1957 Jaguar XK140 SE Fixed Head Coupe

3,781cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine (see text)
2 SU Carburetors
220bhp at 5,500rpm (see text)
3-Speed BorgWarner Automatic Transmission
Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Reported to be one of only three left-drive, automatic XK140 FHCs built in 1957
*Upgraded to a torquier 3.8-liter engine
*Delivered new to Harrah's in Reno, Nevada
*A welcome entrant to numerous events and tours


THE JAGUAR XK140

The XK140 was launched in 1954, giving buyers what they loved about the 120, but with benefits of vastly improved steering, better cooling and brakes and most importantly, increased legroom thanks to a relocation of the engine and firewall. Produced though 1957, the XK140 models included a cabriolet-type Drophead Coupe (DHC), a Fixed Head Coupe (FHC) and an Open Two-Seater (OTS) Roadster. Jaguar designers moved the DOHC 3.4-liter inline 6-cylinder engine forward in the XK chassis for the new model. The revised placement permitted more legroom in the cockpit, even as the previously used dashboard and seating locations were retained. For the first time, a bit of open space was also provided behind the front seat.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

According to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certification, this swift coupe rolled off the factory line on June 7, 1956 and was dispatched through Hornburg of Los Angeles, reportedly for Harrah's Reno, Nevada dealership. Originally finished in Carmen Red over Black, it is understood to be one of only three XK140 Fixed Head Coupes that were ordered in both left-hand drive and with the BorgWarner automatic in 1957 making it a very rare car indeed!

The early history of this Coupe is not recorded, but it was clearly recognized as something special early on as it has been enthusiast owned for much of its modern history. A regular entrant at numerous shows throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, it is reported to have been shown at many Jaguar Club of North America Driver class events during that period. Understood to have been restored in 1989, it is said that the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and rear end were rebuilt. The Jag was repainted and the interior upholstered while the drivetrain was out. It was also during this time that the engine was upgraded to a 3.8-liter block from a MkII with a head fitted with hardened valves and seats. It should be noted that no records of the work completed accompany the car.

Actively driven and used by its prior enthusiast owners, in 2002 the then-owners drove the car from Reno, Nevada to Albuquerque, New Mexico on a Jaguar sanctioned tour that covered some 4,000 miles—all done without any reported incidents. The present owner acquired the car in August of 2007. In the current collection, far less use has been seen by the car with it remaining undriven on static display for most of the past 15 years. As such, mechanical recommissioning will be necessary prior to the next 4,000 miles tour.