Lot 241: 1954 Jaguar XK140 Roadster

The XK120 set new standards in car design and manufacture, but some of Jaguar's suppliers needed time to catch up - they were not used to making lights and brakes for cars capable of over 120mph. It is to Jaguar's credit that it ran a development programme which continued to within months of the last XK150 model. When the XK140 was announced in 1954 it was essentially an evolutionary version of the XK120 and it retained the latter's excellent dynamics and superb levels of appointment and attention to detail. Engine power increased to 190bhp, there were stiffer suspension torsion bars and improved lights, cooling, brakes and steering. The main improvement, however, was moving the engine and scuttle three inches forward which gave better handling and improved cockpit space without compromising the car's stunning lines. On the coupé models there were additional seats for children and the back squabs were also detachable so that an adult could use the space seated across the car. The entire range abounded with clever details such as that - the XK series is one of the few which truly merits the word great. Of the three variants the factory offered, the drop-head coupé was the least common and just 2,789 were made. With its permanently attached hood (the frame is a minor masterpiece) and wind-up windows, it is an ideal compromise between the more sparsely equipped roadster and the fixed-head coupé. All three models were outstanding, however, and only the most expensive exotica could match them either under real driving conditions or for kerbside presence. Taking into account reliability, refinement and sheer pleasure of driving, the XK140 was one of the outstanding cars of its day and it remains one of the greatest classic cars. The example being offered here is a stunning 1954 Roadster Special Equipment model with original C Type cylinder head engine, delivering a total of 210bhp. Finished in British Racing Green with a biscuit interior, the car has been carefully restored to a very high standard, with a brand new stainless steel exhaust system, a full mechanical overhaul, a new clutch, and a full electrical rewiring with restored original gauges. All decorative and bodywork items have either been re-chromed or replaced with authentic parts supplied by SNG Barratt in Shropshire and Bassett Jaguar in America, which are both world leaders in the classic Jaguar parts market. In addition, the car has had a new hood fitted, with the original style rear window replaced, and a matching tonneau and wet-weather equipment are also supplied. This is a truly exceptional and highly desirable example of this classic Jaguar, which is superbly presented and requires absolutely no work or expense. An automotive masterpiece in every sense of the word.