Lot 160 - 1955 Jaguar XK140 SE Roadster
| Lot Number | 160 |
| Registration | NRW 759 |
| Chassis Number | S800020 |
| Engine Number | G 2193-8S |
| Odometer reading | 62,311 miles |
| Estimate | £130,000 - £155,000 |
- One of only 16 SE models in righthand drive format
- Thought to be the first XK140 SE manufactured
- Low mileage example
This car can be viewed in person from 14th to 18th July 2020 at our the auction site, Windsorview Lakes, Datchet, SL3 9HY
The Jaguar XK140 was manufactured between 1954 and 1957 with some 3,276 lefthand drive OTS (open two-seater) models predominantly destined for America and a mere 73 left for the rest of us. It was the successor to Jaguar's highly successful XK120. Upgrades included better brakes, rack and pinion steering, increased suspension travel and modern tube type shock absorbers instead of the older lever arm design. The primary visual change however was the more substantial front and rear bumpers and larger overriders. Another new feature was modern flashing turn signals, operated by a separate switch on the dash. The twin amber lights positioned above the front bumper helped to distinguish the XK140. The front grille size stayed the same but became a one piece cast unit with fewer, thicker vertical slats. The Jaguar badge was fitted to the grille itself, rather than being mounted between the grille and bonnet as on the XK120. A chrome trim strip also extended back over the bonnet and at the rear, continued down the centre of the boot lid, where it contained a red shield with the words ‘Winner Le Mans 1951–3’ inscribed in gold.
This fabulous XK140 SE is one of the extremely few righthand drive examples and, as confirmed by the chassis number of S800020, this is a very early example. Of the 73 righthand units produced only 16 were of the SE (Special Equipment) derivative. It is thought this is the first SE to roll off the Browns Lane production line and that there is only one XK140 older than this one. Manufactured on 1st March 1955 and despatched on 22nd March 1955, this Jaguar was originally destined for New Delhi, India, although it is thought the car was one of only 42 that stayed in the UK from the outset and the registration mark of NRW 759 was issued in Coventry. A great history folder accompanies this outstanding car and the history together with a fine collection of previous MoT test certificates confirming the mileage of 62,311 to be correct. Finished in Old English White with red leather interior and sitting proudly on chrome wire wheels this Jaguar XK140 SE Roadster needs to be viewed to be fully appreciated.
A very original example, although the colour has been changed, every body panel appears to be the ones on the car from new and the car is a matching numbers example. Supplied with a V5C registration document and the original buff logbook this a great opportunity to purchase one of Coventry’s finest and rarest Jaguars.
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.