Jaguar XK140 OTS 1956 – For Sale

This Jaguar XK140 Open Two Seater was originally supplied new to the USA as a left-hand drive car, built in March 1956 and dispatched to New York. It later returned to the UK, where it was converted to right-hand drive during restoration and has remained on British roads ever since.

In 2004–2005 the car was treated to a comprehensive, nut-and-bolt restoration here at Twyford Moors. Built with fast road driving very much in mind, the XK was upgraded to a high and carefully considered specification. The engine was rebuilt to fast road specification and paired with a T5 five-speed gearbox. A pedal box was installed to improve driving position and legroom, along with a hydraulic clutch and dual-circuit braking system. Front disc brakes were fitted, and the suspension was completely rebuilt using polyurethane bushes, an uprated anti-roll bar and adjustable dampers. Cooling was improved with the addition of an electric fan and aluminium expansion tank, while further upgrades include an alternator, electronic ignition and a solid-state fuel pump.

Since leaving our care, the car has enjoyed extremely conscientious ownership. In the hands of its most recent custodian, no expense has been spared on maintenance, with the car continually improved and sympathetically refreshed. Cosmetically, the XK has benefited from extensive rechroming, the fitment of a set of chrome wire wheels, and a professional detail followed by ceramic coating to the paintwork, leaving it looking exceptionally sharp.

Finished in classic British Racing Green with a Biscuit and Green two-tone interior and matching green wet weather equipment, the car presents beautifully. The overall appearance is purposeful and evocative, with period motorsport cues including a louvred bonnet, bonnet strap and Le Mans-style fuel filler. As expected from one of our restorations, it remains a very striking car even two decades on.

On the road, the upgrades work in harmony to deliver a deeply rewarding driving experience. The car feels lively and engaging without ever being uncompromising. The five-speed gearbox transforms usability, offering crisp changes when pressing on and relaxed cruising at motorway speeds. The fast road engine delivers strong, flexible torque, allowing brisk progress without the need for constant high revs. Steering and brakes are confidence-inspiring, providing excellent feedback and control. This is a car that feels equally at home on a spirited cross-country run, a long motorway journey or a track day, before being driven home again with ease.

Finding an XK140 OTS in this condition, with this level of sympathetic upgrading and ongoing care, is increasingly rare. Regularly serviced and maintained to a very high standard, and with well-fitting wet-weather gear, this is a genuinely usable and highly capable classic Jaguar. A true driver’s car, offering character, performance and usability in equal measure, and one that never fails to raise a smile behind the wheel.

£95,000