1953 Jaguar XK-120 SE 3.4 OTS

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Description

This 1953 Jaguar XK120 SE Roadster is a well maintained example with a good history of long-term ownership by a dedicated Southern California Jaguar collector, and member of a prominent Jaguar Club. Finished in a classic presentation, the car has been well cared for and thoughtfully upgraded, making it a very nice XK-120 driver. Notable features include Wilwood front disc brakes for improved stopping power, a new 12 volt battery, a spare tire, a dual exhaust system, recent servicing and a California black plate. The car is also equipped with a tonneau cover and remains in good mechanical and cosmetic condition, ready to be driven and enjoyed today!

History

In 1951 the ‘SE’ spec was introduced. In American markets it was called "MC" to note the car used the high-performance cylinder heads from the Jaguar C-Type Le Mans race car, along with largely SU carburetors, and dual exhaust pipes offering a power boost to 210 bhp at 5,750 rpm. Power was increased from 160 bhp to 190 bhp and wire wheels added to provide better cooling for the drum brakes. The optional ‘C’-Type head upped the power output even further to an estimated 210 bhp. During the Second World War, William Lyons and his staff designed what would be the world’s first high-volume twin cam engine. After the war, a short wheelbase chassis and a two-seat sports body were married to this new engine and when the XK 120 was introduced at the 1948 Earl’s Court Motor Show. The XK 120’s body was a fresh, minimalist design with gracefully flowing curves running front to back, while the modern chassis design provided excellent handling. The XK inline six-cylinder engine, originally producing 160 horsepower, was mated with a four-speed manual transmission, and provided phenomenal performance. The XK 120 earned its name from when Jaguar was racing their cars. The car reached 120 mph!