1951 Jaguar XK120 Roadster

• Beautifully presented in period-correct Dove Grey over red livery
• Eligible for many tours and events
• Classic and iconic Jaguar XK styling
• Offered with Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate

"We claimed 120 mph (for the XK120), a speed unheard of for a production car in those days" - William Heynes, Chief Engineer, Jaguar Cars.

Conceived and constructed in just a few months, the XK120 debuted at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show where the stunning-looking roadster caused a sensation, the resulting demand for what was then the world's fastest production car taking Jaguar by surprise.

Its stunning appearance notwithstanding, the XK120 was conventional enough beneath the skin, being built on a separate chassis featuring independent front suspension by means of wishbones and torsion bars, a live rear axle and drum brakes all round. The car's heart was, of course, the fabulous XK engine. Intended for Jaguar's post-war range-topping saloon, the 3.4-litre six embodied the best of modern design, boasting twin overhead camshafts running in an aluminium-alloy cylinder head, seven main bearings and a maximum output of 160bhp. When installed in the lightweight XK120, the result was a car with a phenomenal power-to-weight ratio and blistering performance.

The XK120 set new standards of comfort, handling and performance for sports cars and in keeping with the Jaguar tradition there was nothing to touch it at the price. Coupé and Drophead Coupé versions followed, which provided the opportunity to offer a luxurious interior with copious amounts of wood veneer. Regardless of the type of bodywork, the XK120 was a genuine 120mph car capable of sustained high-speed cruising.

According to its Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate (copy on file), this beautiful left-hand drive XK120 Roadster was manufactured on 10th September 1951 finished in Pastel Blue with a Duo Blue interior and fawn convertible hood. Destined for the United States market, the Jaguar was dispatched to the Hoffman Motor Car Company in New York three weeks later and appears to have remained in the USA for almost its entire life. It should be note that the XK no longer has its original engine, though that currently fitted is of the correct type, as is the transmission.

In 2018 the Jaguar was offered for sale at Bonhams' auction at Quail Lodge (Lot 15). At that time the car was described as beautifully presented with period-correct Dove Grey paintwork and a rich red leather interior.In 2019, this XK was imported into Europe by a collector, before being sold to the current owner in 2023. Since then, the current custodian has enjoyed driving Jaguar's iconic sports roadster on various Historic events including the famous Zoute Grand Prix Classic Rally.