Vehicle Description
Here's a prized classic with a story to tell. This 1954 Jaguar XK
120 SE Roadster is likely one of last left-hand driver examples
built. If that already didn't make this valued classic even more
desirable, the deep black paint, exceptionally well preserved
interior, strong original motor, and exceptionally low mileage all
make this the kind of turnkey classic that you can drive
immediately to all the best events.
We all love a classic Jaguar because it's a handcrafted reminder of
how fast can also be elegant. It's all about the sweeping curve
that starts at the front fender, and flows all the way to the rear
bumper in a wave pattern - it looks like a racer's scarf flowing at
100 mph. That's why it's essential to find an XK as exemplary as
this one. The flow of all of the sheetmetal must meet perfectly to
make one cohesive masterpiece. Just look at intricate tapering
design of doors that has the kind of labor-intensive process that
no factory would dare undertake today. If these were not as
straight and tight as this one, then the spell of this magic Jag
would instantly be broken. Of course, it also helps that this one
shines a little brighter with an amazing re-spray of the
factory-correct black. And as gorgeous as this car is, its history
is what has us talking in the office. Jaguar stopped producing the
XK 120 in the summer of 1954, but this one is titled as a 1955
model. In fact, the data plate tells us that this was one of the
last left-hand XK 120s built. So, it's our belief that in the time
it took to get across the Atlantic and Jaguar's USA distribution
network, this roadster became a very interesting anomaly. And since
we believe this data plate to be correct, there is more great
info... but we'll get to that in a moment.
One peek inside, and you'll be instantly transported back to Browns
Lane in 1954. That's because the Oxblood red leather interior is
believed to be original, and in terrific condition. The low-cut
doors of the roadster enhance the pure driving experience, and
there's even a full tonneau and side curtains if you need some
weather protection. When you slip into the driver's seat, you're
instantly reminded that the XK 120 had one of the best sports
steering wheel around. The full set of Smiths gauges are a nice cue
to this car's speedy pedigree. In fact, just in case you forget
about the land speed record the XK 120 set in 1953, all '54 SE
roadsters got a dash plaque to remind drivers how close there's is
to the one that went 172 mph in Belgium.
The XK 120's motor is what made it a legend. The 3.4-liter inline
six cylinder looks perfect in the slim engine bay, and it's
believed to be original to the car. But there's more to this story.
The "S" in the chassis number and "8" in the engine code signal
this is an "M" model. This is also known as the Special Equipment
(SE) designation, which raised the advertised output from 160 hp,
to 180 hp. But, beyond just power, these XKs were the driving
darlings of their day, thanks to features like the four-speed
manual transmission and race-inspired front suspension. This even
has a beautiful set of wire wheels, which was part of the SE
package for better brake cooling.
There are so many more reasons to cherish this Jag even beyond its
unique story, exceptional condition, and remarkably low mileage.
The sale comes with original pieces like the first set of knock-off
wire wheels and the top frame. Plus, there's paperwork like title
documentation, owner's manual, and a restoration photos book. This
is an exceptional roadster with a rare designation and an
interesting history. That's what makes it an award winner. And we
bet if you're a true enthusiast, you've got room on your shelf for
more trophies. So don't miss out on a full package classic like
this. Call now!!