Highlights

- Desirable MC Roadster with C-Type Head
- Optioned with Lucas Driving Lamps, Wire Wheels, and Dual Exhaust
- Matching Numbers Confirmed by Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate

Overview

Among the most enjoyable classic sports cars of the 1950’s, the XK series Jaguars remain among the finest examples of sports car motoring and touring elegance. Though more than 70 years have lapsed since their arrival, their beauty and performance still compel collectors and enthusiasts to seek out the very best examples available today.

The first of the series, the XK120 earned its name with120 mph performance at a surprisingly affordable price. By 1955, the XK140 arrived, offering notable improvements including more legroom, increased horsepower, rack and pinion steering, telescoping shock absorbers, and improved brakes. Coupe, drophead coupe, and roadster versions were available with a range of performance options. Today, the roadster is the most sought after, in part for their beautifully proportioned open body design featuring uncluttered, race-inspired appearance with performance to match. Rare in number due to the added cost option, the desirable MC option included Lucas road lamps, wire wheels, dual exhaust, and the twin-cam engine was fitted with a C-Type head. This unique performance head was painted red in the cam valley and cast with a “C” denoting the special designation. These factory improvements gave the engine a 210hp output and dramatically increased performance.

According to the Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate documenting this car, this XK140 was built April 18, 1955, and dispatched to Hoffman Motor Car Co., New York, NY April 27, 1955. Finished in Battleship Grey with red interior, this car was designated at the factory as a “Special Equipment Model”. The matching C-Type head and engine block numbers are stamped from the factory with the corresponding G-3225-8S stamped on the forward cam valley, “C” designation casting on the head, a corresponding matching number stamped on the engine block, and the same number also stamped on the chassis plate.

Under current ownership this Jaguar has been regularly serviced including tending to all fluids and filters, updating various items as needed including brakes, hydraulic systems, and carburetor adjustments. In 2015 the engine and transmission were removed and the overdrive unit serviced, clutch and flywheel inspected, and adjustments made as needed. In June 2024, a general service was performed including all fluids, filters, and the installation of new brake wheel cylinders.

With consummate care and excellent presentation, this XK140 presents today with excellent cosmetics throughout. The paintwork displays a consistent finish with no significant flaws to detract from the stunning lines. The white finish contrasts handsomely with plated and polished wire wheels and chrome dual-ear knock offs. The body is straight with excellent panel fit and smooth operation from all opening features. The headlights and Lucas fog lamps accent the dynamic front fascia, with correct emblems, lettering, lenses, and trim in very nice condition. In all, the exterior presentation is very cohesive and well balanced, a tribute to the ongoing care, and attention to detail, prepared under current ownership.

The interior offers a satisfying and authentic finish to the lightly relaxed red leather surfaces, delivering an inviting and comfortable impression in the gently settled seats. The carpet remains in very good condition, while the door trim and perimeter cowl material are nicely matched. Overall, the interior is properly presented for the enthusiast who enjoys authentic vehicles that can be enjoyably driven. The black canvas top is in excellent condition, appearing essentially unused yet properly stitched to allow a taut fit to the delicate chrome trimmed windscreen.

The engine compartment is properly prepared and very attractive with some allowances for modern materials and hardware. The matching numbers engine block and correctly finished red C-Type head benefit from recent service and proper detailing including just the right level of alloy polish to the carburetor housings and cam covers. The finishes on the engine are nicely detailed, though not overly done to the point where one might refrain from driving the car. The trunk is fully trimmed in red vinyl mat and red panels, housing a full-sized painted wire wheel spare tire, jack, a set of tools in a tool roll, a grease gun, and the rear fender spat key. The undercarriage is in excellent condition with attention to detail, upgraded with stainless steel exhaust and Spax shock absorbers

Beautifully finished and correctly prepared this Jaguar also offers very satisfying driving manners. The recently tuned engine purrs smoothly and revs responsively with strong acceleration attributed to the added horsepower from the C-Type head and dual exhaust. The interior is roomier than earlier 120 models with more legroom for shifting, more comfortable seating for driver and passenger, and welcomed arm spacing from the steering wheel to the seatback, allowing for a more relaxed driving position. The chassis and suspension are well-suited to a range of driving conditions from club rallies to longer distance events, and the recently serviced brakes perform quite well, tracking evenly down from higher speeds on a tall pedal. The clutch and gearbox operate smoothly with the added benefit of overdrive for longer highway adventures.

This Jaguar represents the ideal opportunity to acquire a genuine, matching numbers XK140 MC Roadster with capable driving manners and attractive cosmetics. Lovingly enjoyed and carefully serviced by Jaguar experts, this XK140 Roadster is ready to deliver on all the promises of nostalgic sports car motoring, rewarding attendance at Jaguar club shows, and welcomed participation in vintage touring events.

Please contact Jason at +1-206-355-7727 for more information on this vehicle.