The ex-Eric Haddon / 1953 RAC Rally
1950 Jaguar XK120 Competition Roadster

• First owned by privateer racer Eric Haddon
• In-period competition history
• Unrestored until three years ago
• FIA papers to follow

"Haddon and Vivian drove prudently - in the 1954 Alpine Rally - sacrificing many road marks;
but they were rewarded with a win in the over 2.6-litre class ... one of the last competitive
international rally performances for a Jaguar XK120..." - Andrew Whyte, Jaguar Sports Racing & Works Competition Cars from 1954, Haynes, 1987.

'PPA 580' was first owned by Eric Haddon, one of the most accomplished privateers in the race and rally scene in the early 1950s, who was more than capable of mixing it with the 'works boys'. He owned the XK between 1950 and 1954, participating in the early RAC Rallies and racing the car at most of the well known circuits. The XK's subsequent history remains uncertain, but investigation is now beginning to reveal its participation in many early events. It is known to have participated in the RAC Rally and MCC Daily Express Rally, both in 1953, and in the Weston Rally (1952), Felixstowe Rally, Eastbourne Rally (1953) and Castle Coombe (1954). Photographs exist of 'PPA 580' competing in period.

Haddon also owned another XK120, 'RJH 400', which was driven by him and Charles Vivian in the 1954 Tulip and Alpine Rallies with entries handled by Jaguar's Lofty England. The duo shone in the Tulip Rally, finishing 12th overall and 2nd in class, and then finished 1st in class in the Alpine event. Another 1st in class was achieved in the MCC Redex Rally in November. In 1960, behind the wheel of an XK150S roadster on this occasion, he was again a class winner in the Tulip Rally

Quite remarkably, it appears that 'PPA 580' remained unrestored for some 50-or-so years until some three years ago. It is mentioned in a very early XK Register as being unrestored and owned by a Mr D P Williams of Milton Keynes. Some 25 years ago the car was purchased by a Mr John Turner in Somerset and again remained unrestored. In 2019 the car was discovered by XK specialists Twyford Moors. TM then sold it to the company founder, who over the last three years has undertaken a full restoration as a retirement project.

The original chassis and suspension, etc was in excellent condition and retains all its original correctly stamped numbers. Many of the original body panels were saved and repaired, but new front wings, doors and boot lid were fitted. The original engine's whereabouts remain unknown but a correct early XK120 engine was already in the owner's possession, and together with the gearbox was completely rebuilt by Twyford Moors to fast-road specification. The original engine number is still on the chassis plate and the current V5C, which can be changed should the next owner so desire. The XK retains its original ENV rear axle, and as appropriate for a competition car, the engine is fitted with 2" sand-cast SU carburettors. It is finished in an original colour of Dove Grey with biscuit and red interior finished in grand style by Mike Thomas Trimming.

The XK has recently been inspected and carries a certified FIA stamp enabling it to participate in the most prestigious events worldwide (paperwork to follow). Accordingly, the car has been prepared in the most correct manner to incorporate a cutout switch, rear fog lamp, front and rear tow hooks, race fuel pump, lowered suspension, and an alloy finished floor below the carpets, which can be easily removed.

Having had considerable experience in racing XKs, the owner has (subject to approval) prepared a list of potential improvements to enable the car to participate in racetrack orientated activities. This list is in the file together with a resume of all the works undertaken during the restoration. Being somewhat surplus to requirements, the car has been unused since the restoration's completion and will require careful running-in with all the usual checks prior to regular use.

The car comes with various spares including an unrestored pair of XK120 seats and rare competition side screens. A correct spare wheel is on board but an additional spare Vredestein-shod wheel accompanies the car. The competition seats are easily removed and the passenger seat is hinged to give access to the battery box. The car has FIA papers, a current V5C, and is taxed for road use. A wonderful opportunity to purchase a very early XK120 with in-period competition history.