1952 Jaguar XK120 3.4-Litre Competition Roadster

Registration no. OSJ 529 Chassis no. 672301

Footnotes

Delays in the gestation of its MkVII saloon led to Jaguar exploring an alternative method of bringing its new 'XK' engine to public attention. The result was the XK120 sports car. Launched at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the stunning-looking roadster caused a sensation. Conceived as a low-volume model, the XK120 proved considerably more popular than expected, with the result that the expensive-to-produce, ash-framed alloy coachwork was replaced by steel after 240 cars had been completed.

Although it had not been designed with racing in mind, the XK120's competition potential was immediately obvious, not least to the factory, which entered a three-car team in the one-hour race for standard production cars at Silverstone in August 1949. The XKs of Leslie Johnson and Peter Walker duly rewarded Jaguar's faith in its new sports car by finishing 1st and 2nd respectively, thus setting the scene for an illustrious competition career that would culminate in the development of the legendary C-Type. The XK120 and its successors remain immensely popular with the historic racing fraternity today.

Originally manufactured in 1952, this fine example was exported new to the USA. Re-patriating back to these shores in the late 1990s, it was subsequently converted to right-hand-drive during a highly comprehensive restoration.

Chassis number '672301' is an exceptionally well-known and potent competition XK120 roadster. Often admired, it presents in a wonderful period style colour of pastel green over green leather and has been developed at great expense into an FIA specification Roadster. Included in the sale is a substantial history file detailing much of this work and subsequent maintenance.

Its tuned competition engine features a C-Type cylinder head, all important 2" twin SU Carburettors and oil cooler along with an uprated cooling system. The louvered bonnet, aero screens and bucket seats complete with Willams harnesses add to its competition stance. We are advised it has been campaigned admirably with success by previous owners.

Importantly; as with any FIA race car, this XK has been properly maintained over this period by noted marque specialists, including CKL Developments, and is offered with current FIA papers (valid to 31st December 2028), a detachable roll hoop and a spare set of wheels.

'672301' represents an opportunity to acquire a car that could return to full competition use should its new custodian desire or is ready to enjoy on the road. It would certainly make the perfect partner for the ever-popular road rally events on offer this season. The XK 120 is a highly eligible entrant to many of the best events in historic motoring including Le Mans Classic and the Mille Miglia Storica.