Lot 057: 1956 JAGUAR XK140 ROADSTER

Launched at the 1954 Motor Show, the XK140 boasted the same bewitching styling as its forebear but allied it to a host of important mechanical improvements. Chief among these was the adoption of rack and pinion steering. Though, the fitment of telescopic shock absorbers (in place of the XK120's antiquated lever arm dampers) also had a noticeably beneficial effect on handling / roadholding. With its engine and bulkhead repositioned three inches further forward, the new model enjoyed a notably roomier cabin (the fixed and drophead coupe variants gaining occasional rear seats as a result). Available in 'standard', 'special equipment' or 'special equipment plus C-type cylinder head' guises, power and torque outputs ranged from 190bhp / 210lbft to 210bhp / 213lbft. Distinguished by its one-piece bumpers and simpler, more imposing radiator grill, the XK140 was among the fastest cars of its generation. Reputedly capable of over 130mph, it focused public consciousness on Jaguar's continued success at Le Mans (the Coventry marque winning the endurance classic in 1951, 1953, 1955, 1956 and 1957). According to information supplied via the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust, chassis 812782 was manufactured on 10th September 1956. A manual, left-hand drive XK140 Roadster finished in cream with red upholstery, it was sold new to E.G. Jackson of Granada Hills, California. With some sources putting the number of home market XK140 Roadsters at just forty-nine, it is perhaps unsurprising that chassis 812782 was repatriated and UK registered as early as February 1960. Though, the fact that its first British custodians were Eric Granville Jackson & Dorothy Jackson may also explain things (Mr Jackson apparently being content to swap the American West Coast for Hornchurch, Essex). Changing hands several times thereafter as documented by two accompanying old style logbooks, the Jaguar had been converted to right-hand drive and acquired the number plate 'XKA 1' by the time it entered the current family ownership some thirty-four years ago. Laid-up following a period of limited usage, the two-seater remained undisturbed for decades until the decision was taken to entrust it to a local restorer. Sadly the company in question ceased trading after little more than the paintwork had been completed, while the passing of the vendor's husband shortly afterwards acted as a further derailment. As part of its preparation for sale, the Roadster has recently been treated to some minor engine recommissioning. To this end, the cylinder head was removed and two exhaust valves replaced. The mechanic involved reportedly observed that the cylinder bores and camshafts looked to be superficially good, while he also noted that the valve seats had been replaced. With its fuel pump overhauled, the Jaguar duly started up and was deemed to run well if a little noisily due to the absence of an exhaust system past the manifold. A potentially rewarding restoration project that seemingly retains its original powerplant (or so a cursory inspection of the cylinder head stamping 'G8789-8' would imply) chassis 812782 is offered for sale with sundry paperwork. PLEASE NOTE: The body number for this lot has been recorded as the chassis number on both old logbooks and the V5C registration document.