The sports car that re-defined
Jaguar in the early 1950’s, with beautiful William Lyons design,
inspired by BMW’s classic 328. Originally intended as a handmade
low volume production model to demonstrate the then new in-line
6 cylinder overhead camshaft XK engine, it became practically an
overnight success, surprising even Jaguar.
This was the fastest production sports car in 1949, with speeds
of over 120mph demonstrated to the press on the Jabeke highway in
Belgium. XK120 competition began by winning the first production
sports car race entered in 1949 at Silverstone. Prolific International
Rally success was brought mostly by the celebrated Ian and Pat Appleyard
in NUB 120 partnership.
Our 1954 XK120, whilst keeping the external appearance of a completely
standard car is professionally up-rated to approx. 1958 XK150 3.4S
mechanical specification:
A Mildly tuned engine with twin 2 in. H6 SU carbs, flowed wide angle,
big valve cylinder head, twin exhaust system, lightened and balanced,
developing circa 250 bhp produces lively performance. An XK120 close
ratio gearbox, a dual circuit braking system with Dunlop/Jaguar
disc brakes front and rear, rack and pinion steering, telescopic
rear shock absorbers (as per 1954 XK140 model) and uprated suspension
improve the chassis dynamics, while an XK140 radiator (bigger) and
remote header tank try to keep the originally under-specified cooling
under control. No unnecessary accessories (e.g. heater), an aluminium
boot lid and a louvred aluminium bonnet (ex Stirling Moss XK120),
keep the weight down and, importantly, look the part.
The XK120 Open Top Sports can be supplied with either
original equipment leather touring seats or optional leather covered
period bucket seats, and either, the original equipment windscreen
or period aero-screens.
All in all producing an exhilarating drive, that in competition
build specification is suitable for historic regularity rallying
or JEC XK production sports-car races – modified standard
class (C - 2003).
Note: The XK 120 will be fitted with appropriate tyres and safety
equipment for racing events.
See
Rally Events
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