Vehicle Description
When the time came for Jaguar to follow up the sensational XK120 in
1953, they wisely took an evolutionary approach to its replacement.
The basic formula of the XK120 was a proven success - a two-place
sports car, with a powerful and exotic twin-cam engine, wrapped in
gorgeous, flowing bodywork. In designing the new XK140, Jaguar
engineers used the opportunity to address some of the primary
complaints with the 120, without sacrificing any of the beauty or
performance. The body received larger bumpers that were more
practical and up to date with contemporary style. Minor tweaks
included chrome strips on the bonnet and boot lid and revised
grille design. New badges proudly proclaimed the C-Type's success
at the LeMans 24 hour race. On the surface, the XK140 could be
mistaken as just a superficial update on its predecessor, yet it
was indeed a vastly improved car. Addressing customer complaints
about a lack of space in the XK120, the XK140's dash, firewall, and
the engine was moved forward by three inches. On open cars, a
single 12-volt battery replaced the twin 6-volt units. Also,
batteries were relocated to the right front wheel well, freeing up
additional space behind the seats. Engineers ditched the XK120's
worm and sector steering box in favor of a fast and precise
rack-and-pinion arrangement. In addition, Jaguar replced the lever
action dampers, with modern telescopic-type dampers that gave
superior wheel travel and control. Lockheed four-wheel drum brakes
were retained; however the master cylinder was updated. The
magnificent "XK" double overhead cam inline saw improvements to
power and flexibility. The XK140 used the top-spec 190 horsepower
3.4-liter unit from the XK120 M as a base. With the optional C-Type
cylinder head, that figure jumped to 210 hp. For the first time
ever, a three-speed automatic transmission supplied by Borg-Warner
was available as an option. Of the three generations of XK sports
cars, the XK140 had the lowest production, with just under 9,000
vehicles built in all body styles, as rapid development saw the
XK150 ushered in for 1957. Many fans prefer the XK140 as it
combines the beauty of the XK120 with the superior power, handling
and comfort of later models, making it an ideal choice for today's
enthusiasts who wish to enjoy their cars on rallies and tours. This
lovely 1956 XK140 M is a rare Drophead Coupe, exceptionally
well-optioned with the Special Equipment Package (also known as the
"M" in the US market), C-Type cylinder head, and the seldom-seen
Borg-Warner automatic transmission. The included Jaguar Daimler
Heritage Trust certificate shows this is an original US-market car,
delivered new to Jack and Norman Charney of Los Angeles, California
in 1956. Subsequent history is not documented, however, this Jaguar
eventually joined the famous Gene Ponder collection in Texas. The
Ponder Collection housed many significant automobiles, with a heavy
bias toward British sports cars, so this Jaguar was in good company
indeed. The initial restoration saw the car refinished in this
striking red livery over a black leather interior. It appears that
Mr. Ponder drove this car, and he had it sensibly upgraded with an
aluminum radiator, alloy expansion tank, and electric cooling fan
for worry-free touring in hot climates. In 2007, several
significant vehicles from the collection were sold, this car
included. The new owner, a Jaguar restorer and specialist, kept the
car for personal use. Over the past eleven years of ownership, the
current owner continually serviced, detailed and maintained this
XK140 to a very high standard. Finished in bright red over black (a
signature of many Ponder collection cars), this Jaguar presents in
excellent condition. The paintwork is quite attractive, with
beautiful, deep gloss and consistent panel fit. Complementing the
paint is outstanding brightwork and gorgeous chrome wire wheels and
whitewall Firestone tires. The Drophead Coupe combines the open-air
experience of the roadster with the luxurious trimmings of the
Fixed-head coupe. It shares the walnut dash and door caps with the
coupe, and roll-up windows and a fully lined hood provide a cozy
environment should the weather turn foul. This car features
excellent black leather seats and door cards. Black carpets were
renewed within the last few years in the current owner's care. In
2014, the wood was removed, stripped and restored by the renowned
experts at Madera Concepts in California. Around the same time, the
specialists at Nisonger Instrument rebuilt the tachometer and
clock. The interior is beautifully finished and finely presented
for touring, complete with an original Radiomobile radio and rare
tinted Perspex sun visors. A correct-type 3.4-liter XK inline six
is under the bonnet, topped with the original, numbers-matching
C-Type cylinder head. SU carburetors wear correct pancake-style air
cleaners, and the engine bay is very well detailed with lovely
polished cam covers, glass washer bottle, and proper wiring and
plumbing. Service records show the car was regularly serviced and
sorted to keep it in top running condition. In 2014, it received a
fresh timing chain, guides, and head gasket � while the additional
cooling capacity and electric fan pair well with the transmission
to make this XK140 an outstanding choice for long-distance touring.
In 2008, while in the stewardship of the current owner, this car
scored 997.1 points at a JCNA Concours event. Since then, a great
deal of work was done to keep it up to a high cosmetic standard,
while ensuring it remains usable, and enjoyable on the road. This
rare and desirable XK140 is an extremely nice example, ready to be
enjoyed on the road or in casual show settings.
