1953 Jaguar XK 120

HISTORY OF THE XK120 SE:

Beginning in 1951, the XK120 could be ordered in Special Equipment (SE) specification. The SE cars offered stiffer suspension, and wire wheels. Output increased from 160 to 180 horsepower thanks to higher-lift camshafts and a twin-pipe exhaust system. Exact production figures of the SE models are not publicly known, but it is believed that approximately 753 were assembled in Fixed Head Coupe Form.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED:

The 1953 Jaguar XK120 SE Fixed Head Coupe is featured here and is finished in its factory correct color combination of Lavender Grey over a Red leather interior. According to the accompanying Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate Chassis No. S680968 was completed at the Coventry works on March 18th 1953 and dispatched later that month to Hoffmans in New York.

While its original owner is not documented, S680968 is believed to have entered its second ownership in Michigan during August 1955. A Detroit resident would care for the Jaguar for more than three decades before selling it in 1987 to another Michigan enthusiast who would remain its caretaker for the next 35 years.

During this long-term Michigan ownership, Chassis No. S680968 received a sympathetic restoration with all new interior trimmings, and a fresh exterior respray in the original Lavender Grey; shade that even today exhibits a sandy beige hue, that the Jaguar Factory Color exhibited when new.

ITS ALIVE! originally acquired the XK120 SE for our collection in March 2022 from the Michigan caretaker of 35 years. After some light servicing and correcting the door striker alignment by our in-house specialists, ITS ALIVE! later sold the car to its current owner/our consignor in February 2025. Purchased with the intention of participating in historic rallies and touring events throughout the United States, ITS ALIVE! was commissioned to perform an extensive series of improvements designed to enhance reliability, performance, comfort, and overall driver enjoyment.

Between February and August 2025, more than $90,000 USD was invested into Chassis No. S680968, with improvements touching virtually every major mechanical system including the engine, fuel delivery, cooling, drivetrain, suspension, braking system, and interior. Rather than alter the essence of the XK120, the objective was to create a more capable grand touring machine that could be enjoyed confidently on modern roads while preserving the character that made the model an icon. Importantly, these improvements were completed as part of a single, cohesive build rather than accumulated over decades, resulting in a Jaguar whose systems were engineered to complement one another rather than simply adding isolated upgrades.

At the center of the transformation is an Individual Throttle Body Electronic Fuel Injection system from JENVEY DYNAMICS, managed by an EMERALD ECU, both highly respected names in British performance engineering. The conversion delivers improved starting, throttle response, drivability, and consistency while allowing the legendary XK Twin-Cam Six to deliver its full potential.

Supporting those gains are numerous complementary upgrades throughout the engine bay including a high-torque starter, upgraded front crankshaft seal and timing chain tensioner, spin-on oil filter conversion, new clutch and flywheel, fresh engine mounts, reconditioned fuel tank, aluminum radiator, electric cooling fan, new water pump, thermostat, hoses, and associated service items. Exhaust gases exit through a beautifully crafted polished stainless-steel Sport Silencer twin-pipe exhaust system from CLASSICFABS of Scotland, providing both improved breathing and an appropriately sporting soundtrack.

Equally transformative is the driving experience. A modern TREMEC five-speed transmission from American Powertrain replaces the factory four-speed gearbox, making the XK120 significantly more enjoyable on todays roads while maintaining the engaging character expected of Jaguars first postwar sports car. Suspension improvements include a comprehensive front-end rebuild with SPAX shock absorbers, polyurethane bushings, new ball joints, and tie rods, complemented by rebuilt rear lever shocks and a front disc brake conversion that substantially improves driver confidence.

Inside, thoughtful driver-focused upgrades include a Moto-Lita wood-rim steering wheel, custom floor-mounted pedal assembly, new heater core, fresh seat belts, and a Jaguar-logo shift knob, creating an environment that feels purposeful without losing the XK120s period charm.

Recognizing the historical significance of the car, many of the original components have been carefully retained. The SU carburetors accompany the sale, while the original numbers-matching four-speed gearbox remains with the consignor in Pennsylvania and is available to be shipped directly to the next owner at their expense.

After taking possession of the XK120 SE in the late Summer of 2025, the consignors personal life presented a change of priorities and thus ITS ALIVE! has been tasked with finding this thoughtfully enhanced Jaguars next caretaker.

ITS ALIVE! is proud to offer this outstanding XK120 SE FHC with tasteful enhancements to the most discerning collector or enthusiast who appreciates the legacy of the XK120 model while enjoying it to its fullest potential. If you are the next caretaker of this classic, please contact us at 314-710-6600 ext 140 or email us at Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.