Vehicle Description
From 1948 through 1954, the brilliant XK120 firmly established
Jaguar at the forefront of sports-car manufacturers with its
graceful bodylines and impressive performance. Featuring Jaguar's
DOHC 'XK' inline six-cylinder engine, the XK120 was the first
series-production sports car to be equipped with such a
sophisticated powerplant. Competition success was immediate on both
sides of the Atlantic, with the new 'XK' victorious in circuit
races and the arduous long-distance rallies of the era. It also
propelled young, up-and-coming drivers to victory lane, including
Stirling Moss and eventual Grand Prix World Champion, Phil Hill.
While approximately 12,000 XK120s were produced, its sound original
design could easily be improved and updated. The refined XK140
arrived in late 1954 with comprehensive improvements - some derived
from Jaguar's racing program - that were designed to overcome the
few shortcomings of its predecessor while maintaining the sleek
Jaguar's strong sales appeal, especially in the crucial U.S.
sports-car market. Among the upgrades applied to the XK140, most
notable among them were the welcome addition of precise rack and
pinion steering, hydraulic shock absorbers, improved brakes, and
upgraded engine cooling. Greater passenger comfort and legroom were
facilitated by more forward engine placement and relocating the
battery to the engine bay. While the basic 102-inch wheelbase
remained unchanged, overall length and width were increased. Body
styling was only subtly updated for the XK140, with the widely
acclaimed basic design cues of the XK120 thankfully left intact.
The most popular XK140 model in America remained the OTS (open
two-seater), commonly called the Roadster, and according to marque
authorities, of merely 3,350 XK140 roadsters built, only 49 were
sold in the British Home Market. Priced in the USA from $3,745, the
cars continued to provide Jaguar's characteristically excellent
performance and startling value for the money, consistent with
Jaguar founder William (later Sir William) Lyons' proven "Grace,
pace, and space" maxim. Bearing Chassis Number S811871, this
visually stunning and highly desirable 1956 Jaguar XK140 OTS is an
original high-specification SE (Special Equipment) model,
alternatively known in the USA as the "MC," which delivered 20
extra horsepower (210 bhp total) via the high-performance C-Type
cylinder head and 2-inch sand-cast S.U. H8 carburetors, supported
by beefier torsion bars and dual exhaust pipes. This outstanding
XK140 has been treated to a meticulous and detailed restoration
performed by the respected marque specialists at JK Restorations in
Oswego, Illinois. Finished in a breathtaking color combination of
Maroon over Dark Tan leather upholstery, the XK140 has been
comprehensively updated for fast road enjoyment with a later-model
3.8-liter 'XK' inline-six, fully rebuilt and tuned with a C-Type
cylinder head and matched to an upgraded Tremec 5-speed gearbox
unlocking exceptional performance, with improved stopping power via
four-wheel disc brakes. Paint quality is superb, applied to
straight and meticulously aligned panels. Brightwork has also been
completely restored, and the car retains an authentic appearance
thanks to correct XK140 bumpers, Lucas head and fog lamps, and
chrome knock-off wire wheels. The wheels are shod with Vredestein
Sprint Classic radials for excellent ride and handling
characteristics. While restored and upgraded for fast touring, the
XK140 is accompanied by the original and unrestored, numbers
matching 3.4-liter engine and four-speed manual gearbox for the
purist. A factory tool roll, unrestored side curtains, mounted
spare wheel/tire, roadside jack, and wheel tools are also included
with the sale of the vehicle. The added grunt of the 3.8-litre
engine and quick-shifting 5-speed make it an absolute joy to drive.
Beautifully dialed-in, this is simply one of the best-sorted, most
enjoyable Jaguar XKs we've ever experienced. This choice XK140 OTS
is a fabulous performer and certain to thrill its next custodian on
a wide range of prestigious driving events, including the
California Mille and Colorado Grand. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7339-1956-jaguar-xk-140-mc-roadster/
