasn't lost an ounce of that classical appeal - but has gained plenty of longevity.

The Mechanics

3.4-litre XK DOHC straight-six
Four-speed manual gearbox
Engine bay in good order
Has been road-tested since the full rebuild

The XK engine was very much the unique selling point for the XK120. Not only did it make for a blisteringly fast car - it marked up the future of Jaguar's success in a very big way. This example has been comprehensively rebuilt, but still boasts plenty of originality. The engine, chassis and gearbox are all reportedly matching numbers - and we understand that the rebuild has been very sympathetic.

The vendor reports that the car is driving superbly since restoration, and we've no reports of any mechanical issues.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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