First shown at the 1948 London Motor Show, the XK120 concept immediately set the automotive world on fire. Combining a curvaceous body with a world-class motor capable of taking the car up to 120 miles per hour. It walked the walk as well, holding the record for fastest production vehicle until 1955 at 124.6 mph, or 135 with modified gears, aero windscreen, and a tonneau cover in place! The car was singularly responsible for making Jaguar a feared name on racetracks and road rallies, contributing to several Le Mans wins during the 1950's. Sales success of the XK120 across worldwide showrooms totaled 12,055 units built in three body configurations over its six-year lifespan!
One option available to further enhance the XK120 performance for owners looking for a more spirited race feel would be the SE (Special Equipment) package. It would provide a high compression head, higher lift camshaft; special crankshaft damper; matching distributer, plugs, and carburetor needles; lightened flywheel with heavy duty clutch, beefed up torsion bars and springs, wire spoke wheels, and special dual exhaust. This SE package became commonly referred to as the "M" for modified here in the USA. Outside of the early aluminum XK120's, these are quite possibly the most desirable of open XK-series Jaguars to have in your English car collection today. This Jaguar XK120 SE Open-Two-Seater represents one or just 2,206 left-hand-drive models built between 1950-1954.
We are excited to offer this very late production 1954 Jaguar XK120 SE OTS Roadster finished in gorgeous Gloss Black over Red interior. Power comes from its original, number's matching 3442cc DOHC Inline 6 8.0:1 compression engine (#F4033-8S) making an impressive 180 factory rated horsepower, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. It has undoubtedly received a very competent period correct competition-style restoration and drives every bit as good as it looks! It starts easily, all gauges are functional, as well as the wipers, horn, turn signals, interior & exterior lighting, etc. The full running temperature never exceeds 85 degrees Celsius on an extended test drive, and oil strong pressure at idle and under throttle! Clutch engagement is smooth, and braking is reliable and confident under all conditions! It is surprisingly quick and a splendid joy to operate!
This special XK120 SE has been treated to some race-inspired body modifications that include a beautifully louvered hood, lower front fenders, and behind the wheels on the rear quarters to better direct airflow over and around the car while also helping reduce engine compartment temperature. Under the hood, you will see an exhaust header feeding the dual exhaust system, both made of stainless steel, that produce the most glorious of engine sound! Additional features include larger SU HD8 2-inch carburetors, Mallory dual-point distributor, lowered suspension, Spax adjustable shock dampers, polyurethane front end suspension bushings, high-torque starter, electric cooling fan, front and rear bumper delete with color-matched body filler caps, red painted 54-spoke wire wheels wrapped in Avon Radial black wall tires, and 3” interior lap belts. Its competition level presence is menacing just sitting still, while providing a thrilling experience only open top motoring can provide!
Having been part of our private collection since 2015, it has always been professionally cared for since arrival. Most recently in November 2019, it had its carburetors rebuilt, new brake master cylinder, front brake drums turned, new wheel cylinders, brake hoses/washers installed along with renewed brake fluid (DOT4). The engine oil/filter are changed annually, with new batteries installed in June 2021 along with a new storage disconnect and battery maintainer included. This Jaguar also comes with a custom fitted cloth tonneau cover. Do not miss this unique opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind 1954 XK120 SE Roadster that is certain to steal the attention of all onlookers! Call with questions or to schedule a chance to inspect it firsthand here in our showroom.
