Lot 153 - 1955 Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupé
| Lot Number | 153 |
| Registration | SON 225 |
| Chassis Number | 807279DN |
| Engine Number | G5112-8 |
| Odometer reading | 19,742 miles |
| Result | Sold - £91,840 |
- Subject to a stunning 17 year restoration
- Original matching numbers example
- Comprehensive history file from new
This car can be viewed in person from 14th to 18th July 2020 at our the auction site, Windsorview Lakes, Datchet, SL3 9HY
In 1954, the XK120 was superseded by the mechanically updated XK140 fitted with the more powerful 190bhp XK engine which had been used in the Special Equipment 120's. The new models were visually similar to their predecessors differing in external details only. The Fixedhead had an extended roof line and, together with the Drophead Coupé, was given two small extra seats in the rear suitable for children or adults for a short journey but they made the XK's a little more practical for the family man. Overdrive was now an optional extra and the car could be ordered with a C-Type head in which case power output was increased to 210bhp. The price of the roadster, all but a handful of which were exported, was now £1,127 (plus tax). The XK140's maintained the XK's popularity but very few found their way into competition although those that did performed well.
Offered for sale here is this stunning Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupé, first supplied on 1st December 1955 in Birmingham and sold through P J Evans. Fully restored over an incredible 17 year period by our vendor, the car retains its original matching numbers 3.4 litre straight six engine and four speed manual gearbox with overdrive. The interior has been fully re-trimmed in high quality ‘Nutmeg’ leather which suits the cream body and classic lines exquisitely.
Mechanically the car is as it left the factory bar a header tank to help with cooling and a brand new stainless steel exhaust. The vendor informs us that the car is a pleasure to drive, stating the gearbox gives smooth, slick changes and, even though almost 65 years old, the engine feels powerful and responsive even by today’s standards.
Accompanying this XK140 is an impressive history file containing receipts and invoices dating back to 1963, the green buff log book and all recent history together with the Heritage Certificate. The first owner of this example was a building merchants by the name of Biddle and Homer, in 1963 the car then passed to a Dr. Musson who decided he would prefer his Jaguar in British Racing Green, so had the car completely re-upholstered and resprayed. It was then sold to a Mr Binham of Bexley Heath in January of 1964 who kept the car for 28 years until 1992. It was then purchased by a Dr. S. Williams who only kept the car until the August of that year when our vendor purchased it from him. The history file is not only extensive but very interesting indeed.
This elegant and timeless Drophead Coupé is both show worthy and drivable in equal measures and represents all that is great about the classic British motorcar; a true gem and viewing is highly recommended.
The health and safety of both our customers and team remains the utmost priority, we are therefore operating to Government guidelines throughout viewing and auction day.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.