Lot 207: 1956 Jaguar XK140SE Coupé

‘For 1955, Jaguar present a range of models incorporating not only added refinements, but mechanical advances directly derived from their many outstanding successes in international competitive events. All the wealth of experience gained on the race-tracks of the world and in record-breaking speed and endurance tests is built into every Jaguar to provide for discriminating motorists the highest degree of efficient performance allied to comfort and safety.’ - Jaguar Cars Ltd. 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 re-positioning 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 power unit remained Jaguar’s well-tried, 3.4-litre, twin-cam six, which now produced 190bhp in standard trim. A close-ratio gearbox enabled better use to be made of the increased performance and Laycock-de Normanville overdrive became an option for the first time. Special Equipment 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 XK140SE Coupé is the 24th from last made and the latest known survivor of its particular type. The car was purchased from the Van Dijk Collection sale in 2005, having been stored in a carefully climate controlled environment for some years. Since acquisition it has been kept in dry storage as part of a small private collection and professionally maintained, being brought back to running condition, serviced and the interior refurbished. The top-of-the-line XK140SE is offered with current road fund licence, MoT to February 2007 and Swansea V5 document.