This 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster is an absolutely stunning, final year example that has undergone a concours-caliber frame-off restoration.
Few automobiles in the history of the motorcar have made a first impression as breathtaking or as consequential as the Jaguar XK120 Roadster. It is stunning to look at, genuinely fast, and priced within reach of a broader audience than most comparable European sports cars of its era. The XK120 was a landmark automobile that announced Britain's postwar automotive ambitions in a dramatic fashion.
Unveiled in the fall of 1948 at the Earl's Court Motor Show, the XK120 impressed the automotive world with its sensuous, flowing bodywork and high-performance engineering. The name indicated its claimed top speed of 120 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest production cars at the time. The automotive press and public responded enthusiastically, establishing Jaguar's global reputation almost overnight.
The XK120's appeal centered on its magnificent twin-overhead-cam 3.4-liter XK inline-six engine, developed during World War II by a team led by William Heynes. This engine produced 160 horsepower in standard form, offering smooth responsiveness and a glorious exhaust note. It powered Jaguar road and racing cars for two decades and contributed to Jaguar's motorsport success, laying the groundwork for Le Mans victories with the C-Type and D-Type.
By 1954, the XK120 had been refined into its most desirable form. The open roadster body, originally aluminum and later steel, remains one of the most beautiful automotive designs ever created. Its flowing, sensuous shape has inspired enthusiasts and designers for over seventy years.
This example comes from a discerning collector and has been comprehensively restored to concours standards. It has been invited to and shown at multiple concours events.
Under the hood is a numbers-matching 3.4-liter dual overhead cam inline-six engine, fed by twin side-draft SU carburetors, producing 160 horsepower from the factory. The engine is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, making this British sports car a joy to drive. Exhaust gases exit via a dual exhaust system with chrome-tipped tailpipes, producing a charming rumble.
The car rides on 6.00H16 Blackwell tires mounted on color-matched steel wheels, completing its classic appearance.
