1953 Jaguar XK120 Roadster

The Jaguar XK120 is a sports car which was manufactured by Jaguar between 1948 and 1954. It was launched in roadster form at the 1948 London Motor Show as a test bed and show car for the new Jaguar XK engine. It caused a sensation. So much so that it persuaded Jaguar founder and design boss William Lyons to put it into production.The "120" in its name referred to its 120 mph top speed which made the XK120 the world's fastest standard production car at the time of its launch. Success in motor racing secured the cars future and an icon was born. Today, Jaguar XKs, and particularly 120s, remain much sought after with the Roadsters in particular carrying a premium over the Drophead and Fixedhead coupés.

This 1953 Jaguar XK120 Roadster was first despatched to the Chas. Hornburg Jaguar dealership, Los Angeles on 2nd April 1953. It has had a total of three owners, sits on steel wheels with spats and still wears its California 'black plate'.

A Jaguar Heritage certificate confirms that the 3.4 engine is matching numbers and that the car is an original left-hand drive example. Extensive receipts document maintenance going back to 1959, with period invoices and letters between previous owners. This example was the subject of an older restoration that has stood the test of time. There is no evidence of corrosion and the paintwork, chrome and interior are all in good condition. The engine maintains a healthy oil pressure and significant torque is delivered with ease. The previous owner only covered 2,000 miles in the car since 1982 and this would explain why the car remains in such fine overall condition.

All EU taxes and duties have been paid and there are recent bills for recent works carried out in February 2013. A recent tonneau cover, side screens and wet weather gear can be found in the boot.

This is a genuine three-owner California car and has one of the most extensive history files we have ever seen on an XK Jaguar. Finished in the fashionable colour combination of white with tan leather interior, there are very few cars that can boast such an extensive and privileged history as chassis number 673820.