1956 Jaguar XK140 SE Drophead Coupé

• Delivered new to the USA
• Left-hand drive
• Present ownership since 2006
• Professionally restored
• Rebuild history and photographic record available

This left-hand drive XK140 has the optional and more powerful C-type cylinder head and was sold new through Jaguar's New York distributors. The first owner was Mr R J Kulm of Elmhurst, Long Island, New York. The car was purchased through J D Classics (UK) via a distributor in Alabama, USA. It was imported and full duty and VAT paid in September 2006 prior to its acquisition by the current vendor. All documentation and original photographs are available.

Between 2008 and 2013 the XK was completely stripped back to bare metal, repaired and restored to the highest standards. A complete rebuild of the original engine was carried out including all new main bearings, cylinder head overhaul and refurbished carburettors. The upholstery and hood were completed by Suffolk & Turley, pre-eminent Jaguar upholsters, while all the wood veneers were replaced.

During restoration it was decided to make several upgrades to enable the car to be driven safely and with improved reliability. These included an upgraded fuel pump and starter motor; upgraded distributor and electronic ignition; and an electronic rev counter. An oil cooler has been fitted to the engine, and the cooling system uprated with an aluminium radiator and an electric fan. The gearbox has changed to a modern five-speed manual unit and the clutch uprated. There are now disc brakes all round and a new master cylinder. Other notable features include power steering, upgraded suspension, wider tyres, an immobiliser, and inertia-reel seatbelts, all for greater convenience and an improved driving experience.

Most of the work on the body was carried out by Martyn Collins, one of the UK's foremost Jaguar restorers who has previously won the NEC Classic Car Show 'top car' award two years running. Only some 2,500 miles have been covered post restoration (since the odometer was zeroed). According to our vendor, the car is a tour de force that both looks stunning and runs extraordinarily well. The car has been well maintained and is said to offer comfortable, safe and reliable motoring. Accompanying paperwork includes a Jaguar Heritage Certificate; importation documents; restoration bills; and a V5C Registration Certificate. The car also comes complete with spare wheel, tools, jack and a tonneau cover.