1954 Jaguar XK 120

This 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster is an absolutely stunning, final year example that was the beneficiary of a concours-caliber frame-off restoration. Few automobiles in the entire history of the motorcar have made a first impression as breathtaking or as consequential as the Jaguar XK120 Roadster. Stunning to look at, genuinely fast, and priced within reach of a far broader audience than most comparable European sports cars of the era, the XK120 was a landmark automobile that announced Britains postwar automotive ambitions to the world in the most dramatic fashion imaginable. Unveiled in the fall of 1948 at the Earls Court Motor Show, the XK120 stunned the automotive world with a combination of sensuous, flowing bodywork and genuine high-performance engineering that nobody had anticipated from a relatively modest British manufacturer. The name said it all - XK120 denoted the cars claimed top speed of 120 miles per hour, a figure that made it one of the fastest production automobiles on the planet at the time of its introduction. The automotive press and buying public responded with immediate and overwhelming enthusiasm, and Jaguars global reputation was made virtually overnight. At the heart of the XK120s appeal was the magnificent twin-overhead-cam 3.4 liter XK inline six-cylinder engine - one of the greatest engines in automotive history by any measure. Developed by a team of Jaguar engineers led by William Heynes during the darkest years of World War II, the XK engine was a masterpiece of engineering elegance that produced 160 horsepower in standard form. Smooth, responsive, and possessing a glorious exhaust note that remains one of the finest sounds in all of motoring, the XK engine went on to power Jaguar road and racing cars for an extraordinary two decades. The XK120 was no mere show car - it was a genuine racing machine that proved its credentials on circuits and rally stages around the world. Jaguar works and private entries achieved remarkable results in period competition, and the XK120s motorsport success is believed to have laid the foundation for Jaguars legendary Le Mans victories with the C-Type and D-Type that followed in the 1950s. For the serious collector of vintage British sports cars, the XK120s competition heritage adds a layer of historical significance that few contemporaries can match. By 1954, the XK120 had been refined over several years of production into its most developed and desirable form. The open roadster body - originally crafted in aluminum and later produced in steel - remains one of the most beautiful automotive designs ever committed to metal, a flowing, sensuous shape that has inspired designers and captivated enthusiasts for more than seven decades. Today, a 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster is among the most coveted and celebrated classics in the world - a genuine landmark of British automotive history that belongs in the finest collections. This particular example comes to us from the collection of a discerning enthusiast who oversaw the sports cars comprehensive frame-off restoration that led to its invitations, showings, and judgings at multiple concours level events. Under the bonnet of this 54 XK120 Roadster is a numbers matching 3.4 Liter dual overhead cam inline 6 cylinder engine fed by a pair of side draft SU carburetors that together were said to have produced 160 horsepower from the factory. The 3,442cc Twin-Cam straight 6 is mated to a 4 speed manual transmission that makes this British sports car an absolute thrill to drive. Exhaust exits this Jaguars formidable 50s powerplant via a dual exhaust setup, producing a charming rumble out of the rear chrome-tipped tailpipes. Riding on a set of 6.00H16 Blackwell tires mounted on color-matched steel wheels with beauty rings and Jaguar emblazoned hubcaps, this 1954 Jaguar has an outstanding period-correct look. Stopping power is generated from dual master cylinders feeding hydraulic drum brakes that makes for a much more reliable braking system than what is often seen in cars of this vintage. The black cloth hood as its known across the pond (otherwise known as the convertible top) is in wonderful condition and provides protection from the elements should you need it. This XK120 Roadster is also outfitted with rear removable side curtains and fender skirts, providing both utilitarian usefulness as well as some in-period flair. The boot (trunk) is nicely detailed and surprisingly roomy, housing a spare tire and the optional tool kit should you need them. A pair of chrome mirrors sit atop the front fenders so that you can better see down the sides of this gorgeous Jaguar. The body of this Jaguar convertible has been refinished in beautiful Damson Red paint that completes the exterior look of this British sports car. The interior of this 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster is wonderful! The divided bench seat has been reupholstered in black leather that provides a terrific contrast to the exterior of this XK120 Jaguar. The matching door panels, black carpeting, and four-spoke steering wheel are all in great shape as well while retaining a great stock appearance. Mounted below the dash-mounted rear-view mirror is a full array of Smiths instrumentation including a 140 MPH speedometer, 6,000 RPM rev counter (tachometer), temperature gauge, ammeter and fuel gauge, as well as a clock. Whether you are an experienced Jaguar collector or a discerning buyer seeking one of the most beautiful sports cars ever built, this 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster would make an excellent choice. Give Ellingsons a call today at 763-428-7337!