Vehicle Description
First shown at the 1948 London Motor Show, the XK120 concept
immediately set the automotive world on fire. Combining a
curvaceous body with a world-class motor capable of taking the car
up to 120 miles per hour. It walked the walk as well, holding the
record for fastest production vehicle until 1955 at 124.6 mph, or
135 with modified gears, aero windscreen, and a tonneau cover in
place! The car was singularly responsible for making Jaguar a
feared name on racetracks and road rallies, contributing to several
Le Mans wins during the 1950's. Sales success of the XK120 across
worldwide showrooms totaled 12,055 units built in three body
configurations over its six-year lifespan!
One option available to further enhance the XK120 performance for
owners looking for a more spirited race feel would be the SE
(Special Equipment) package. It would provide a high compression
head, higher lift camshaft; special crankshaft damper; matching
distributer, plugs, and carburetor needles; lightened flywheel with
heavy duty clutch, beefed up torsion bars and springs, wire spoke
wheels, and special dual exhaust. This SE package became commonly
referred to as the "M" for modified here in the USA. Outside of the
early aluminum XK120's, these are quite possibly the most desirable
of open XK-series Jaguars to have in your English car collection
today. This Jaguar XK120 SE Open-Two-Seater represents one or just
2,206 left-hand-drive models built between 1950-1954.
We are excited to offer this very late production 1954 Jaguar XK120
SE OTS Roadster finished in gorgeous Gloss Black over Red interior.
Power comes from its original, number's matching 3442cc DOHC Inline
6 8.0:1 compression engine (#F4033-8S) making an impressive 180
factory rated horsepower, mated to a upgraded Tremec 5-speed manual
transmission. It has undoubtedly received a very competent period
correct competition-style restoration and drives every bit as good
as it looks! It starts easily, all gauges are functional, as well
as the wipers, horn, turn signals, interior & exterior lighting,
etc. The full running temperature never exceeds 85 degrees Celsius
on an extended test drive, and oil strong pressure at idle and
under throttle! Clutch engagement is smooth, and braking is
reliable and confident under all conditions! It is surprisingly
quick and a splendid joy to operate!
This special XK120 SE has been treated to some race-inspired body
modifications that include a beautifully louvered hood, lower front
fenders, and behind the wheels on the rear quarters to better
direct airflow over and around the car while also helping reduce
engine compartment temperature. Under the hood, you will see an
exhaust header feeding the dual exhaust system, both made of
stainless steel, that produce the most glorious of engine sound!
Additional features include larger SU HD8 2-inch carburetors,
Mallory dual-point distributor, lowered suspension, Spax adjustable
shock dampers, polyurethane front end suspension bushings,
high-torque starter, electric cooling fan, front and rear bumper
delete with color-matched body filler caps, red painted 54-spoke
wire wheels wrapped in Avon Radial black wall tires, and 3"
interior lap belts. Its competition level presence is menacing just
sitting still, while providing a thrilling experience only open top
motoring can provide!
Having been part of our private collection since 2015, it has
always been professionally cared for since arrival. Most recently
in November 2019, it had its carburetors rebuilt, new brake master
cylinder, front brake drums turned, new wheel cylinders, brake
hoses/washers installed along with renewed brake fluid (DOT4). The
engine oil/filter are changed annually, with new batteries
installed in June 2021 along with a new storage disconnect and
battery maintainer included. This Jaguar also comes with a custom
fitted cloth tonneau cover. Do not miss this unique opportunity to
own a one-of-a-kind 1954 XK120 SE Roadster that is certain to steal
the attention of all onlookers! Call with questions or to schedule
a chance to inspect it firsthand here in our showroom.
