Lot 277: 1956 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 120+ mph cars. It is to Jaguar's credit that it ran a development programme which continued to within months of the last XK150. When the XK140 was announced in 1954 it was essentially a Mk II version. It retained the excellent dynamics of the XK120 and its superb level of appointment and attention to detail. Engine power increased to 190bhp, there were stiffer 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 coupés models there were additional seats for children but, nice touch, the back squabs were 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 merit the term 'great'. Of the three variants the factory offered, the drophead 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. This XK 140 - special equipment model - is in good to excellent condition and finished in midnight blue with an excellent grey leather interior. The car was delivered in early 1957 to California, it was later discovered in 1975 in a barn by a Hamburg based hotel owner who bought it on the spot and took it to Germany. The car then underwent a thorough restoration and with its only 2nd. german owner (the vendor) it received a full engine rebuilt in 2006, since when the car has only been driven sparingly in summer. It is described in an expert evidence, dated 20.4.2006, as being in very good condition with a freshly rebuilt engine (running on lead-free petrol) and further restored mechanics and new clutch. This costing of which was in the region of 15.000. Sitting on chrome wire wheels this elegant Jaguar is registered with historical German number plates and paperwork and ready for immediate use. Surely a pleasure to drive over the coming summer months.