This is a barn-find, all-numbers matching 1954 Jaguar XK120 SE
Roadster (OTS) that runs and drives brilliantly and had been
enjoyed by its last owner of 42 years. We almost never offer
"project cars" as they rarely excite us. This is an exception
because it is a nice solid original example of the rare
high-performance Special Equipment (SE) that we have mechanically
recommissioned to remove the risk for its buyer. This was
originally built in the very rare color combination of Lavender
Gray with Red Leather and a Fawn convertible top. This all-numbers
matching example can be enjoyed as a survivor as-is or returned to
its original splendor. This would be a wonderful car to enjoy on
the Copperstate 1000 or the Mille Miglia. The competition-oriented
Special Equipment (SE) version (also called the M version for
"Modified" in the United States) used the 3,442-cc, twin SU
H8-carbureted DOHC inline-six engine that revved 400 RPM higher to
5,800 RPM and made 180 hp and 203-lb.ft. of torque, respectively 20
and eight more than standard, thanks to an 8:1 compression ratio
(up from 7:1), high-lift camshafts, a unique crankshaft damper,
dual exhaust and a lightened flywheel. This XK120 SE was built by
the factory on the 8th of February, 1954 and was dispatched to its
original distributor, Hoffman Motor Car Co. in New York on the 15th
of February. The MSRP was $3,545. The early history is not known,
however, Ivan Cotterill acquired this Jaguar just before March 21,
1979. Mr. Cotterill lived in Worthington, OH and immediately joined
the Jaguar Association of Central Ohio. The history and
authenticity are confirmed by not one, but two Jaguar Heritage
Trust Certificates. One was ordered by Mr. Cotterill in March of
1979 and then a new, more thorough Certificate from December of
2021. The Certificates confirm that this is a rare SE and that the
chassis, engine, body, gearbox are all original to the car. The
livery is completed in an aqua blue that was likely painted in the
1970's. There are numerous small dents and scratches from use and
storage. This is the first and only car that we have not bothered
to detail; instead leaving it dusty and dirty. There is a little
rust showing on the passenger side body that would be a relatively
easy repair. Overall, this has little rust with the exception of
normal surface rust on its chassis. The SE's were delivered with
the wire wheels with the winged knock offs. This Jaguar has the
silver painted wire wheels, but the wires could be in the body
color, silver or chrome. The tires are exceptionally old but we
left them on the car to keep it in "as-found" condition. A black
vinyl convertible top and its side curtains are all present. The
interior is finished in a black and teal vinyl with black
carpeting. The dashboard looks original in its black vinyl. The
steering wheel is also original and in good condition. The engine
compartment is where the magic lies. The matching numbers (Engine
No. F 1836-8S) confirms that it is the original 3.4-liter DOHC
inline-six producing 180 hp with its matching numbers four-speed
manual transmission. In recommissioning the Jaguar, we rebuilt the
carburetors, changed all of its fluids and rebuilt the master and
wheel cylinders. This allows us to drive her locally and have some
fun with her. The odometer states 74,000 miles, which we assume to
be the correct total accumulated mileage. The oil pressure is
excellent, she runs at a terrific temperature even in 100 degree
weather and she doesn't emit any smoke. She has great power and is
a blast to drive. The exhaust is disconnected before the muffler so
she sounds like a racecar, making it even more exciting. We decided
to keep her that way for the videos, just to enhance the
experience! The chassis at some point was sprayed with a primer to
prevent rust. In 1979, Mr. Cotterill replaced the sill plates.
Overall, the chassis and body have limited rust and the Jaguar
would make for a straightforward restoration. This Jaguar comes
complete with its convertible top, side curtains, two original
Jaguar Heritage Certificates, some historical documentation and
some tools. The Hagerty Values for the XK120 SE Roadster are
$102,000 in No. 3 "Good Condition" and $64,100 in No. 4 "Fair
Condition". For questions or more details, please call, text or
email Harry Clark at 1.602.245.7200 or
[email protected]
The Jaguar is in our Phoenix showroom.
