Lot 160 - 1954 Jaguar XK120 Roadster ‘Fast road’
| Lot Number | 160 |
| Registration | VXS 459 |
| Chassis Number | 672849 |
| Engine Number | W5973-8 |
| Odometer reading | 30 miles |
| Estimate | £73,000 - £83,000 |
- Beautifully restored with full all-weather gear
- Guy Broad engine and gearbox
If it were me, I’d want my engine and gearbox built by Guy Broad. One of the unassailable leaders in the XK field. Indeed, any car with a service history or works undertaken by this company will certainly command a premium. It is little surprise that this company has formed part of the development of these cars over the years and significant paperwork exist here to support the works undertaken for this one specifically. It also has an automatic choke and 2” twin SU carburettors set-up by Alto at A.J. Coachworks and then fitted with an additional aluminium radiator, installed to assist cooling.
The Malcolm Sayer-designed body panels complemented by the glorious, race-proven, six-cylinder power plant form a glorious symphony when driven on the open road and XK’s were often taken to the next level by their owners looking for that extra performance and the look and feel of their racing siblings.
‘Bare metal restoration’ does not describe this example correctly. Yes, it has been taken back to bare metal and repainted in Royal Blue with a contrasting red and tan leather interior and a black mohair hood and complementary weather equipment but the bonnet also now benefits from additional cooling in the form of louvres pressed expertly into the panel as per the original 1950/1951 Alpine Rally/1951 RAC Rally XK120 ‘NUB 120’. A leather bonnet strap has been added and as well as standard headlamps, the addition of rally spotlights. Additionally, a Le Mans style fuel filler cap can be found to the rear and this beautifully-built roadster now sits on 16” chrome wire wheels and new tyres. Unfortunately, the engine is non-matching although performance remains unchanged but is now mated to a Guy Broad five-speed gearbox and with 8bhp added to the power output by the fitting of a big bore, stainless steel exhaust and stainless-steel fittings throughout. A superb example well put together and embodying much of the thinking behind the racing cars of yesteryear.
Great consideration has also gone into the comfort and usability of this motorcar to the extent that the footwell on both sides has been extended by 6” into the bulkhead to accommodate those slightly taller drivers and their passengers. In addition, the two 6V battery boxes in the boot have been combined freeing up one battery box to be upholstered throughout for valuables etc.
Originally left hand drive, this genuinely quick example is offered now with more than a nod to modern motoring and encompasses exciting elements to provide a beautiful and utterly bespoke Jaguar XK120 roadster.
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.