Lot 264: Jaguar XK 140 Coupe

The Jaguar XK140 was introduced in October 1954 at the London Motor Show as the successor to the XK120. It was easily distinguishable from its predecessor because of its more substantial front and rear bumpers, the radiator grille with fewer slats and a chromium strip which ran along the centre of the bonnet and boot. Under the bonnet the XK140 had the superb six cylinder 3.4 litre engine which was basically the same as the Special Equipment XK120 unit, and thus capable of producing 190bhp at 5,600rpm, compared to the 160bhp of the standard XK120. Like the XK120, however, the XK140 had independent front suspension with semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear. The XK140 sold very well indeed, with orders flooding in. This was for two reasons: firstly due to the excellence of the old XK120, which had won so many peoples' hearts; and because of the enormous success Jaguar was enjoying in international motor racing, winning Le Mans in 1951 and 1953 with the C-Type and in 1955, 1956 and 1957 with the D-Type. A total nut and bolt restoration has been carried out on this perfectly presented XK 140 FHC, by German specialists Kübler GmbH Marbach in 1995/96, since when the car performed without problems, having covered some 18,000 miles. The restoration process was so comprehensive that bodywork, mechanics, interior etc were all restored or rebuilt using exclusively original parts from specialist suppliers. A list of the works carried out during the restoration is included in the car's file. The quality and detail of this restoration can still be seen on the car today, which is presented in near immaculate condition and finished in British racing green with matching suede leather interior. Registered with German documentation, this classic Jaguar coupe is sure to please her next owner for many years to come.