The 1951 Jaguar XK-Series XK 120 remains one of the most significant sports cars ever built in Great Britain. This roadster model arrived at a time when speed and beauty were rarely found in such perfect harmony. It serves as a benchmark for post-war performance and continues to captivate collectors with its fluid lines.
Body-Off Restoration and Exterior Details
This specific vehicle underwent a meticulous body-off restoration at Pollack Auto Restoration in Pennsylvania. The technicians stripped the body to bare metal before applying the crisp white finish seen today. Black paint protects the frame, while the exterior retains its classic split windshield and rear wheel spats. These details ensure the 1951 Jaguar XK-Series XK 120 looks exactly as it did when leaving the factory.
Classic Red Leather and Interior Design
The cabin features a striking red leather interior that provides a bold contrast to the white bodywork. Matching red leather extends across the door panels and the padded dashboard for a cohesive look. Smiths instrumentation provides the driver with vital data, including a unique reverse-sweep tachometer. A removable tan soft top offers protection from the weather while maintaining the elegant roadster silhouette.
Chassis Setup and Rolling Stock
The 1951 Jaguar XK-Series XK 120 sits on 16-inch steel wheels finished with Jaguar-logo hubcaps. These wheels are mounted with Michelin tires to provide a stable and comfortable ride during weekend tours. The suspension and braking systems were addressed during the restoration to ensure modern reliability. This setup preserves the engaging mechanical feel that made the car a legend on the racing circuit.
Instrumentation and Driver Controls
A 140-mph speedometer sits prominently in the dash to remind the driver of the car’s impressive capabilities. Every gauge has been refurbished to ensure clarity and accuracy during operation. The four-speed manual shifter offers a direct connection to the drivetrain for a truly analog experience. Consequently, the driver feels fully immersed in the operation of this vintage British machine.
Performance Specs and Engine Specifications
The heart of this 1951 Jaguar XK-Series XK 120 is its rebuilt 3.4-liter DOHC inline-six engine. This powerplant features dual SU carburetors and polished camshaft covers for an impressive under-hood presentation. It delivers roughly 160 horsepower, which was enough to make it the fastest production car of its era. The four-speed manual transmission handles the torque with precision, providing smooth shifts throughout the rev range.
Summary of the XK 120 Roadster
This roadster offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that is ready for both shows and the road. The extensive restoration work ensures that the mechanical and aesthetic components are in top-tier order. It represents the pinnacle of Jaguar’s early sports car efforts and remains an essential part of any serious collection. This XK 120 continues to stand as an enduring symbol of automotive elegance and speed.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
