Lot 068: 1955 JAGUAR XK140 FIXED HEAD COUPE

An evolution of its immortal XK120 predecessor, the Jaguar XK140 was introduced at the October 1954 London Motor Show. Visually distinguished by one-piece bumpers, discreet indicator lights and a less toothy, cast grille, the newcomer also enjoyed a more spacious cabin thanks to the repositioning of its engine and bulkhead some three inches further forward. Reputedly developing some 190bhp / 213lbft of torque in standard tune (the same outputs quoted for the outgoing XK120 Special Equipment model), the XK140 made good use of its new rack and pinion steering and upgraded telescopic shock absorbers. Available in Roadster, Drophead Coupe and Fixed-Head Coupe guises (the latter two variants boasting 2+2 seating, wind-up windows and wood veneer dashboards), the sportscar remained in production until 1957 by which time some 8,943 are thought to have left Browns Lane. Though, the number of 'home market' fixed-head coupes has been estimated at just 733. Finished in white with red leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Beginning life as a 'home market' fixed-head coupe (or so its quoted chassis number would imply), 'HRN 620' was with its previous keeper for twenty-three years. Reportedly treated to "an extensive body off restoration during the mid-1980s", the XK140 is said to have been "seldom used since". Thought to have been sourced from a contemporaneous Jaguar MKI 3.4 Litre Saloon, its DOHC straight-six engine is allied to more modern Getrag five-speed manual transmission. Riding on steel wheels shod with chrome hubcaps, the car shows an unwarranted 66,362 miles to its odometer (though, the speedometer itself is apparently faulty). An evocative 1950s sportscar, 'HRN 620' is offered for sale with Heritage Certificate, MOT certificate valid until November 27th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until November 2007.