Vehicle Description
Jaguar engineers were wise to take an evolutionary approach to the
replacement for the XK120, due for the 1953 model year. After all,
the XK120's formula for success proved itself well, so it was best
to stick with what worked. The XK120 established Jaguar's place in
the all-important American market, endearing itself to club racers
and boulevard cruisers alike with its gorgeous styling, exotic
twin-cam engine, and competitive price point. The replacement XK140
set out to maintain the positive aspects while addressing some of
the criticisms of the old model. The outwardly similar XK140
featured larger, full-width chrome bumpers that were more practical
and consistent with contemporary style. Other minor styling tweaks
included chrome strips on the bonnet and boot lid and a slightly
revised grille design. New badges proudly boasted the C-Type's
success at the Le Mans 24 hour race. On the surface, one could
mistake the XK140 as just a superficial update on its predecessor,
yet it was indeed a vastly improved car. Addressing customer
criticisms about the XK120's relative lack of comfort, the XK140's
engine, dash, and firewall were moved forward by three inches. On
open cars, a single 12-volt battery in the right front wheel well
replaced the rear-mounted twin 6-volt units of before. This change
freed up space behind the seats, thus allowing for longer
seat-sliders. Engineers also ditched the XK120's worm and sector
steering box in favor of a quick and precise rack-and-pinion
arrangement. In addition, Jaguar replaced the lever-action dampers
with modern telescopic-type dampers that gave superior wheel
control and suspension travel. Lockheed four-wheel drum brakes were
retained, but with a revised master cylinder. Lastly, the superb
double-overhead-cam inline-six saw improvements to power and
flexibility. The base XK140 used the 190 horsepower 3.4-liter unit
previously reserved for the outgoing top-spec XK120 M (aka "Special
Equipment"). 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. The XK140 balances the beauty of the XK120 with increased
power, better handling, and a more comfortable cockpit, making it
an ideal choice for historic rally events and relaxed touring. This
handsome XK140 OTS is a well-sorted example, recently out of the
long-term stewardship of a passionate Jaguar collector. This
desirable late-production open two-seat roadster was built in
December 1956 and is 171 cars from the end of the XK140 line. An
original US-market example, this XK presents in its original color
of cream with rarely-seen steel disc wheels, rear-wheel spats, and
a period-correct aftermarket hardtop with custom side curtains. In
the most recent ownership, the car received extensive servicing and
restoration work and presents in fine order, suitable to enjoy on
the road and in club events. The Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust
certificate shows the first owner was Mr. Grenville Seibals of
Columbia, South Carolina. It is a standard car, with the 190
horsepower XK engine, finished from new in cream over a red
interior. The most recent owner acquired the car around 2010 and
began the process of sorting it for road use, documenting the
process through a large stack of receipts. It presents in tidy
order, looking particularly elegant thanks to the factory disc
wheels, wide-whitewall Firestone bias-ply tires, rear spats, and
rare steel hardtop. The cream paintwork suits the spec nicely and
is in good overall condition with just a minor blemish or two noted
on close inspection. The exterior brightwork and chrome pieces are
all in excellent order, showing some slight hazing on the bumpers
but with overall consistent, high-quality plating all around.
Similarly, the wheels and wheel trims are in good condition, noting
just a few small touchups in the paint. In 2012, the interior was
restored in black leather, with factory-correct materials sourced
from Jaguar specialist shops OSJI and BAS Ltd. The seats are in
excellent order, with lovely black leather showing only the
slightest creasing from light use. The upholstered instrument panel
was unique to the most sporting OTS models, as coupes and dropheads
had a more elaborate wood dash. Features include correct-type
instruments, switches, and an original-style four-spoke steering
wheel. The steel hardtop has a black upholstered lining and
attaches via the factory clips and latches, so it remains secure.
The owner recently commissioned a set of custom aluminum side
curtains to match the top to complete the unique look. The
3.4-liter XK inline-six is the original, numbers-matching unit with
the original head. It wears proper dual SU carburetors, polished
alloy cam covers, and is well-detailed with mostly correct hardware
and fittings. Receipts reflect a good deal of sorting and fettling
to ensure the car is well-prepared for road use, and it runs and
drives very well. A full stainless steel dual exhaust system was
added for better flow and to enhance that signature twin-cam
soundtrack. The combination of its unique and stylish period
hardtop, the skirted rear wings, and understated color lend this
XK140 OTS a particularly elegant presence. It is a beautiful
example for enjoyable motoring, dialed-in by a marque specialist,
with special features sure to please a discerning Jaguar
enthusiast. Offers welcome and trades considered For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6611-1957-jaguar-xk140-roadster/
