Vehicle Description
1957 Jaguar XK 140 MC Roadster
• Concours-quality restoration by a marque expert
• Discreet performance upgrades
• 5-speed gearbox upgraded conversion
• Disc brakes
The XK140 was manufactured by Jaguar between 1954 to 1957, the
successor to Jaguar's highly successful XK120. Upgrades include
better brakes, rack and pinion steering, increased suspension
travel, and modern tube-type shock absorbers. The interior was
improved for taller drivers with an addition of 3 inches of
legroom, as a result of relocating the engine, the firewall, and
the dash was moved forward. The car fitted with the C-type cylinder
head, 2-inch sand-cast H8 carburetors, heavier front torsion bars,
and twin exhaust pipes, was known in the UK as an XK140 SE. In
North America, it was popularly called an XK140 MC.
The XK140 was available in three body styles. The OTS (Open
Two-Seater) Roadster had a light canvas top assembly that when
lowered fit behind the seats and thus completely disappeared inside
the body. The XK140 OTS had removable canvas and plastic side
curtains. The DHC (Drop Head Coupe) had a permanently mounted
padded soft top that when lowered sat above and outside the body of
the car. It also had a fixed windscreen (unlike the removable
windscreen of the OTS).
The past owner purchased this XK140 in 2009 from a long-time owner
who had the Jaguar for the past 40 years, since 1969. A concours
restoration was done by XK's Unlimited in San Luis Obispo,
California over a 3-year period. Finished in a classic color
combination of Black with a Biscuit leather interior and a Black
soft top. The paint and bodywork are in perfect condition along
with the panel fit. The interior is immaculate with Wilton wool
carpets and Connolly leather. The original Smith gauges were
restored by West Valley Instrument Specialists, Inc in Reseda,
California. No expense was spared with receipts exceeding $100,000.
Everything was completely rebuilt. Chassis upgrades are also quite
extensive and include Wilwood front disc brakes, a manual 5-speed
full synchro transmission, a large alloy radiator, an alloy fuel
tank, and an alloy flywheel, which all add to the improvement of
the overall drivability. The quality of the restoration is very
apparent and even on the underside, which is fully detailed.
The engine was completely disassembled and stripped down to the
block, the block was then Magnaflux to check for any cracks and
then acid dipped. The machine work was done by Martin Davidsons
Automotive Machine shop. The crank was standard, and new bearings,
pistons, rods, and gaskets were installed. The 3.4 liter inline-6
is perfectly detailed, with the correct red cylinder head that was
unique to the C-Type engines. The 5-speed manual transmission has
full synchromesh with close ratios and a shorter throw for a smooth
shifting experience. Equipped with canvas soft top, side curtains,
16'' chrome wire wheels, and tonneau cover. Complete with tools,
books, extensive restoration receipts, and a spare wheel.
Well-equipped with numerous desirable options truly in outstanding
condition. Ready to enjoy on tours, taking on the challenge of
thousand-mile rallies, any vintage motoring event, or local
concours events.
Performance
• 3442cc displacement
• DOHC Straight-6
• Double SU H8 carburetors
• 210 bhp @ 5,750 RPMs
• Top speed of 120 to 125 mph
• 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds
