1957 Jaguar XK140 MC FHC
Chassis No. S815890
Engine No. G9416-8S
Body No. J6725
Final Model Year, Top Specification "SE/MC" XK140
Special Equipment Model w/ C-Type Engine Head
Featuring Wire Wheels, Dual Exhaust, Twin SU H8 Carburetors, 210
bhp
Numbers-Matching Engine (Head & Block), as verified by Jaguar
Heritage Trust
1 of 2800 Fixed-head Coupes Produced from 1954-1957
Known Ownership, with Extensive Records, History & Invoices from
1975-Present
An Event-Proven Example, Thoughtfully Prepared for Vintage
Touring
Recipient of a Winter 2020 Inspection & Scheduled Major Service
A Spirited Jaguar, Offering Boundless Opportunities for its Next
Caretaker!
By 1954, the XK120 became the XK140, offering notable improvements
including more legroom, increased horsepower, rack and pinion
steering, telescoping shock absorbers, and improved brakes.
Importantly, Jaguar offered a range of performance options
including the SE model, which could include the competition-derived
"C-Type" cylinder head, designated as the "MC". The SE - Special
Equipment, came with wire wheels, dual exhaust, fog lamps, and
larger carburetors, all of which resulted in 20 more
horsepower.
S815890, a 1957 XK140 MC Fixed-head Coupe, was completed on
November 7, 1956 - finished in Black over Red upholstery, and
dispatched on November 16, 1956 through Jaguar Cars, New York.
Robert Grant of Tucson, Arizona took delivery of the new XK140 on
December 31st 1956 as a gift for his wife. By 1975, the Jaguar had
found its way to Florida, where it remained until 2008.
Fortunately, the MC is accompanied by a large collection of records
dating back to 1975, with A. Recupero's purchase from J. Blesi in
December 1975. Subsequent invoices track servicing and upkeep to
the mid-1980's, as Recupero would ultimately own the Jaguar until
December 1999. Leading up to the 1999 sale, S815890 sat dormant in
garage storage for several years, upon which R. Glace, the 140's
next caretaker would commission a cosmetic and mechanical
restoration back to road worthiness.
Affectionately known as Felix by this time, the XK140 would receive
a "frame-off" restoration, while simultaneously being prepared for
future SCCA and VCCA Racing events. The restoration was completed
in July 2000. Upon completion, the Jaguar was displayed at the
2001Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance where it received the Amelia
Award, presented by John Sartees. At the event, the underside of
the bonnet was signed by Brock Yeats and David E. Davis. This was
immediately proceeded by the 1000 Forza Amelia. Multiple JCNA
events would also follow. Ultimately, the car was used for vintage
rallies, as opposed to track racing.
A fellow rallyist, F. Ehle of Oconomowoc, WI took ownership of the
MC from Glace in June 2008 and participated in the 2009 California
Mille.. Ehle would commission another freshening of the car shortly
after and further preparing it for distance and strenuous driving
events, while slightly reverting the Jaguar to a more sporty-stock
appearance. During this time, the engine was rebuilt (2010, JK
Restorations) and all systems were made reliable for road and rally
use. A driver quality paint job was applied in proper "Old English"
white, while refreshing some brightwork, fitting a wood-rimmed Moto
Lita steering wheel, and correcting various interior trim.
Today, the XK140MC continues to present as an ideal event car, with
mellowed cosmetics and strong mechanical prowess, and 51,800
recorded miles. The exterior's white finish shows light blending
and age in areas while displaying a nice patina overall. The engine
and underside have been steam cleaned and detailed and show
evidence of the much recent mechanical freshening performed. The
presentation is complimented by deep red cabin upholstery, with
leather bonnet strap, rally clocks on the dash, front bumper
delete, and black wire wheels for a period-style rally
appearance.
Additionally the engine compartment displays a very usable,
matching-numbers engine and head. Notable upgrades to the oiling
and ignition systems, along with an electric pusher fan enhance
usability and reliability for events. The luggage compartment is
trimmed with a matching red liner and spare wheel.
Behind the steering wheel feels comfortable, with authentic patina
to the leather trim and walnut veneer. The Jaguar performs well,
thanks to regular upkeep and a Winter 2020 inspection and scheduled
major service. This included new fluids and filters, rebuilt
radiator with new hoses, fuel hoses, brakes hoses and other rubber
components, clutch master cylinder, brake master cylinder and
reservoir, drum brake restoration kit, front suspension rebuild kit
and Spax shocks, engine mounts, carburetor rebuilds, Pertronix
ignition, new wiper motor assembly, arms and blades, and turn
signal switch. This was followed up with fresh Gloss Black
powdercoating on all 5 wheels, shod with 5 new and period correct
600-16 Pirelli Stella Bianca tires and Michelin tubes.
Whether casual touring, Cars & Coffee, or high-speed drives, this
event proven and genuine matching-numbers XK140 MC offers plenty of
exciting opportunities for its next caretaker. In addition to a
significant collection of records, history and invoices, S815890 is
accompanied by its professionally framed Jaguar Heritage Trust
Certificate (verifying all original numbers), Operating,
Maintenance and Service Handbook, car cover, older wood-rimmed
steering wheel, and spare tire assembly. As one of the most sought
after XK140s in Jaguar's lineup, this MC Coupe will certainly
command attention from marque enthusiasts. Now available for
worldwide purchase and delivery from our Houston, Texas
showroom.
Recorded Ownership:
R. Grant - Tucson, Arizona - November 6, 1956
J. Blesi - Fort Lauderdale, FL
A. Recupero / Colangelo - Fort Lauderdale, FL - December 4,
1975
R. Glace - Lake Worth, FL - December 1999
F. Ehle - Oconomowoc, WI - June 19, 2008
D. Randall - Blue Ridge, TX - February 13, 2017
$79,500.00
Offers/Trades Welcomed
To learn more about this vehicle, please contact our sales
department at (281) 497-1000 or
[email protected]
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