1956 Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupé

• Delivered new to the USA
• Comprehensively restored by JD Classics circa 2014
• Numerous highly desirable upgrades
• Present ownership for the last eight years
• Professionally stored and maintained

Newly introduced for 1955, the Jaguar XK140 was broadly similar to, though more refined than, its sensational XK120 predecessor, major engineering changes being confined to the repositioning of the engine 3" further forward and the adoption of rack-and-pinion steering. The suspension and brakes remained much as before, though with stiffer torsion bars at the front and telescopic shock absorbers replacing lever type at the rear. Outwardly the newcomer was distinguishable by its revised radiator grille, rear lights incorporating flashing indicators and larger bumpers, the latter adopted to withstand the cut and thrust of urban parking.

The power unit remained Jaguar's well-tried, 3.4-litre, twin-cam six, which now produced 190bhp in standard trim thanks to higher-lift camshafts and revised porting. To ensure reliability, steel bearing caps replaced the previous cast-iron type. A close-ratio gearbox enabled better use to be made of the increased performance and overdrive became an option for the first time. Special Equipment (SE) cars came with wire wheels and Lucas fog lamps, and could be ordered with an engine developing 210bhp courtesy of the C-type cylinder head. XK140 performance was well up to the standards set by its exemplary predecessor, contemporary road-tests regularly recording top speed figures in excess of 120mph.

This left-hand drive XK140 drophead coupé was delivered new to Jaguar Cars, New York and sold to its first owner in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA. The car left the factory finished in cream with red interior and black hood, and was equipped with automatic transmission.

Circa 2014 the XK was totally restored by respected marque specialists JD Classics for its South African collector, whose brief was to make the car as usable as possible. To that end the following upgrades have been incorporated: C-Type cylinder head; Getrag five-speed gearbox; limited-slip differential; disc brakes; electronic ignition; improved shock absorbers; and a high torque starter motor. Fitted luggage may be found in the boot. On completion the car was stored in the UK.

The XK has been used only for short trips to Europe and around the UK. It is said to have performed faultlessly, is serviced and a joy to drive. The car is professionally stored at Kenworthy & Co Vintage Motor Works Ltd and fettled after each trip. It has been meticulously maintained by JD Classics, whose detailed bills for annual servicing and maintenance between 2015 and 2018 total many thousands of pounds (inspection recommended). Last comprehensively serviced by Woodham Mortimer (JD Classics' parent company), the car is offered with a history file of documentation and a V5C Registration Certificate.