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'From the Maine Classic Car Museum Collection'
1952 Jaguar XK120 OTS
Sold for US$73,920 inc. premium
Chassis no. S672902
Engine no. W4004-8 (see text)
o 3,442cc Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
o 2 SU Carburetors
o 160bhp at 5,000rpm
o 4-Speed Manual Transmission
o Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle
o 4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*A beautifully presented example of the iconic XK120 Roadster
*Finished in an appropriately sporting red over biscuit livery
*Svelte lines accentuated by disc wheels and rear spats
*Well-maintained restoration, prime for touring enjoyment
THE JAGUAR XK120
In the 1940s, the British motor industry was told to with great seriousness to "export or die." Jaguar Cars responded valiantly and soon became the UK's biggest US-dollar earner thanks in no small measure to the success of its XK120 sports car. Conceived and constructed over a few short months, the stunning new XK120 roadster debuted at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show and caused a sensation.
The XK120 was built on a separate chassis featuring independent front suspension via wishbones and torsion bars, a live rear axle, and large hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners. The car's heart was, of course, the fabulous XK engine. Conceived in wartime and intended for Jaguar's post-war range-topping saloon, the 3.4-liter straight-six embodied the best of modern design, boasting twin overhead camshafts, an aluminum cylinder head, seven main bearings, and a maximum output of 160bhp matched by vast reserves of torque.
The body was the work of Jaguar boss William Lyons himself - and widely considered one of the most beautiful shapes ever to grace an automobile. It was conceived as an aluminum body for the fact that Jaguar expected to sell no more than 200 Open Two-Seater (OTS) roadsters in the first year!
Jaguar's racing dynasty was also built on the XK120, and it was the choice for many future stars including Stirling Moss and Phil Hill. In various tunes, Jaguar's 'XK' engine famously propelled the C-Type and D-Type sports racers to international racing dominance, including five wins (1951, 1953, 1955-57) at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
THE CAR OFFERED
This striking XK120 OTS (open two-seat) roadster was treated to a high-level restoration in the early 2000s and has since been carefully enjoyed and maintained in fine condition. The accompanying Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate shows this car features the optional high-performance "Special Equipment" package. Unusually, it is optioned with color-matched steel disc wheels and rear fender spats, enhancing the sleek lines and imparting a clean, streamlined look compared to the more common wire wheels. The minimalist cockpit is trimmed in biscuit tan leather, with factory correct details and a lightly broken-in character. Carpets, door cards, and the fascia are trimmed in original style patterns and materials. Beneath the bonnet sits the legendary 'XK' DOHC inline-six, which is tidy and authentically detailed, with a road-ready appeal. It is noted that the engine block is a replacement standard-specification unit.
With broad event eligibility and superlative performance, it would be hard to pass up this lovely XK120 as your pick for rallies, tours, and club events.
Saleroom notices
Please note that the cylinder head and engine block stampings do not appear to be in factory Jaguar fonts, making its age/model indeterminable.
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Today we're back at Bonhams to see the auction.
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It's Scottsdale Car Week! I flew here and Fred drove with Harriet for some warmer weather, friend visits, and cars!