Description
This 1950 Jaguar XK120 Roadster is quite something. Originally prepared by XK specialist Guy Broad for the 2013 Peking to Paris Motor Challenge, this XK120 competed in the grueling 12, 000-kilometer event, where it faced extreme conditions and gained valuable experience. This experience directly informed a series of upgrades carried out during an extensive rebuild by Rectory Classics (2013-2014). Since then, the car has proven its reliability by completing two Moroccan rallies without fault.
Provenance & Early History
- Built on 13 April 1950 as a LHD open two-seater, this XK120 rolled off the production line finished in Birch Grey with a red interior.
- Initially dispatched to Hornburg in Los Angeles, it later spent time in Arizona, where its dry climate preserved its rust-free condition—making it an ideal candidate for a rally conversion.
- Repatriated to the UK in 2008, it caught the eye of Guy Broad, who transformed it into a rally-ready contender.
Guy Broad’s Rally Preparation
- For the Peking to Paris challenge, Guy Broad stripped the car right back and rebuilt it with a host of rally-specific upgrades and improvements:
- Chassis & Suspension: Seam-welded chassis, reinforced mounts, rack-and-pinion steering, telescopic rear shock absorbers, adjustable AVO dampers, heavy-duty springs, and polyurethane bushes for durability.
- Engine & Drivetrain: The 3. 4-litre inline-six was upgraded with competition internals, twin HD8 SU carburettors, a Cosworth 5-speed gearbox, an 80 Amp alternator, electronic ignition, and a lightweight steel flywheel.
- Brakes & Axle: Front disc brakes, heavy-duty rear drums with servo assistance, and a Salisbury axle with competition hubs for increased stopping power and strength.
- Cooling: Aluminium radiator, oil cooler, and electric fan to keep it running cool under pressure.
- Interior: Broadsport bucket seats with four-point harnesses, Brantz rally timers, an FIA battery switch, and a bespoke tonneau cover for driver comfort and safety.
Rectory Classics Rebuild
- After returning from its Peking to Paris debut, Rectory Classics were entrusted to fully recommission the car and improve it even further with several additional modifications:
- Engine: Re-bored block, new pistons, reground crankshaft, new valve guides, and balanced components for peak performance.
- Bodywork: Repaired inner wings, reshaped bonnet, new battery tray, and modified bonnet hinges to ensure structural integrity.
- Rally Upgrades: A custom dust box with a Range Rover air filter, secured dipstick, and filtered breathers for the fuel tank and differential to combat dust ingress; a lightweight sacrificial plate with cooling holes for underside protection; and detachable fuel tanks for extended range.
- These upgrades reflect lessons learned from the 2013 rally, ensuring the car thrives in extreme conditions like dust, heat, and long-distance strain.
Current Condition
- Now registered in France (previously UK-registered as “188 XUK”), this XK120 sports a stunning livery inspired by early 1950s SCCA race cars, hand-painted by a skilled signwriter for a distinctive, period-appropriate look.
- We recently drove the car all the way from Toulon to Bicester in just two days—a testament to its faultless performance and ability to cruise comfortably at over 90 mph.
- How many 75 year old cars look this good, go this well, and can happily cruise at 90+mph all day long? There can’t be many…!
READY TO RALLY
- With its proven track record and thoughtfully engineered modifications, this XK120 is tailor-made for Hero-ERA’s long-distance events, such as the Peking to Paris, Badawi Trail, or Gaucho Trail.
- Its combination of rugged durability, rally-specific features, and timeless Jaguar elegance makes it a standout choice for any serious historic rally enthusiast.
