Description
This car is Lot 116 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at The Bond Street Sale 12 December, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th December 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at 101 New Bond Street, London.
Lot 116
1952 Jaguar XK120 Roadster
Registration no. not UK registered
Chassis no. 672276
Left-hand drive
Delivered new to the USA
Fully restored in Europe 2016/ 2017
Numerous desirable upgrades
Present ownership since 2018
'On the button' and ready to enjoy
"We claimed 120 mph (for the XK 120), a speed unheard of for a production car in those days." - William Heynes, Chief Engineer, Jaguar Cars.
Conceived and constructed in just a few months, the XK120 debuted at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show where the stunning looking roadster caused a sensation. Conceived as a low-volume model, the XK120 proved considerably more popular than expected, the resulting demand for what was then the world's fastest production car taking Jaguar by surprise. It was immediately obvious that the ash-framed alloy coachwork would have to go and the body was swiftly re-engineered in steel.
The '120' referred to the car's top speed, which was confirmed when a carefully prepared example achieved 126. 4mph with hood and side screens erected and 132. 6mph minus its weather protection and equipped with an under-tray. The XK120 set new standards of comfort, roadholding and performance for British sports cars and, in keeping with the Jaguar tradition, there was nothing to touch it at the price. From launch until production ended in 1954, its popularity never slackened, especially in overseas markets that took over 85% of total output.
Chassis number '672276' was built in left-hand drive configuration and delivered new to the USA. Subsequently the car was imported into Holland and treated to a ground upwards restoration to 'Le Mans' specification circa 2016/ 2017. Improvements incorporated include a Getrag five-speed gearbox, four-wheel disc brakes, aero screens, Guy Broad extended pedal box conversion, dual exhaust system, steering column moved forwards, period-style bucket sets, and retractable harness-type seat belts. In short: the car has been tastefully modified for fast road use and will now comfortably accommodate a 6' 4" driver. A full photographic record of the restoration is on file. The XK is finished in Le Mans Green with tan leather interior and currently displays a total of 1, 038 miles on the odometer, which is presumed to be the distance travelled since restoration.
Our UK based vendor purchased the XK at a Monaco auction in 2018. The Jaguar was shown at the Salon Privé concours in 2018 and has formed part of a static display ever since and has not been UK registered. It benefits from a recent service and is 'on the button' and ready to partake in next season's historic rallies and other events.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
