To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia
Island event, 8 - 9 March 2019.
Estimate:
$80,000 - $100,000
- Beautifully patinaed, highly original survivor
- Attractive two-tone red and cream leather interior
- Documented with Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate
- Includes side curtains, spare tire, and jack
Designed and constructed in but a few months, the Jaguar XK 120
debuted at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show where the stunning
roadster caused a sensation. The resulting demand for what was then
the world's fastest production car took Jaguar by surprise. It was
immediately obvious that the slow-to-produce alloy bodywork would
have to go, and the car was swiftly re-engineered in steel. The
work of Jaguar chief William Lyons himself, the XK 120 is widely
considered one of the most beautiful shapes ever to grace an
automobile. Amazingly, the body was originally conceived as a
coach-built aluminum structure for the simple reason that Jaguar
expected to sell no more than 200 examples in the first year!
At the center of the XK 120 was, of course, the fabulous XK engine,
the 3.4-liter inline six-cylinder embodying the best of modern
design. The engine boasted twin overhead camshafts running in an
aluminum-alloy cylinder head, seven main bearings, and a maximum
output of 160 bhp. The XK 120 was a genuine 120-mph car capable of
sustained high-speed cruising. The XK 120 set new standards for
comfort, road-holding, and performance for British sports cars. In
keeping with the Jaguar tradition, there was simply nothing that
could touch it for the price.
This XK 120 roadster was completed on 17 June 1953 and delivered to
North America through the legendary Max Hoffman Jaguar distributors
in New York City. The car remains today in highly original
condition having never been fully restored, including the two-tone
red and cream leather interior. It is powered by its
numbers-matching engine backed by a four-speed manual transmission.
A black convertible top is included along with removable side
curtains, spare wheel and tire, and an original jack and spanner.
Well-presented and full of old-world character and charm, this XK
120 is a delight to admire and an absolute pleasure to drive.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19.
