1955 Jaguar XK140 SE Dhc

Overview **Overall Comments** A well-kept and very smart example of the XK140 Roadster, fitted with the highest specification engine. In good running and driving condition, its current owner is now looking for a new keeper to enjoy the car. The car is currently Jersey registered. The 4-digit registration is not included but could be available through separate negotiation. We can assist with (worldwide) shipping and importation processes if required. **Body** Although we have no detail, the Jaguar has clearly been the subject of a full restoration following its return to the UK. With a solid chassis, the car still looks very good, sporting a colour coordinated hood (fitted after its arrival in Jersey), complete and good condition brightwork, together with a set of chrome wire wheels (standard fitment to the Special Equipment model). One noticeable negative is the Old English White paintwork which has traces of micro blistering - a fault usually attributed to moisture in the paint from the air compressor not having a dryer at the time of application. It is a good looking car otherwise. **Mechanical** In addition to the uprated 5-speed gearbox, the Jaguar has been fitted with disc brakes at the front. During its time in Jersey it has received an electric cooling fan, all front suspension bushes replaced and, most recently, a new waterpump and battery. Having been the recipient of routine service and maintenance work, the XK140 runs and drives very well. **Interior** The red leather interior and matching carpets are in very good condition as is the dashboard, walnut veneer work and steering wheel. A Becker Europa radio is fitted and the Jaguar has seat belts. Asking Price £ 69,950 History Following the success of the Jaguar XK120 introduced in 1948, the uprated XK140 was made available 6 years later, using the same William Heynes designed, 3.4 litre XK double overhead camshaft straight 6 engine, but with the Special Equipment modifications from the XK120 as standard, raising claimed power to 190 bhp at 5500 rpm (up by 10 bhp on the earlier model). Visually, the XK140 looked very similar to the superseded model, but the cockpit was enlarged to make it more comfortable and provide more legroom – without any change to the wheelbase. Other improvements were made to suspension and steering. Externally, the changes were limited, most obviously a little more chrome trim, a revised grille, separate flashing indicators at the front and larger bumpers front and rear, fitted with overriders. The XK140SE (Special Equipment) was available with an optional C-type cylinder head, larger carburettors and twin exhaust pipes, providing a healthy boost in claimed power to 210 bhp at 5750 rpm. Roadtests of the time successfully bettered 120mph in top speed and achieved standing 1/4 mile times of a little under 17 seconds. Production of the XK140 ended in early 1957 by which time, 8937 had been built. Contributing to this total, 2790 were DHC models, with the majority being left hand drive, export cars. This particular XK140 SE – a LHD export model – was built in 1955 and was shipped to Los Angeles, USA, where it was sold through the Hornburg dealership. Production records show it was Pastel Green with a green interior. We know very little of its early history in the USA. Having been repatriated in 1998, it was offered for sale through Retro Classics, London, showing 93,500 miles and in Old English White with Biscuit trim and Fawn hood. It was re-registered in the UK (with an age-related number – WSJ 731) in December of that year. In January 2008, the Jaguar was for sale through Bristol Classic & Sports Cars and, at this point, we know it had been converted to right hand drive; had a 5-speed gearbox fitted and the trim changed for a deep red colour. Following a further short period of UK ownership, the XK140 was purchased by a Jersey based enthusiast in 2011, imported and re-registered in the island in March 2012 with 5,300 miles showing. It has subsequently led a well-cared for life, gently adding to the recorded mileage.