One of the more historically significant restoration projects currently underway at Classic Showcase is this exceptionally original 1953 Jaguar XK120 Special Equipment Roadster. Accompanied by its Jaguar Heritage Certificate and retaining its matching-numbers engine and major components, the car remained in the care of two prominent Jaguar collectors for decades, both of whom placed a strong emphasis on preserving its originality. Built on November 24, 1953, the XK120 was dispatched through the legendary Max Hoffman dealership in New York before being delivered to its first owner in Columbus, Ohio.

Today, this rare XK120 is undergoing a comprehensive body-off restoration to concours-level standards. The project recently reached an important milestone as the coachwork was separated from the chassis, allowing our restoration team to begin the detailed process of evaluating, restoring, and refinishing each component to the highest possible standard. Simultaneously, work continues throughout multiple departments, including the ongoing engine rebuild and preparation of numerous mechanical and cosmetic systems that will eventually come together during final assembly.

Upon completion, the XK120 will be finished in an elegant silver exterior complemented by a Suede Green interior, along with a black hood and tonneau cover. Chrome Dayton wire wheels fitted with Vredestein tires will complete the presentation, creating a striking appearance that remains faithful to the character and spirit of Jaguar's legendary sports car. The upholstery department has already completed the restoration of the seats, providing an early glimpse of the craftsmanship that will define the finished automobile.

With its remarkable provenance, documented history, and high level of originality, this XK120 represents the type of restoration project that rarely becomes available. As work continues, we look forward to sharing additional milestones and progress updates on this exciting restoration in our Fall 2026 newsletter!

XK-120 model 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!