Jaguar XK140 DHC RHD 1955 – For Sale

This Jaguar XK140 Drophead Coupé is an original UK right-hand-drive car. Dispatched in April 1955, its first owner was John H. Rossly Smith of Folkestone, Kent. The car still wears its original Kent registration number, VKJ 700, and comes with a substantial history file, including details of its restoration and a continuation buff logbook dating back to 1961.

In March 1961, the car's registered keeper was Graduate Cars of Birmingham, and the tax discs show it was still in Birmingham in October 1962, possibly remaining in the hands of the same dealer. In February 1963, the car was purchased by Edward Gurney of Evesham, who retained ownership until mid-1965. It then passed to T. A. Cooper, followed by Leslie Noden later that same year, before being acquired by Joseph Edward Carr, who owned the car for several years. In 1969, the XK was purchased by Ian Moore, who appears to have been responsible for preserving and ultimately restoring the car.

Mr Moore owned the XK140 for some 37 years, during which time he undertook a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration. The work began in 1990 and took approximately 15 years to complete. The car was stripped back to a bare chassis and thoroughly rebuilt, including a full engine overhaul. The restoration was carried out to a very high standard, and the car has been carefully maintained since, including a further engine rebuild in 2010. The car was also tastefully upgraded in the late 2000s, including an electric cooling fan, header tank, disc brakes and upgraded suspension.

Finished in Dark Blue with a Red interior, this XK140 is very nicely presented. Retaining its original steel wheels and spats, it perfectly captures the elegance of 1950s motoring. As the vast majority of XK models are now fitted with chrome wire wheels, this car stands out from the crowd. Having been restored over two decades ago the paint does show its age in a few places but overall it remains in lovely condition. Inside, bucket-back seats and seat belts make it a comfortable and practical classic for longer journeys.

Out on the road, the XK140 has delightful manners. The engine is smooth and torquey, delivering its power in a refined and dignified manner. The Moss gearbox is highly rewarding once familiar, while the overdrive allows effortless cruising at modern motorway speeds. The suspension is compliant without feeling soft, providing excellent comfort on longer journeys while remaining engaging on twisting B-roads. A truly delightful touring car.

£92,750