">
2015 Shannons Melbourne Spring Classic Auction
Lot
30

1955 Jaguar XK140 FHC

$125,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 6-cylinder, 3442cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Body Work Fixed-Head Coupé
Colour Ivory
Interior Red
Trim Leather
Wheels Steel Disc
Brakes Disc/Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

Built between 1954 and 1957, Jaguar's XK140 offers all the beauty, performance and luxury of the original legendary XK120 sports car with the added benefit of numerous improvements. These include a more powerful version of the legendary straight-six engine, rack and pinion steering and more cockpit room thanks to the relocated engine. With lines that can still take one's breath away, William Lyons' curvaceous styling was largely unchanged other than the addition of full-width bumpers and some additional brightwork. Once again, three different body styles were offered, including the luxurious drophead coupe, sporting roadster and practical fixed-head coupe as offered here, with just 2,808 of the latter produced, the majority destined for the American market, with only 843 built in right-hand drive guise. The XK140 is a real thoroughbred, powered by one of the most remarkable engines ever built and remains a delight to drive even in modern traffic thanks to the ample torque from the 3.4-litre straight six. Developing 190 horsepower at 5500 rpm in standard form and with 210 lbs/ft of torque on tap, the XK unit propelled the 140 to a top speed of 120mph, while cars fitted with the C-type cylinder head were capable of even higher speeds. The gearbox was a four-speed manual unit with 3.19:1 overdrive optional, as designated by the 'DN' suffix on the chassis number. Jaguar's XK sports cars have always been amongst the most sought after 1950s sports cars, offering stunning looks, performance and style at a price that seems downright affordable when compared with more exclusive rivals like Aston Martin. The XK140 combines the purity of the original XK120's stunning lines with numerous improvements that make the model easier to live with day to day.