1953 Jaguar XK120 SE Drophead Coupe

Description

Jaguar co-founder Sir William Lyons conceived of a limited-production alloy-bodied roadster as a stopgap for the forthcoming Jaguar Mark VII while showcasing the capabilities of the 3.4-liter, 160-horsepower “XK” engine. And showcase it did! Dubbed the XK120 for its claimed 120 mph top speed, the lithe and sweeping roadster caused a sensation upon its debut at the 1948 London Motor Show in Open Two Seater form. Demand was such that the initial run of 240 handbuilt, aluminum construction cars were immediately snapped up, prompting Coventry to retool for steel construction by 1950. Today, XK120s are coveted not only for their important position in Jaguar history but also as one of the greatest post-war production sports cars of all time. 

This left-hand drive XK120 SE Drophead Coupe was the subject of a complete frame-off restoration in the early 2000s, including a rebuild of its numbers-matching 3.4-liter inline-six XK engine. The car also received an upgraded aluminum radiator, knock-off chrome wire wheels, and a new dark blue convertible top with a padded headliner as part of the restoration. Now presented in dark blue over a gray leather interior and seldom driven since restoration, this is an opportunity to acquire a well-preserved, matching-numbers Jaguar XK120 SE Drophead Coupe.

Highlights

• Retains its numbers-matching engine, cylinder head, and body according to a digital copy of its Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate

• Wears an older restoration completed in England in the early 2000s

• 3.4-liter inline-six XK engine and four-speed manual transmission were reportedly rebuilt as part of the restoration

• Optional SE factory equipment featuring a 9.0:1 compression ratio, high lift camshafts, lightweight flywheel, and stiffer rear springs

• Upgraded with Wilwood front disc brakes, an aluminum radiator with an electric fan, a high torque starter, a stainless steel exhaust, and a negative ground electrical conversion

• Rides on Dayton knock-off chrome wire wheels and spare mounted with Michelin Pilote X tires

• This XK120 SE Drophead Coupe is offered with the five-digit odometer currently showing just over 14,600 miles at the time of listing, however, the true mileage is unknown

Features

• Chrome front bumper and rear over-riders

• Aluminum radiator

• Dark blue soft top

• Split windshield

• Three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel

• Burl wood dashboard

• Dual exterior wing mirrors 

• 140-mph speedometer

• Dash-mounted rearview mirror

• Vent windows

• Manual roll-up windows

• Wilton wool carpeting

Known Imperfections

• Blemishes and minor chips in the paintwork commensurate with the age of the restoration

• Small tear in top boot

Included

• Digital copy of its Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate

• Full-size spare tire

• Jack, ratchet, and hammer

• Soft top boot cover

• Additional four-spoke steering wheel assembly

• Service manual

• Jaguar XK120 literature

Ownership History

This XK120 SE Drophead Coupe was dispatched to New York via noted European importer Max Hoffman on 29 May 1953, originally finished in Dove Grey over Tan leather and a Fawn soft top. The car was recently acquired by the selling dealer from a long-term collector. 

Additional Notes

Contact: Wire Wheel Classic Sports Cars Phone: 772.299.9788 email: Hayes@wirewheel.com

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders:  Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.

Optional vehicle service contract available for $1,275. Learn more about the program here. *Sales tax may be applicable.